The Chinese Car Invasion: Every Brand, Model & Price Now Conquering Europe

September 11, 2025
Chinese Car
Chinese Car
  • Chinese automakers surge into Europe (2024–2025): Over a dozen Chinese car brands – from BYD and MG to NIO and Xpeng – now sell passenger cars and commercial vehicles across European markets. These include budget-friendly EV hatchbacks, plug-in hybrid SUVs, and even luxury electric sedans priced above €100k insideevs.com.
  • Competitive pricing & rich features: Chinese models often undercut European rivals. For example, BYD’s Dolphin EV starts around €33,990 in France insideevs.com (≈£26k in the UK reuters.com) – a price that includes generous tech features and safety kit. Many Chinese brands bundle advanced driver aids, long-range batteries, and upscale infotainment as standard to entice value-conscious buyers.
  • All segments covered – EV, hybrid, and ICE: The new wave spans electric vehicles (EVs) like the MG4 and Xpeng P7, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) like Great Wall’s Wey Coffee 01, and even petrol models from brands like Chery’s Omoda. Commercial EVs are here too – e.g. SAIC’s Maxus eDeliver vans and T90 EV pickup give businesses all-electric options insideevs.com.
  • Country-specific pricing & availability: Chinese brands are expanding their dealer networks in major markets. BYD and MG have established sales in the UK, Germany, France, Norway and beyond, often partnering with local distributors. For instance, BYD’s Atto 3 electric SUV starts at £37,140 in Britain reuters.com, while NIO’s EL7 luxury SUV is DKK 724,000 in Denmark (≈€97k) insideevs.com. We list typical prices by market for each model below.
  • Buyer perks – long warranties & new sales models: Many Chinese marques offer standout warranties and purchase schemes. MG provides a 7-year/150,000 km warranty on all new models in Europe news.mgmotor.eu, signalling confidence in quality. NIO offers a unique battery subscription plan (you can buy the car without the battery to save cost, then pay a monthly fee for battery use) insideevs.com, and even app-based car subscriptions/sharing for its users electrive.com.

BYD – “Build Your Dreams” Goes Europe

BYD (China’s EV giant) has rapidly expanded into Europe’s EV market with multiple models and a growing dealer network. Industry experts note BYD’s aggressive overseas push: “We’re excited to start 2025 with another important model for our plans in Europe,” BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li said about BYD’s expansion reuters.com. Key BYD models available in Europe include:

  • BYD DolphinCompact electric hatchback. One of BYD’s most affordable EVs, the Dolphin starts at €33,990 in France insideevs.com (around £26,000 in the UK). Despite the low price, it delivers ~427 km WLTP range from a 60 kWh blade battery insideevs.com and earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The Dolphin’s UK launch pricing begins at £26,140 on-road reuters.com, making it highly competitive in the subcompact EV class.
  • BYD Atto 3Family crossover EV. A Tesla Model Y-sized crossover that undercuts rivals like the VW ID.4. In Germany the Atto 3 starts from €37,990 insideevs.com, while in Britain it’s £37,140 OTR reuters.com. This buys a 420 km WLTP range SUV with a 60.4 kWh battery insideevs.com, a stylish tech-filled interior, and a unique rotating infotainment screen. It’s roughly €2k cheaper than a comparable VW or Hyundai EV insideevs.com, highlighting BYD’s value play.
  • BYD SealMid-size sports sedan (EV). A direct rival to the Tesla Model 3, the Seal offers a sleek design and long range. In France it’s priced from €46,990 for the 230 kW RWD version insideevs.com. That model claims ~570 km WLTP range, slotting between the base and long-range Model 3 in both price and range insideevs.com. An AWD Seal is also offered (dual-motor, ~520 km range) from ~€49,990 in Europe insideevs.com. With a 0–100 km/h time around 3.8s, the Seal has won comparisons for delivering near-luxury features at a mid-range price.
  • BYD Seal U (a.k.a. Song Plus EV)Midsize electric SUV. Just launched in Europe, the Seal U is a roomy crossover closer to Tesla Model Y dimensions. In Belgium it starts at €42,740 insideevs.com and offers up to ~500 km WLTP range (with the larger 87 kWh battery option) insideevs.com. Its entry price is actually a bit lower than a base Model Y in Belgium, although the Tesla edges out slightly on range insideevs.com. The Seal U caters to families needing space, coming in 2WD or AWD forms.
  • BYD HanLuxury executive sedan (EV). BYD’s flagship sedan (comparable to a Model S or Mercedes EQE) comes loaded with features like dual motors and a plush interior. In France the Han is €70,800 for the base AWD version insideevs.com – significantly cheaper than a Tesla Model S (~€95k in France) for a similar size insideevs.com. The Han’s 85 kWh battery yields ~521 km WLTP range insideevs.com. It’s positioned for customers wanting a high-tech luxury EV at a more accessible price, undercutting German premium sedans by tens of thousands of euros.
  • BYD Tang7-seat large SUV (EV). A full-size electric SUV, the Tang is sold in select markets (Norway, Sweden, France, etc.) as a spacious family SUV. It shares the Han’s ~86 kWh battery for ~400 km range insideevs.com. Priced from €70,800 in France insideevs.com, the Tang undercuts equivalents like the Audi Q8 e-tron (which costs ~€89k in France) insideevs.com. With standard AWD and three rows of seating, the Tang offers a compelling alternative for large families going electric.

