Chery may become the first Chinese automaker to manufacture cars in Europe; Mexico will halt EV incentives for Chinese brands; BYD’s EV sales in Australia set to double...

Here’s a summary of major overseas developments in the auto industry from the past week.

01. Chery signs joint venture with Spain’s Ebro-EV Motors

On April 19, Spanish automaker Ebro-EV Motors and Chery signed a joint venture agreement in Barcelona to develop new electric vehicles. Under the deal, Chery will become the first Chinese automaker to produce cars in Europe, utilizing Ebro’s facilities at the former Nissan plant in Barcelona, which shut down in 2021.

Located in the Zona Franca port area, the joint venture is expected to create 1,250 jobs, with production targets of 50,000 units by 2027 and 150,000 by 2029. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the agreement a symbolic milestone in Spain’s reindustrialization efforts.

Ebro CEO Pedro Calef said production of Chery’s first electric model, the Omoda 5, and an internal combustion version, will begin in Q4 2024. Two additional SUV models using Chery technology are also planned for release by year-end. Chery EVP Zhang Guibing emphasized that both companies are co-designing these "newborn" models to be distributed through the joint venture.

Source: Xinhua News

02. Chery enters UK car rental market

Chery has officially entered the UK car rental market, aiming to offer flexible leasing options and diverse vehicle models to cater to local demand. The company plans to partner with UK rental providers for localized services.

Source: Asia Business Outlook

03. BYD plans to double EV sales in Australia in 2024 and again in 2025

BYD and distributor EVDirect plan to double EV sales in Australia in 2024 and again in 2025, potentially reaching 50,000 units. EVDirect CEO David Smitherman announced the plan at a media test drive event, also revealing plans to grow BYD’s dealer network to over 70 outlets and increase marketing spend by 500%.

BYD plans to release up to five new models annually, expanding from its existing Atto 3 SUV, Dolphin hatchback, and Seal sedan lineup. It may also introduce its first pickup truck, likely a plug-in hybrid.

Source: The Driven

04. BYD’s ATTO 3 SUV gains certification in India

BYD’s ATTO 3 SUV has been certified by India’s Automotive Research Association (ARAI). Following a record sales year in 2023, BYD aims to support India’s EV30@2030 goal and boost sustainable mobility.

The company’s Indian portfolio includes the luxury BYD SEAL (410–530 lakh rupees, 650 km range), ATTO 3 electric SUV, and e6 electric MPV—forming a comprehensive all-electric lineup.

Source: AutoX

05. Mexico to end EV incentives for Chinese automakers

Under U.S. pressure, Mexico will reportedly end its incentive policies for Chinese EV manufacturers in 2024. These incentives were originally meant to attract foreign investment. Tesla may still benefit from incentives for its factory in Nuevo León, as could Audi and BMW.

BYD had considered building a plant in Mexico, but Reuters reports that Mexican officials informed the company in January that incentives would no longer be offered and paused further meetings.

With over 20 Chinese brands currently importing EVs into Mexico, they are drawn by favorable production costs and NAFTA tariff-free access to the U.S.—though battery sourcing rules may pose challenges.

Source: Reuters

06. BYD electric buses debut on Bangkok’s Thonglor Road

BYD launched trial runs of its B70 electric bus in Bangkok’s upscale Thonglor area, offering free rides until April 30. The 36-seat bus offers a 150 km range per charge and is equipped with modern features like USB ports and wheelchair ramps.

Thai distributor Rever Commercial Vehicles plans to expand EV offerings for tourism, logistics, and public transport. In Phuket, a similar initiative supported by the Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation will start on May 9.

Source: The Thaiger

07. Geely eyes European production — possibly beyond Poland

Geely remains committed to producing vehicles in Europe, despite uncertainty around its earlier agreement with Poland. A final decision from the new Polish government is expected this summer.

If Poland doesn’t move forward, Geely may look to Spain, where Chery has secured a deal. Spain is opening €1.7 billion in EU-funded grants and loans for automakers in 2024.

Source: Motor1 UK

08. Geely expands dealer network in Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Geely has launched a new dealership in Ilocos Sur, featuring a 565 m² showroom and 880 m² service center. Soft-launched on March 24, the facility will serve local and nearby residents.

Source: The Manila Times

09. BAIC teams up with EPMB for auto manufacturing in Malaysia

Malaysia’s EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB) has signed a deal with BAIC to manufacture vehicles in Melaka, including BJ40+ and X55II models. The MOU includes plans to launch EV production by 2025.

Under the deal, BAIC will oversee assembly, tech support, and training, while managing ASEAN marketing. EPMB aims to gradually localize parts production to benefit from ASEAN free trade agreements and gain policy support from the Malaysian government.

Source: Zigwheels

More Articles...