Lenovo launches PCs in local market

The first models of portable and desktop computers from Lenovo Group Ltd (聯想) finally made their official appearance in the local market yesterday.

The world's third-largest computer maker brought in three notebooks and one desktop under the "Lenovo" logo, including a dual-core Napa laptop with the lowest price in the local market.

"Following the transition period of the merger last year, we are now eyeing more growth in Taiwan and other global markets," said Laurence Hwang (黃維德), general manager of Lenovo Technology BV Taiwan Branch.

Lenovo Group acquired IBM's ailing PC unit last May and inherited its Think brand. In late February, the Chinese firm made its first forays outside China, selling computer products carrying the "Lenovo" logo.

"Launching competitive products will help us create strong brand awareness for the new Lenovo brand," Hwang said.

According to the company's notebook product manager Jeffrey Chow (周正平), the firm hopes Lenovo branded computers will account for at least 30 percent of local computer sales this year.

He refused to reveal the firm's sales targets for the new products.

The firm launched the Napa-based N100 series yesterday, starting at NT$39,900 (US$1,233). The Sonoma-based C100 series is priced starting at NT$29,900 and comes with a free Lenovo mobile phone.