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1 1,489 views Mar 11, 2009

Bitter’s only model, the Holden Statesman-based Vero saloon, has been criticized for its expensive price tag

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Small-scale German manufacturer 'Bitter' is known for making its own breed of custom cars based on vehicles from the GM stable. The company made a comeback last year with the release of the Vero saloon, which is based on the Aussie-made Holden Statesman and is sold in limited numbers throughout Europe.

Though exclusive and relatively unique, the Vero is a tad expensive at €121,975 considering the only changes to the donor car on which it’s based is a slightly revised exterior and dressed up cabin. Understandably, the cars have not been running out the door but to boost sales Bitter is reportedly planning a more affordable model.

Speaking with AutoWeek.nl, Erich Bitter, the man behind the automotive outfit, said there were plans for a new model to be called the Junior. Bitter had hoped to have the car ready for last week’s Geneva Motor Show but his team did not succeed in getting it ready. Instead, the Junior is now expected to appear at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Describing the car as a "compact roadster", the new Junior will keep Bitter’s ties with General Motors by sourcing its engine from the auto giant. It will be targeted at younger buyers and pricing is expected to fall around the €25,000 mark. If enough interest is garnered at the car’s Frankfurt unveiling, production will start before the end of the year.