Gonow (officially Zhejiang Gonow Auto Co., Ltd.) is a Chinese manufacturer of automobiles, commercial vehicles and SUV's headquartered in Taizhou, Zhejiang and a subsidiary of GAC Group. It markets its products under the brand name GAC Gonow in China and as Gonow in other markets. The brand was discontinued in 2016. Starting in 2009, Gonow vehicles were exported to Italy and registered as commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes.
History
Founded on 27 September 2003, in Taizhou, Zhejiang, the company occupied a 268,000 m2 Campus. Production launched with the Gonow AGE, with an initial production of 60,000 units. Gonow spent 351.5 million RMB expanding its grounds by 100 acres, and production was increased to 200,000 units per year. Gonow partnered with Wuhan University of Technology, taking over construction of the Gonow Automobile R&D Center.
In 2006, Gonow entered the European Union market, in a joint venture with the Italian company DR Motor Company SpA. Two SUV models were produced under license, and were marketed under the brand name Katay Gonow.
On 24 October 2010, Gonow was the first Chinese car to score points in a FIA world championship, with its Italian Team Sonia Ielo – Francesca Olivoni taking 8th place in the Ecorally San Marino – Vatican City of the FIA Alternative Energies Cup.[1]