BYD Dealer & Support: BYD has partnered with established dealer groups in Europe (e.g. Pendragon in the UK, Hedin in Sweden) to roll out sales and service. Buyers typically get a 8-year battery warranty (or ~160,000 km) and ~4–6 year vehicle warranty (market-dependent), in line with industry norms. However, BYD’s push hasn’t been without bumps – Reuters noted BYD had to “reboot” its Europe operations in 2024 after initial challenges signing up enough dealers reuters.com. The company is now firmly committed to Europe, even exploring local assembly to mitigate EU tariffs reuters.com.

MG – Revived British Marque, Chinese Ownership (SAIC Motor)

MG Motor, a historic UK brand now owned by China’s SAIC, has become a surprise success in Europe by offering affordable, well-equipped cars – both electric and hybrid/ICE. In 2023, MG’s sales exploded in markets like France (where it briefly outsold some domestic brands) mgevs.com. All MGs come with a 7-year/150,000 km warranty as standard in Europe news.mgmotor.eu – one of the longest in the industry, giving new buyers peace of mind. Key models include:

  • MG4 EVCompact electric hatchback. This award-winning hatch is Europe’s budget EV champion, undercutting rivals like the VW ID.3 by thousands. UK pricing starts at £26,995 (≈€31k) for the SE Standard (51 kWh) version carwow.co.uk, which offers ~350 km range. Higher trims with the 64 kWh battery stretch up to 450+ km range. Even the top-performance MG4 XPower (dual-motor, 320 hp) is only ~£36k OTR carwow.co.uk – still far cheaper than a base Tesla. Reviews praise the MG4’s blend of sharp design, decent range, and “astonishing value for money” carwow.co.uk.
  • MG5 EVElectric estate (wagon). Billed as Europe’s first affordable electric station wagon, the MG5 offers family-car practicality. The refreshed 2025 MG5 is priced from £30,995 in the UK for the SE trim insideevs.com (around €36k). It features a ~61 kWh battery for about 400 km WLTP range, and its unique wagon body offers 479 liters of boot space – popular with taxi fleets and families.
  • MG ZS & ZS EVSubcompact crossover (ICE or EV). The ZS is a small SUV available either with a petrol engine or pure electric. The petrol ZS (1.5L or 1.0T) is one of Europe’s cheapest crossovers – in the UK starting ~£20,245 new autotrader.co.uk. The ZS EV (44.5 or 72.6 kWh battery) offers up to 440 km range and starts around €33,990 in Europe for the Standard Range model greencarscompare.com. In markets like Ireland, the ZS EV is priced from €31,995 after incentives mg.ie. Both versions come loaded with features (adaptive cruise, infotainment, etc.) at a budget price.
  • MG HS / EHSCompact SUV (petrol or PHEV). The HS is a family SUV slightly larger than the ZS. In ICE form (1.5T petrol) it’s competitively priced (~£23k in UK). The MG EHS plug-in hybrid, with 258 hp combined output, starts around €35–37k in continental Europe (market dependent). For example, France lists the EHS PHEV from ~€36k. The PHEV can drive ~52 km on battery alone – great for city commutes – and helped MG become a top PHEV seller.
  • MG Marvel RMid-size electric SUV. The Marvel R is a more premium offering from MG/SAIC, with tri-motor AWD option and a sleek design. Initially priced around €40,300 (£35k) for the base version in 2022 uk.driveduel.de, a high-spec Performance trim was about €50,990 greencarscompare.com. It features ~402 km WLTP range from a 70 kWh battery. While the Marvel R offered great specs for the money, it saw limited rollout; MG is already preparing a successor EV SUV by 2025 topelectricsuv.com, possibly with right-hand drive availability (the Marvel R was LHD only in Europe).
  • MG3 (Hybrid+)Subcompact hatchback (Mild hybrid). In some European markets, MG also sells the petrol MG3 – a simple 1.5L hatch, now with a mild-hybrid twist in “Hybrid+” form. It’s extremely affordable: in France the MG3 Hybrid+ starts at €19,990 new mgevs.com, undercutting Dacia. This model helped MG France capture significant market share with budget buyers mgevs.com. (Note: The MG3 does not meet all EU markets’ emissions standards, so availability varies; it’s not sold in the UK or Germany, for example.)

