The Chinese automotive giant Chery is evaluating the possibility of opening a production plant in Italy. The announcement was made by Vice President Charlie Zang during the Chery Global Innovation Conference 2024 held in Wuhu on October 18. Well-informed sources report that discussions are already underway with the Italian government, in particular with the Minister of Made in Italy Adolfo Urso.
This move fits in in Chery’s “In Europe for Europe” strategywhich aims to develop research and production activities directly on European territory. For the Chinese company, a plant in Italy would allow it to avoid import duties and strengthen its presence in the European market. On the other hand, the Italian government would view this investment favorably, in line with the objective of reaching an annual production of 1 million cars on the national territory.
Chery is the leading Chinese automotive group for exports in the world.
Founded in 1997 with headquarters in Wuhu, Chery produces 1.8 million cars annuallyhalf of which is destined for export. The company already has a presence in Italy through some models of the Tiggo family, imported and finalized by DR Automobiles Group in Macchia d’Isernia.
In 2024, Chery launched the brands Omoda&Jaecoo, specifically designed for the European market. These brands offer a range of SUVs with traditional petrol, plug-in hybrid and electric engines. The Omoda 5 has already been presented and tested in Europe.
Chery’s expansion into Europe is not an isolated case. Other Chinese automakers, such as Dongfeng, are exploring similar opportunities. This trend reflects the growing competitiveness and global ambition of the Chinese automotive industry, which aims to gain significant market shares in Europe.
If the project for a plant in Italy were to materialize, rit would represent an important foreign investment in the Italian automotive sector, with potential positive impacts in terms of employment and technological development. However, at the moment, the negotiations are still at a preliminary stage and no final decision has been made.
Source: www.tomshw.it
