More good news about Zhongxing (ZX Auto). Production of the Urban Ark has begun, it will be launched on the Chinese car market in June. The Urban Ark debuted as two-concepts on the 2012 Beijing Auto Show, price will start around 60.000 yuan.

Zhongxing calls the Urban Ark, which is by far the best English name for a Chinese car we have heard so far, an ‘AUV’, which stands for ‘Activity Utility Vehicle’.

Power comes from a Mitsubishi-sourced 1.5 liter gasoline engine, good for 104hp and 141nm, mated to a 5-speed manual sending power to the front wheels. Size: 4120/1761/1645mm wheelbase is 2500mm. The Zhongxing Urban Ark will compete with fine vehicles such as the Great Wall Haval M4, the Jonway A380 and the Lifan X60.

Zhongxing is well-known for its cheap SUV’s and pickup trucks, but the brand is brand-new in passenger cars. The Urban Ark however seems cool enough, by name alone, to make a start.

Jeep-like dashboard with a many round shape, check screen in center console.

An uphill challenge…