Dealer Network & Notable Perks: MG has established hundreds of dealerships across Western and Central Europe, often reviving or partnering with former MG-Rover dealers (in the UK) or new importers (e.g. MG Motor France). MG’s 7-year warranty news.mgmotor.eu applies to all models (EV, hybrid, petrol alike) and is a major selling point. Buyers also enjoy 7 years of roadside assistance in some countries. MG cars tend to come with generous equipment for the price – even base models get touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety features (lane keep assist, AEB) are standard on most. This value proposition has made MG one of the fastest-growing brands in Europe in 2023–2024.

NIO – Premium EVs with Battery Swap & Subscription

NIO, often dubbed “China’s Tesla”, has entered Europe focusing on the premium segment. It opened its first overseas NIO Houses in Norway in 2021 and has since expanded to Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and beyond. NIO’s distinguishing feature is its battery-swapping technology and flexible purchase models. Instead of buying the battery with the car, NIO customers can opt for Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) – leasing the battery on a monthly plan, which lowers the car’s upfront price insideevs.com. NIO also offers a subscription program where users can lease the car itself month-to-month (popular in the Netherlands and Germany). Key models in Europe:

  • NIO ET5Mid-size electric sedan. A stylish sedan aimed at the BMW i4/Tesla Model 3 segment. In Denmark (one of NIO’s launch markets in the EU), the ET5 starts at 408,000 DKK (Danish kroner) insideevs.com – about $60k, excluding the battery. With BaaS, Danish buyers pay roughly €54k for the car and then a monthly fee for battery use. The ET5’s 75 kWh (or optional 100 kWh) pack delivers up to 560 km WLTP range insideevs.com. Notably, the ET5 has an optional station-wagon variant (ET5 Touring) in Europe, catering to local tastes for estates.
  • NIO ET7Full-size luxury sedan. NIO’s flagship sedan (think Tesla Model S or Mercedes EQS class) offers a spacious, tech-filled cabin and autonomous driving features. In Denmark it’s priced from 684,000 DKK (≈€92,000) with no battery insideevs.com. The ET7 boasts up to 580 km WLTP on the 100 kWh pack insideevs.com, dual motors (~650 hp) for 0–100 km/h in 3.8s, and amenities like an active air suspension and a 23-speaker Dolby Atmos sound system insideevs.com. It’s positioned as a true luxury EV alternative, and its pricing reflects the high-end specs.
  • NIO EL6 (formerly ES6) – 5-seat electric SUV. A mid-sized premium SUV, the EL6 is NIO’s answer to the Audi Q5 or Tesla Model Y (but more upscale). It starts around 454,000 DKK in Denmark insideevs.com (~€61k excluding battery). The EL6 offers up to 529 km range WLTP insideevs.com, a plush interior with available massage seats, and a vast array of sensors for NIO’s NIO Pilot assist system. (Note: The model name was changed to EL6 in Europe after Audi objected to “ES6” sounding too close to its S6 insideevs.com.)
  • NIO EL7 (formerly ES7) – Large 5-seat SUV. The EL7 is NIO’s larger SUV, a bit bigger than EL6 and geared as a luxury cruiser. Priced from 724,000 DKK in Denmark insideevs.com (~€97k no battery), it comes standard with dual-motor AWD (~644 hp) and a massive interior. It’s NIO’s European flagship SUV until the new EL8 arrives. The EL7 does 0–100 km/h in ~3.9s and features premium touches like Nappa leather, an intelligent cockpit with the “NOMI” AI assistant, and V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionality insideevs.com.
  • NIO EL8 (ES8) – Full-size 6 or 7-seat SUV. NIO’s three-row SUV was among its first models in Norway. The newest generation (EL8) was introduced in 2023 and is reaching Europe. Pricing in Norway started at NOK 609,000 (≈€60k) for the standard range version nio.com, cnevpost.com. The EL8 offers a luxurious family hauler with options for captain’s chairs, and with the 100 kWh battery it can exceed 500 km range. Notably, it was one of the first EVs in Europe with battery swapping – NIO has built swap stations in Norway, Germany, etc., where an EL8/ES8 can get a fresh battery in 5 minutes.

