| Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2018 |
| Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
| Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Basis of Presentation - For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries, which are described in Note 1. Significant inter-company balances and transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. Shenyang was formed in 2002, with 70% owned and controlled by the Company, and 30% owned by Shenyang Automotive Industry Investment Corporation, “JB Investment.” The highest authority of Shenyang is its board of directors, which is comprised of seven directors, four of whom, 57%, are appointed by the Company, and three of whom, 43%, are appointed by JB Investment. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by more than two-thirds of the members of such board of directors, 67%, is required. The chairman of the board of directors is appointed by the Company. In March 2003, the Company and Jinbei entered into an act-in-concert agreement, under which the directors appointed by Jinbei agree to act in concert with the directors appointed by the Company. As a result, the Company obtained control of Shenyang in March 2003. The general manager of Shenyang is appointed by the Company. USAI was formed in 2005. At December 31, 2018, 83.34% of USAI was owned by the Company, and 16.66% of USAI was owned by Hubei Wanlong Investment Inc., “Hubei Wanlong.” The highest authority USAI is its board of directors, which is comprised of three directors, two of whom, 67%, are appointed by the Company, one of whom, 33%, is appointed by Hubei Wanlong. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least two-thirds of the members of such board of directors is required. The chairman of such board of directors is appointed by the Company. The general manager of USAI is appointed by the Company. Jielong was formed in April 2006. As at December 31, 2018, 85% of Jielong was owned by the Company, and 15% of Jielong was owned by Hubei Wanlong. The highest authority of Jielong is its board of directors, which is comprised of three directors, two of whom, 67%, are appointed by the Company, and one of whom, 33%, is appointed by Hubei Wanlong. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least two-thirds of the members of such board of directors is required. Both the chairman of such board of directors and the general manager of Jielong are appointed by the Company. Wuhu was formed in May 2006, with 77.33% owned by the Company, and 22.67% owned by Wuhu Chery Technology Co., Ltd., “Chery Technology.” The highest authority of Wuhu is its board of directors, which is comprised of five directors, three of whom, 60%, are appointed by the Company, and two of whom, 40%, are appointed by Chery Technology. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least two-thirds of the members of such board of directors is required. The directors of the Company and Chery Technology executed an “Act in Concert” agreement, resulting in the Company having voting control in Wuhu. The chairman of such board of directors is appointed by the Company. The general manager of Wuhu is appointed by the Company. Chongqing Henglong was formed in 2012, with 70% owned by the Company and 30% owned by SAIC-IVECO. The highest authority of the Chongqing Henglong is its board of directors, which is comprised of five directors, three of whom, 60%, are appointed by the Company, and two of whom, 40%, are appointed by SAIC-IVECO. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least two-thirds of the members of such board of directors is required. In February 2012, the Company and SAIC-IVECO signed an “Act in Concert” agreement. According to the agreement, the directors appointed by SAIC-IVECO agreed to execute the “Act in Concert” agreement with the directors designated by the Company. The chairman of such board of directors and the general manager of Chongqing Henglong are both appointed by the Company. Brazil Henglong was formed in 2012, with 80% owned by the Company and 20% owned by Mr. Ozias Gaia Da Silva and Mr. Ademir Dal’ Evedove. In May 2017, the Company obtained an additional 15.84% equity interest in Brazil Henglong for nil consideration. The Company retained its controlling interest in Brazil Henglong and the acquisition of the non-controlling interest was accounted for as an equity transaction. After the acquisition, the Company owns 95.84% of Brazil Henglong’s shares. The highest authority of Brazil Henglong is its board of directors. In making operational decision, approval by voting rights representing at least 3/4 of the capital, 75%, is required and 95.84% of voting rights were owned by the Company. The chairman of such board of directors is appointed by the Company. The general manager is Mr. Ozias Gaia Da Silva. In 2014, Jielong formed a subsidiary, Wuhan Chuguanjie, with 85% owned by the Company and 15% owned by Hubei Wanlong. The highest authority of Wuhan Chuguanjie is its board of directors, which is comprised of three directors, two of whom, 67%, are appointed by the Company, and one of whom, 33%, is appointed by Hubei Wanlong. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least two-thirds of the members of such board of directors is required. Both of the chairman of such board of directors and the general manager of Chuguanjie are appointed by the Company. In November 2017, Hubei Henglong and other two parties established Jingzhou Qingyan. Hubei Honglong owns 60% of the shares of Jingzhou Qingyan and the remaining shares were owned by the other two parties. The highest authority of Jingzhou Qingyan is its board of directors, which is comprised of five directors, three of whom are appointed by the Company, and two of whom were appointed by the other two parties. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least three-fifths of the members of such board of directors is required. Both of the chairman of the board of directors and the general manager are appointed by the Company. In August 2018, Hubei Henglong and KYB established Henglong KYB. Hubei Honglong owns 66.6% of the shares of Henglong KYB and the remaining shares are owned by KYB. The highest authority of Henglong KYB is its board of directors, which is comprised of five directors, three of whom are appointed by the Company, and two of whom are appointed by KYB. As for day-to-day operating matters, approval by at least three-fifths of the members of such board of directors is required. The chairman of such board of directors is appointed by the Company and the general manager is appointed by KYB. |
| Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Use of Estimates - The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. The Company is of the opinion that the significant estimates related to valuation of long term assets and investment, the realizable value of accounts receivable and inventories, the accrual of warranty obligations and the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Actual results could differ from those estimates. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Cash and Cash Equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents include all highly-liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. |
| Pledged Cash Deposits [Policy Text Block] | Pledged Cash - Pledged as guarantee for the Company's notes payable and restricted to use. The Company regularly pays some of its suppliers by bank notes. The Company has to deposit a cash deposit, equivalent to 40%-100% of the face value of the relevant bank note, in order to obtain the bank note. |
| Short-term Investment [Policy Text Block] | Short-term Investments - Short-term investments are comprised of time deposits with terms of three months or more which are due within one year and wealth management financial products with maturities within one year. The carrying values of time deposits approximate fair value because of their short maturities. The interest earned is recognized in the consolidated statements of income over the contractual term of the deposits. The wealth management financial products are measured at fair value and classified as Level 3 within the fair value measurement hierarchy. Changes in the fair value are reflected in other income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income. |
| Premiums Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Estimation Methodology, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Allowance for Doubtful Accounts - In order to determine the value of the Company’s accounts receivable, the Company records a provision for doubtful accounts to cover estimated credit losses. Management reviews and adjusts this allowance periodically based on historical experience and its evaluation of the collectability of outstanding accounts receivable. The Company evaluates the credit risk of its customers utilizing historical data and estimates of future performance. |
| Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Inventories - Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Cost is calculated on the moving-average basis and includes all costs to acquire and other costs to bring the inventories to their present location and condition. The Company evaluates the net realizable value of its inventories on a regular basis and records a provision for loss to reduce the computed moving-average cost if it exceeds the net realizable value. |
| Advance Payments [Policy Text Block] | Advance Payments - These amounts represent advances to acquire various assets to be utilized in the future in the Company’s normal business operations, such as machine equipment, raw materials and technology. Such amounts are paid according to their respective contract terms. Advance payment for machinery and equipment is classified as advance payment for property, plant and equipment in the consolidated balance sheet and advance payment of raw materials and technology are classified as advance payments and others in the consolidated balance sheet. |
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Property, Plant and Equipment – Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Major renewals and improvements are capitalized; minor replacements and maintenance and repairs are charged to operations. Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets as follows: Category Estimated Useful Life (Years) Land use rights and buildings: Land use rights 45 -50 Buildings 25 Machinery and equipment 6 Electronic equipment 4 Motor vehicles 8 |
| Assets Under Construction [Policy Text Block] | Assets under Construction - represent buildings under construction and plant and equipment pending installation— are stated at cost. Cost includes construction and acquisitions, and interest charges arising from borrowings used to finance assets during the period of construction or installation and testing. No provision for depreciation is made on assets under construction until such time as the relevant assets are completed and ready for their intended commercial use. Gains or losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment are determined as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the relevant asset, and are recognized in the consolidated statements of income on the date of disposal. |
| Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Interest Costs Capitalized - Interest costs incurred in connection with borrowings for the acquisition, construction or installation of property, plant and equipment are capitalized and depreciated as part of the asset’s total cost when the respective asset is placed into service. Interest costs capitalized for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, were $0.7 million and $0.7 million, respectively. |
| Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Intangible Assets - Intangible assets, representing patents and technical know-how acquired, are stated at cost less accumulated amortization and impairment losses. Amortization is calculated on the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of 5 to 15 years. |
| Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Long-Lived Assets - The Company has adopted the provisions of ASC Topic 360 , “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” Property, plant and equipment and definite life intangible assets are reviewed periodically for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be fully recoverable. If required, an impairment loss is recognized as the difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the assets. In assessing long-lived assets for impairment, management considered the Company’s product line portfolio, customers and related commercial agreements, labor agreements and other factors in grouping assets and liabilities at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent. The Company considers projected future undiscounted cash flows, trends and other factors in its assessment of whether impairment conditions exist. Whilst the Company believes that its estimates of future cash flows are reasonable, different assumptions regarding such factors as future automotive production volumes, customer pricing, economics and productivity and cost saving initiatives, could significantly affect its estimates. In determining fair value of long-lived assets, management uses appraisals, management estimates or discounted cash flow calculations. |
| Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Long-term Investments – The Company’s long-term investments include investments in corporations and investments in limited partnerships. Investments in corporations which the Company has the ability to exert significant influence are accounted for using the equity method. Investments in limited partnerships which the Company has more than virtually no influence are accounted for using the equity method. The Company continually reviews its investment to determine whether a decline in fair value below the carrying value is other than temporary. The primary factors the Company considers in its determination are the length of time that the fair value of the investment is below the Company’s carrying value and the financial condition, operating performance and near term prospects of the investee. In addition, the Company considers the reason for the decline in fair value, including general market conditions, industry-specific or investee-specific reasons, changes in valuation subsequent to the balance sheet date and the Company’s intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for a recovery in fair value. If the decline in fair value is deemed to be other than temporary, the carrying value of the security is written down to fair value. There were no impairment losses for its long-term investment in the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. |
| Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] | Business Combinations – A business combination is recorded using the purchase method of accounting, and the cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the fair values at the date of exchange of the assets given, liabilities incurred and equity instruments issued as well as the contingent considerations and all contractual contingencies as of the acquisition date. The costs directly attributable to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired or assumed are measured separately at their fair value as of the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any non-controlling interests. The excess of (i) the total of consideration of acquisition, fair value of the non-controlling interests and acquisition date fair value of any previously held equity interest in the subsidiary acquired over (ii) the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the subsidiary acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the consideration of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized directly in the consolidated statements of income. |
| Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Revenue Recognition - On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASC Topic 606 “Revenue from Contracts with Customers”, and all related amendments, using the modified retrospective method applied to those contracts that were not completed as of January 1, 2018. Results for reporting periods beginning after January 1, 2018 are presented under Topic 606, while prior period amounts are not adjusted and continue to be reported in accordance with the Company’s historical accounting practices under ASC Topic 605 “Revenue Recognition”. Management has determined that the impact of the transition to the new standard is immaterial to the Company’s revenue recognition model since the vast majority of the Company’s revenue recognition is based on point in time transfer of control. Accordingly, the Company has not made any adjustment to opening retained earnings. Products sales to customers are made pursuant to master agreements entered into between the Company and its customers that provide for transfer of both title and risk of loss upon the Company’s delivery to the location specified in the contracts. The Company’s sales arrangements generally do not contain variable considerations and are short-term in nature. A period of credit term is granted to the customers after the delivery and before making payment. The Company recognizes revenue at a point in time based on management’s evaluation of when the customer obtains control of the products. Revenue is recognized when all performance obligations under the terms of a contract with the customer are satisfied and control of the product has been transferred to the customer. Sales of goods do not include multiple product and/or service elements. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration management expects the Company to receive in exchange for transferring goods pursuant to the contracts. Value-added tax that the Company collects concurrent with revenue-producing activities is excluded from revenue. Incidental contract costs that are not material in the context of the delivery of goods and services are recognized as expense. At the time revenue is recognized, allowances are recorded, with the related reduction to revenue, for estimated price discounts based upon historical experience and related terms of customer arrangements. Where the Company has offered product warranties, the Company also establishes liabilities for estimated warranty costs based upon historical experience and specific warranty provisions. Warranty liabilities are adjusted when experience indicates the expected outcome will differ from initial estimates of the liability. The Company treats shipping and handling fees as a fulfillment cost since control of the products is usually transferred to the customer after the delivery. Revenue Disaggregation Management has concluded that the disaggregation level is the same under both the revenue standard and the segment reporting standard. Revenue under the segment reporting standard is measured on the same basis as under the revenue standard, so management did not repeat the disaggregation of revenue under both standards. Contract Assets and Liabilities Contract assets, such as costs to obtain or fulfill contracts, are an insignificant component of the Company’s revenue recognition process. The majority of the Company’s cost of fulfillment as a manufacturer of products is classified as inventory, fixed assets and intangible assets, which are accounted for under the respective guidance for those asset types. Other costs of contract fulfillment are immaterial due to the nature of the Company’s products and their respective manufacturing processes. Contract liabilities are mainly customer deposits. Customer Deposits As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company has customer deposits of $0.8 million and $1.1 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2018, $2.5 million was received and $2.8 million was recognized as net product sales revenue. Customer deposits represent non-refundable cash deposits for customers to secure rights to an amount of products produced by the Company under supply agreements. When the products are shipped to customers, the Company will recognize revenue and bill the customers to reduce the amount of the customer deposit liability. Practical Expedient and Exemptions The Company does not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for contracts with an original expected length of one year or less. The Company does not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component since the Company expects, at contract inception, that the period between when the Company transfers promised goods to the customers and when the customers pay for the goods will be within one year. |
| Government Contractors, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Government Subsidies - The Company’s PRC based subsidiaries received government subsidies according to related policy from local government. The Company’s government subsidies consisted of specific subsidies and other subsidies. Specific subsidies are the subsidies that the Chinese government has specified its purpose for, such as product development and renewal of production facilities. Other subsidies are the subsidies that the Chinese government has not specified its purpose for and are not tied to future trends or performance of the Company; receipt of such subsidy income is not contingent upon any further actions or performance of the Company and the amounts do not have to be refunded under any circumstances. The Company recorded specific purpose subsidies as advances payable when received. For specific purpose subsidies, upon government acceptance of the related project development or asset acquisition, the specific purpose subsidies are recognized to reduce related R&D expenses or cost of asset acquisition. The unspecific purpose subsidies are recognized as other income upon receipt as further performance by the Company is not required. |
| Regulatory Income Taxes, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Sales Taxes - The Company is subject to value added tax, “VAT.” The applicable VAT tax rate is 16% for products sold in the PRC. Products exported overseas are exempted from VAT. The amount of VAT liability is determined by applying the applicable tax rate to the invoiced amount of goods sold less VAT paid on purchases made with the relevant supporting invoices. VAT is collected from customers by the Company on behalf of the PRC tax authorities and is therefore not charged to the consolidated statements of income. |
| Income Tax Uncertainties, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Uncertain Tax Positions - In order to assess uncertain tax positions, the Company applies a more likely than not threshold and a two-step approach for tax position measurement and financial statement recognition. For the two-step approach, the first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely to be realized upon settlement. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company has no uncertain tax positions. |
| Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] | Product Warranties - The Company provides for the estimated cost of product warranties when the products are sold. Such estimates of product warranties were based on, among other things, historical experience, product changes, material expenses, service and transportation expenses arising from the manufactured product. Estimates will be adjusted on the basis of actual claims and circumstances. For the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, the warranties activities were as follows (figures are in thousands of USD): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 Balance at the beginning of year $ 29,033 $ 26,225 Additions during the year 24,102 23,354 Settlement within the year (20,599 ) (22,034 ) Foreign currency translation (1,451 ) 1,488 Balance at end of year $ 31,085 $ 29,033 |
| Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Pensions, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Pension - Most of the operations and employees of the Company are located in China. The Company records pension costs and various employment benefits in accordance with the relevant Chinese social security laws, which is approximately at a total of 30% of base salary as required by local governments. Base salary levels are the average salary determined by the local governments. |
| Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Concentration of Credit Risk - Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of trade accounts receivable. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations with respect to the financial condition of its debtors, but does not require collateral. In order to determine the value of the Company’s accounts receivable, the Company records a provision for doubtful accounts to cover probable credit losses. Management reviews and adjusts this allowance periodically based on historical experience and its evaluation of the collectability of outstanding accounts receivable. |
| Interest Rate Risk [Policy Text Block] | Interest Rate Ri sk - As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company had bank loans of nil and $20.6 million, respectively, which were charged at floating interest rates. The remaining bank loans were charged at fixed interest rates. Management is monitoring the change of floating interest rates. The Company plans to repay the bank loans with floating interest rates when the floating interest rates exceed fixed interest rates, because such bank loans are short-term and the Company has sufficient credit lines with fixed interest rates. |
| Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Income Taxes - The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method whereby deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences by applying statutory tax rates applicable to future years to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the tax bases of certain assets and liabilities, changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities, if any, include the impact of any tax rate changes enacted during the year. ASC Topic 350 , “Accounting for Income Taxes,” requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if, based on all available evidence, it is considered more likely than not that some portion or all of the recorded deferred tax assets will not be realized in future periods. Additionally, the Company accounts for uncertainty in income taxes using a two-step approach to recognize and measure uncertain tax positions. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. The second step is to measure the tax benefit as the largest amount that is more than 50% likely of being realized upon settlement. The Company classifies the liability for unrecognized tax benefits as current to the extent that the Company anticipates payment (or receipt) of cash within one year. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions are recognized in the provision for income taxes. If the amount of the Company’s taxable income or income tax liability is a determinant of the amount of a grant, the grant is treated as a reduction of the income tax provision in the year the grant is realized. |
| Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Research and Development Costs - Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. |
| Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Advertising, Shipping and Handling Costs – Advertising, shipping and handling costs are expensed as incurred and recorded in selling expense s. Shipping and handling costs relating to sales of $6.5 million and $7.4 million were included in selling expenses for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively. |
| Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Income Per Share - Basic income per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period using the two-class method. Under the two-class method, net income is allocated between ordinary shares and other participating securities, including convertible note holders, if any, based on their participating rights. Diluted income per share is calculated by dividing net income attributable to ordinary shareholders, as adjusted for the effects on income of participating securities as if they were dilutive ordinary shares, if any, by the weighted average number of ordinary and dilutive ordinary equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Ordinary equivalent shares consist of ordinary shares issuable upon the conversion of the convertible notes using the if-converted method, and shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants for the purchase of ordinary shares using the treasury stock method. Ordinary equivalent shares are not included in the denominator of the diluted earnings per share calculation when inclusion of such shares would be antidilutive. |
| Comprehensive Income, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Comprehensive Income – ASC Topic 220 establishes standards for the reporting and display of comprehensive income, its components and accumulated balances in a full set of general purpose financial statements. ASC Topic 220 defines comprehensive income to include all changes in equity except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, including adjustments to minimum pension liabilities, accumulated foreign currency translation, and unrealized gains or losses on marketable securities. |
| Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Fair Value Measurements – For purposes of fair value measurements, the Company applies the applicable provisions of ASC 820 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” Accordingly, fair value for the Company’s financial accounting and reporting purposes represents the estimated price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the designated measurement date. With an objective to increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures, the Financial Accounting Standard Board established the fair value hierarchy which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. Level 1 Inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the measurement date. An active market for the asset or liability is a market in which transactions for the asset or liability occur with sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. A quoted price in an active market provides the most reliable evidence of fair value and shall be used to measure fair value whenever available. As at December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not have any fair value assets and liabilities classified as Level 1. Level 2 Inputs are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. If the asset or liability has a specified (contractual) term, a Level 2 input must be observable for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. As at December 31, 2018 and 2017, the Company did not have any fair value assets and liabilities classified as Level 2. Level 3 Inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are used to measure fair value to the extent that observable inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there is little, if any, market activity for the asset or liability at the measurement date. However, the fair value measurement objective remains the same, that is, an exit price from the perspective of a market participant that holds the asset or owes the liability. Therefore, unobservable inputs shall reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability (including assumptions about risk). As at December 31, 2018 and 2017, wealth management financial products were classified as Level 3. The Company’s financial instruments consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, pledged cash, time deposits, accounts and notes receivable, accounts and notes payable, advance payment or payable, other receivable or payable, accrued expenses and bank loans. As of December 31, 2018 and 2017, the respective carrying values of all financial instruments approximated fair value because any changes in fair value, after considering the discount rate, are immaterial. |
| Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] | Stock-Based Compensation - The Company may issue stock options to employees and stock options or warrants to non-employees in non-capital raising transactions for services and for financing costs. The Company has adopted ASC Topic 718 , “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” which establishes a fair value based method of accounting for stock-based compensation plans. In accordance with ASC Topic 718, the cost of stock options and warrants issued to employees and non-employees is measured on the grant date based on the fair value. The fair value is determined using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The resulting amount is charged to expense on the straight-line basis over the period in which the Company expects to receive the benefit, which is generally the vesting period. |
| Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] | Foreign Currencies - China Automotive, the parent company, and HLUSA maintain their books and records in United States Dollars, “USD,” which is their functional currency. The Company’s subsidiaries based in the PRC and Genesis maintain their books and records in Renminbi, “RMB,” which is their functional currency. The Company’s subsidiary based in Brazil maintains its books and records in Brazilian reais, “BRL,” which is its functional currency. In accordance with ASC Topic 830 , “ FASB Accounting Standards Codification” , foreign currency transactions denominated in currencies other than the functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency at the rate of exchange prevailing at the balance sheet date for monetary items. Nonmonetary items are remeasured at historical rates. Income and expenses are remeasured at the rate in effect on the transaction dates. Transaction gains and losses, if any, are included in the determination of net income for the period. In translating the financial statements of the Company’s China and Brazil subsidiaries and Genesis from their functional currency into the Company's reporting currency of United States dollars, balance sheet accounts are translated using the closing exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet date and income and expense accounts are translated using an average exchange rate prevailing during the reporting period. Adjustments resulting from the translation, if any, are included in cumulative other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity. |
| Related Party Transactions [Policy Text Block] | Certain Relationships and Related Transactions The following are the related parties of the Company. The major shareholders of the Company directly or indirectly have interests in these related parties: Jingzhou Henglong Fulida Textile Co., Ltd., “ Fulida ” Xiamen Joylon Co., Ltd., “ Xiamen Joylon ” Shanghai Tianxiang Automotive Parts Co., Ltd., “ Shanghai Tianxiang ” Shanghai Jinjie Industrial & Trading Co., Ltd., “ Shanghai Jinjie ” Changchun Hualong Automotive Technology Co., Ltd., “ Changchun Hualong ” Jiangling Tongchuang Machining Co., Ltd., “ Jiangling Tongchuang ” Shanghai Hongxi Investment Inc, “ Hongxi ” Hubei Wiselink Equipment Manufacturing Co., Ltd., “ Hubei Wiselink ” Jingzhou Derun Agricultural S&T Development Co., Ltd., “ Jingzhou Derun ” Jingzhou Tongying Alloys Materials Co., Ltd., “ Jingzhou Tongying ” Wuhan Dida Information S&T Development Co., Ltd., “ Wuhan Dida ” Hubei Wanlong Investment Co., Ltd., “ Hubei Wanlong ” Jingzhou Yude Machining Co., Ltd., “ Jingzhou Yude ” Wiselink Holdings Limited, “ Wiselink ” Beijing Hainachuan HengLong Automotive Steering System Co., Ltd., “ Beijing Henglong ” Honghu Changrun Automotive Parts Co., Ltd., “ Honghu Changrun ” Jingzhou Henglong Real Estate Co., Ltd., “ Henglong Real Estate ” Xiamen Joylon Automotive Parts Co., Ltd., “Xiamen Automotive Parts ” Jingzhou Jiulong Machinery and Electronic Trading Co., Ltd., “ Jiulong Machinery ” Wuhan Tongkai Automobile Motor Co., Ltd., “ Wuhan Tongkai ” Jingzhou Natural Astaxanthin Inc, “ Jingzhou Astaxanthin ” Hubei Asta Biotech Inc, “ Hubei Asta ” Shanghai Yifu Automotive Electronics Technology Co., Ltd., “ Shanghai Yifu ” Suzhou Qingyan Venture Capital Fund L.P, “ Suzhou Qingyan ” Chongqing Qingyan Venture Capital Fund L.P, “ Chongqing Qingyan ” Chongqing Jinghua Automotive Intelligent Manufacturing Technology Research Co., Ltd., “ Chongqing Jinghua ” Jingzhou WiseDawn Electric Car Co., Ltd., “ Jingzhou WiseDawn ” Hubei Zhirong Automobile Technology Co., Ltd., “ Hubei Zhirong ” Hubei Tongrun Automotive Parts Industry Development Co., Ltd., “ Hubei Tongrun ” |
| Products Sold To Related Parties [Policy Text Block] | Principal policies of the Company in connection with transactions with related parties are as follows: Products Sold to Related Parties – The Company sold products to related parties at fair market prices, and also granted them credit of three to four months on an open account basis. These transactions were consummated under similar terms as the Company's other customers. |
| Materials Purchased From Related Parties [Policy Text Block] | Materials Purchased from Related Parties – The Company purchased materials from related parties at fair market prices, and also received from them credit of three to four months on an open account basis. These transactions were consummated under similar terms as the Company's other suppliers. |
| Equipment And Production Technology Purchased From Related Parties [Policy Text Block] | Equipment and Production Technology Purchased from Related Parties - The Company purchased equipment and production technology from related parties at fair market prices, or reasonable cost plus pricing if fair market prices are not available and was required to pay in advance based on the purchase agreement between the two parties, because such equipment manufacturing and technology development was required for a long period. These transactions are consummated under similar terms as the Company's other suppliers. |
| Short-term Credits loan Extended To Related Parties [Policy Text Block] | Short-term Loans Extended to Related Parties - The Company provides short-term loans to related parties and assists the borrowing entities in addressing certain cash flow needs. In general, the Company charges interest by referencing to the prevailing borrowing interest rates published by PBOC. The loans to related parties are required to be approved by the audit committee. |
| New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] | Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Standards Adopted In May 2014, the FASB and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) jointly issued ASU No. 2014-9, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which was further updated by ASU No. 2016-08 in March 2016, ASU No.2016-10 in April 2016 and ASU No.2016-11 in May 2016. The new guidance clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue and develops a common revenue standard for GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. In July 2015, the FASB approved a deferral of the ASU effective date from annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016 to annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company has evaluated its material contracts, and has concluded that the impact of adopting the standard on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures was not material. The Company adopted the standard on January 1, 2018. In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230), Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments. ASU 2016-15 refines how companies classify certain aspects of the cash flow statement in regards to debt prepayment, settlement of debt instruments, contingent consideration payments, proceeds from insurance claims and life insurance policies, distribution from equity method investees, beneficial interests in securitization transactions and separately identifiable cash flows. ASU 2016-15 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption of this guidance does not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740) - Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory, to improve the accounting for the income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other than inventory. The FASB decided that an entity should recognize the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs. Consequently, the amendments in this Update eliminate the exception for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory. Two common examples of assets included in the scope of this Update are intellectual property and property, plant, and equipment. The Update does not change GAAP for an intra-entity transfer of inventory. The amendments in this Update do not include new disclosure requirements; however, existing disclosure requirements might be applicable when accounting for the current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory. For public business entities, the amendments in this Update are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted for all entities as of the beginning of an annual reporting period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments in this Update should be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. The adoption of this guidance does not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Statements of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash. In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, Statements of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash. The guidance requires that a statement of cash flows explain the changes during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statements