Counting the economy hotels in China:
Jinjiang Inn: 139 hotels in 44 cities (including under development) as of June 2006, owned by Jinjiang Group (HK Stock Exchange, 2006.HK), started in 1996 (Shanghai).
Home Inns (Nasdaq, HMIN): 134 (94 leased, 40 franchised, 39 cities) as of Dec 31 2006, founded by Ctrip founders Ji Qi, Neil Shen and James Liang, started in 2002 (Beijing)
Motel168 (Morgan Stanley invested $20 m for 20% stake): as the name suggested, the room started from CNY 168, they also offer CNY 268 rooms; started in 2002 (Shanghai).
Super 8 (US Chain): all franchised
7Days Inn (Warburg Pincus invested $10 m for 20% stake): founded by Ctrip South China manager Zheng Nanyan (do we see pattern here?), started in Guangzhou.
Another useful source: hostelCN