(AP) - THE CARMAKERS: Two years ago, a lone Geely Automobile Co. sedan marked the first time a Chinese automaker displayed at the North American International Auto Show. This year, four Chinese automakers and an importer have displays, and interest is increasing in cracking the lucrative U.S. market.
CONSUMER CONCERNS: 2007 was a year where toys made with lead paint and tainted toothpaste fueled distrust about the 'Made in China' label. Companies that sell China-made cars in the U.S. will need to make sure their vehicles are well-built, and they must ease potential consumer worries.
THE OUTLOOK: Chinese companies and those working with them to import cars recognize the importance of getting it right when selling to U.S. drivers. Japanese and South Korean companies faced similar quality concerns in their earlier days in the U.S.
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