of cash flows. The standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The standard should be applied to each period presented using a retrospective transition method. The adoption of this standard does not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, but resulted in pledged cash being included with cash, cash equivalents and pledged cash when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statements of cash flows. New Accounting Standards Not Yet Adopted In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which requires that a lessee should recognize the assets and liabilities that arise from operating leases. A lessee should recognize in the balance sheet a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. For leases with a term of 12 months or less, a lessee is permitted to make an accounting policy election by class of underlying asset not to recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. If a lessee makes this election, it should recognize lease expenses for such lease generally on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The new lease standard also provides lessees with a practical expedient, by class of underlying asset, to not separate non-lease components from the associated lease component. If a lessee makes that accounting policy election, it is required to account for the non-lease components together with the associated lease component as a single lease component and to provide certain disclosures. Lessors are not afforded a similar practical expedient. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years for public entities. For all other entities, the amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. Early application of the amendments in this Update is permitted for all entities. Entities are required to adopt the new lease standard using a modified retrospective transition method. Under that transition method, an entity initially applies the new lease standard (subject to specific transition requirements and optional practical expedients) at the beginning of the earliest period presented in the financial statements. In July 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-11, which provides another transition method in addition to the existing transition method by allowing entities to initially apply the new lease standard at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. This ASU also provides lessors with a practical expedient, by class of underlying asset, to not separate non-lease components from the associated lease component, similar to the expedient provided for lessees. However, the lessor practical expedient is limited to circumstances in which the non-lease component or components otherwise would be accounted for under the new revenue guidance and both (1) the timing and pattern of transfer are the same for the non-lease component(s) and associated lease component and (2) the lease component, if accounted for separately, would be classified as an operating lease. The Company will adopt this new guidance for the year ending December 31, 2019 and interim periods in the year ending December 31, 2019. The Company estimates that approximately $0.6 million would be recognized as total right-of-use assets and total lease liabilities on our consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2019. Other than as disclosed above, we do not expect the new standard to have a material impact on our remaining consolidated financial statements. In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, which eliminates the probable recognition threshold for credit impairments. The new guidance broadens the information that an entity must consider in developing its expected credit loss estimate for assets measured either collectively or individually to include forecasted information, as well as past events and current conditions. There is no specified method for measuring expected credit losses, and an entity is allowed to apply methods that reasonably reflect its expectations of the credit loss estimate. For public business entities that are SEC filers, the amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact of the amendments on its consolidated financial statements. In May 2017, the FASB issued guidance within ASU 2017-09: Scope of Modification Accounting. The amendments in ASU 2017-09 to Topic 718, Compensation - Stock Compensation, provide guidance about which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting. An entity should account for the effects of a modification unless all of the following conditions are met: the fair value of the modified award is the same as the fair value of the original award immediately before the original award is modified; the vesting conditions of the modified award are the same as the vesting conditions of the original award immediately before the original award is modified; and the classification of the modified award as an equity instrument or a liability instrument is the same as the classification of the original award immediately before the original award is modified. The amendments should be applied prospectively to an award modified on or after the adoption date. The amendments are effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 31, 2018. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in any interim period. The adoption of this guidance is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, to address specific consequences of the U.S. Tax Reform. The update allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the U.S. Tax Reform. The accounting update is effective January 1, 2019, with early adoption permitted, and is to be applied either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period in which the effect of the change in the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate in the U.S. Tax Reform is recognized. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on the Company's consolidated financial statements. |