Ownership Experience: NIO distinguishes itself by its premium “user community” approach. NIO Houses (brand experience centers) in cities like Oslo, Berlin, etc., offer cafes, workspaces and showcase the cars. Warranty: NIO typically offers 5-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty and 8-year/200,000 km on the battery. With the BaaS model, battery maintenance is NIO’s responsibility. Expert perspective: NIO’s battery swap strategy is bold – the company is “so confident in the technology that the base prices you see here don’t include the battery”, effectively making the cars seem quite attractive at first glance insideevs.com. This unique approach, plus features like in-car AI and augmented-reality head-up displays, position NIO as a tech-forward luxury contender in Europe’s EV market.

Xpeng – High-Tech EVs at Affordable Prices

Xpeng Motors (pronounced “X-pung”) is another prominent Chinese EV startup targeting Europe with a tech-savvy image. Often compared to Tesla for its software focus, Xpeng began European sales in Norway and is expanding to other countries (Sweden, Netherlands, etc.). The brand emphasizes advanced driver assistance (its XPILOT system) and connectivity features. Models on offer:

  • Xpeng P7Sleek electric sports sedan. The P7 is a low-slung four-door coupe that sits between a Tesla Model 3 and Model S in size. In Norway, the well-equipped RWD version starts at 472,900 NOK (≈€43,500) insideevs.com. For that, it delivers up to 576 km WLTP range from an 86 kWh battery insideevs.com – one of the longest ranges in its class. The P7’s highlight is its tech: Xpeng’s XPILOT 3.0 suite (with 31 sensors including lidar on newer versions) enables hands-free highway driving and smart parking features insideevs.com. With a 0–100 km/h time as quick as 4.1 seconds (AWD variant), the P7 has made a splash as a value alternative to European luxury EV sedans.
  • Xpeng G9All-electric mid-size SUV. The G9 is Xpeng’s flagship SUV, featuring a spacious interior and cutting-edge electronics (it was one of the first vehicles built on an 800V architecture for ultra-fast charging). Priced from 537,430 NOK in Norway (~€49,500) insideevs.com, the G9 offers up to 570 km WLTP range in its Long Range version insideevs.com. It comes with dual-motor AWD (up to 405 kW/550 hp in Performance trim) and can charge at over 200 kW, recouping 200 km range in as little as 5 minutes under ideal conditions. Tech is front and center: the G9 boasts Xpilot 4.0 autonomous hardware (with NVIDIA Orin chips) and a luxurious cabin with a 15-inch infotainment screen and even an optional built-in fridge for road trips.
  • Xpeng G3iCompact electric crossover. Xpeng’s first model in Europe, the G3, was a smaller SUV introduced in Norway back in 2020. The updated G3i is still available in some markets in limited numbers. With a ~50 kWh battery, ~XPILOT 2.5 level autonomy and ~460 km NEDC range (around 320 km realistic), the G3 was priced around €30k in Norway initially. However, Xpeng’s focus has shifted to the larger P7 and G9 for Europe, so the G3 is now mostly phased out or sold in small volumes.

