Cheap Chinese cars

Two models of Fulu cars went on sale this month in Costa Rica, at prices thousands of dollars less than the next cheapest brand.

In Costa Rica, the vehicles sell for $9,000 and $7,000, respectively.

However, Costa Rica charges import duties on cars of as much as 50% of their value, which makes them more expensive than in other countries.

In Peru, the other Latin American country which sells Fulus, the price for the more expensive model is only $6,000.

The Fula brand belongs to Shandong Jindalu Vehicle Co., Ltd, which also makes 3-wheel cars, electric cars and cargo tricycles.

The automobiles, described by the company as a mini-car has its limitations, including that of being under-powered.

The motor of the bigger of the two models has a displacement of 600 cc., and produces a top speed of only 50 kilometers por hora.

The smaller one displaces150 cc, less than that of many motorcycles.

Still, both are sedans, with room for four passengers.

Another challenge for Fulu, is convincing buyers, who have never heard of the brand, that parts and maintenance for its cars will be available in the future.

On the other hand, the price is right.

As such, the region could be a fertile ground for Fulu and other Chinese vehicles, bringing personal transportation within the reach of millions of consumers.