(File photo of a Hover CUV at an auto show. Photo: hexun.com)

Star Daily, a Beijing-based newspaper, reported 500 Hover CUVs produced by Great Wall Motor Company Limited of China were exported to Italy on Monday.

It is the first time Chinese cars have been exported to western European countries.

After participating at the 30th International Auto Exhibition held in Italy last December, Great Wall Company received a booking of 500 Hover CUVs from Italy.

The overseas department of Great Wall Company said the small number of exported cars are a boon to both the company and the Chinese automobile industry. It heralds the beginning of Chinese car exports to Europe and North America.

Equipped with a Mitsubishi 4G 64 engine and comprehensive safety systems, the CUV meets Euro-III emissions and safety standards, satisfying European market requirements.

The company's vehicles underwent collision experiments with Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program) standards in March, resulting in an excellent four-star class performance.

In addition to a high-quality engine in the Hover CUV, produced by the German Bolsch Company, Great Wall Company meets various international standards.

Sources says Great Wall Company's cars will be on display at an auto exhibition in Paris in September to represent China after the Moscow auto exhibition.

Great Wall Company has exported its cars to over 100 countries and regions, mainly in Africa, the Middle East, Central and South America, the Caribbean, middle Asia, southeast Asia, Russia and eastern European countries.

Up until the end of August, Great Wall Motor Company Limited has received overseas bookings for 243,000 cars and has exported 226,000 cars. A total of 80% of them are whole vehicles, rising 128% year on year.

Great Wall Company has become a famous Chinese brand, accounting for the largest export output and most export values of all Chinese companies.

The general manager of Great Wall Automobile Company, Wang Fengying, said improving overseas service is necessary for Chinese brands aiming to build an respected reputation.