smart / LEVC — Geely Holding — Who's really behind Chinese cars

"smart," lowercase; LEVC spelled out letter by letter.

niche brands of the group

Today's smart is a joint venture between Geely and Mercedes-Benz AG: the Chinese side handles manufacturing and investment, the German side the design language and premium positioning inherited from the original European smart. LEVC, maker of London's iconic black cabs, came under Geely's control back in 2012 and has since served as a technology platform for the group's hybrid commercial-vehicle work.

Distinguishing feature

smart is a rare case of an equal alliance rather than an acquisition: German design and reputation combined with Chinese manufacturing and speed to market.