In China, not too long ago, auto dealers enjoy record sales for their luxury models but that soon changed recently. A maturing market and stiff competition has dropped sales level to an all time low and many of these dealers have resorted by offering consumers huge discounts.

But a Chinese auto dealer, Zhongsheng Group, has come up with a rather unique way to help them sell more cars and that is to buy a majority stake in the famous German tuning company, Carlsson.

If you are a Mercedes Benz fan, you would be familiar with the name Carlsson. A little history about the company before I continue with the article.

Carlsson Autotechnik is a tuning and aftermarket parts company that specialises in Mercedes Benz vehicles. The company was started by two brothers, Rolf and Andreas Hartge, and the company name honours the Swedish rally driver, Ingvar Carlsson, who raced for the Mercedes Rally Team during the 1980s. They make parts for virtually every Mercedes Benz model, including the Mercedes Benz Vito.

Zhongsheng Group has bought a 70 percent stake in the company for an undisclosed amount and they intend to use Carlsson