Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery is actively pursuing partnerships with European car companies to boost its manufacturing presence across the continent, according to senior company officials speaking at a Paris event.
During a Friday launch event for Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo vehicle lines in France, Lionel French Keogh, the company’s chief commercial officer for France, revealed to Reuters that “The company is looking for other production capacities in Europe.”
Company Chairman Yin Tongyue explained to reporters that Chery would rather utilize existing manufacturing facilities than make substantial investments in constructing new assembly operations.
“These processes require time and dedication but mainly setting up the right local partnerships,” Yin stated. “I really hope we will have news to share with you in the coming months.”
While Yin refused to identify potential automotive partners or specify which nations are under consideration, he confirmed that France remains among the possible locations for expansion.
Similar to Chinese competitor BYD, Chery has experienced dramatic expansion following its European market entry in 2023. European vehicle sales surged nearly six times last year, climbing to 120,147 units from 17,035 in 2024, based on Dataforce consulting firm statistics.
Multiple Chinese automotive brands have already established European operations, with additional companies preparing continental launches.
The Chinese automaker, which leads the nation in vehicle exports, has previously invested in a Barcelona facility through a partnership with Ebro at a former Nissan manufacturing site. Company officials aim to achieve annual production of 200,000 vehicles at that location by 2029.
However, executives indicated this capacity will prove insufficient to satisfy car demand, address European Union tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, or fulfill European local content regulations.
France represents among the final major European automotive markets where Chery is introducing its Jaecoo and Omoda vehicle models. Company leaders announced plans to debut a Chery-branded model during the fourth quarter, with a potential small electric SUV launch in France before year-end.
The manufacturer recently revealed plans to introduce its Lepas brand throughout Europe.
Chery’s worldwide vehicle sales increased nearly 7% last year, reaching 2.8 million units. International markets beyond China represented more than 47% of total sales.
