Chinese automakers are expanding European factories and supplier networks ahead of proposed EU “Made in Europe” rules. Changan plans European output of 180,000 cars annually by 2028 and 350,000 by 2030, and hopes to build its first vehicle there in early 2027.
Chinese automakers are developing factories and supplier networks across Europe before the EU finalizes proposed local-content requirements. The rules, part of a planned Industrial Accelerator Act, aim to boost manufacturing and sourcing within the bloc, while Chinese firms see Europe as a growth opportunity as sales slow and an EV price war weighs on their home market.
Changan Automobile plans to make 180,000 cars a year in Europe by 2028 and 350,000 by 2030. Its president said he hopes the company can build its first European vehicle in early 2027. Xpeng, Chery and GAC are also pursuing production plans based on local supply networks; Xpeng says it is looking to start production when the rules take effect, while Magna already builds EVs for Xpeng in Austria.
The proposed rules have prompted debate over whether “Europe” should include non-EU countries such as Turkey, Britain and Morocco. Turkey’s auto industry says it supports 250,000 EU jobs, and more than 50% of the parts by value in Ford’s Turkish-made electric Transit vans come from EU suppliers. Analysts quoted in the article say Chinese automakers are unlikely to be deterred by the policy debate.