Market and Sales: Xpeng has been selling in Norway for a few years and is entering the likes of the Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden as of 2024. It generally sells directly or via import partners, with a strong online sales model. Warranties are around 5 years vehicle/8 years battery – similar to other EV brands. Xpeng’s strategy is to pack their cars with innovative features – for example, the P7 and G9 have an interactive in-car voice assistant, and even a built-in karaoke system for passengers. While still relatively new in Europe, Xpeng has drawn interest from tech enthusiasts; as one tech outlet put it, Xpeng is “a darling of the technology community” with top talent from Alibaba and Xiaomi guiding its product design insideevs.com.

Great Wall Motor (ORA & WEY) – Funky EVs and Plug-in SUVs

Great Wall Motor (GWM), one of China’s largest SUV and pickup manufacturers, has launched two sub-brands in Europe: ORA (focused on electric city cars) and WEY (focused on premium SUVs, particularly plug-in hybrids). GWM is leveraging these brands to target different niches:

  • ORA Funky Cat (Ora 03)Retro-style electric hatch. The ORA Funky Cat – known as the Ora 03 in some countries – is a compact EV with a neo-retro design (round headlights and a profile reminiscent of a VW Beetle). In Germany it starts from €26,990 for the 48 kWh battery version insideevs.com, while the 63 kWh “Long Range” pushes the price above €30k. In the UK, the Funky Cat debuted at £31,995 OTR for the First Edition topgear.com, but GWM has since introduced a £3,750 “Green Grant” discount, effectively bringing base prices down to ~£24,995 gwmcars.co.uk to spur sales. Range is up to ~310–420 km WLTP depending on battery insideevs.com. Despite its playful looks, the Funky Cat is quite high-tech: features include a 10.25-inch dual screen setup, facial recognition for driver fatigue, and a comprehensive ADAS suite (with collision avoidance, adaptive cruise, etc.) electrive.com. ORA has marketed the Funky Cat as a fashion-forward EV for urban buyers – “young, creative and progressive”, in the words of GWM’s Europe marketing director electrive.com.
  • WEY Coffee 01Large premium plug-in hybrid SUV. The Coffee 01 is a flagship PHEV SUV from GWM’s Wey brand (named to evoke “premium” like a cup of fine coffee). It pairs a 2.0L turbo petrol with two electric motors for a combined 476 hp and on-demand AWD china-certification.com. Uniquely, it packs a 41 kWh battery – huge for a PHEV – granting an electric range up to 150 km (WLTP), meaning many daily trips can be done emissions-free seaisi.org. In Europe, the Coffee 01 is priced as a luxury product: €55,900–€59,900 depending on spec in Germany seaisi.org. For context, that’s Audi/BMW territory, but Wey justifies it with a loaded feature list: quilted Nappa leather, smart assistants, and safety credentials like a 5-star Euro NCAP rating seaisi.org. First deliveries began in Germany in late 2022 seaisi.org, and Wey is expanding to Sweden, Spain, and beyond. Early reviewers noted the Coffee 01 offers a massive 800 km total range (combustion + electric) and an opulent interior, but its unknown brand and high price make it a dark horse in the segment.
  • WEY Coffee 02 (Wey 05)Mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV. The Coffee 02 is a slightly smaller PHEV SUV (closer to Toyota RAV4 size) that GWM slated for Europe in 2023 seaisi.org. It shares design DNA with the 01 but likely with a bit less power and a lower price. In China, the Coffee 02 (called “Wey Macchiato” there) has a ~33 kWh battery. GWM hinted the Coffee 02 would launch starting in Belgium and France seaisi.org. An indicative base price rumored around €45k (to undercut the Coffee 01) has been reported in Chinese media, but official EU pricing is TBD. Expect ~110 km electric range and the same plush styling, but in a 4.5m-long package.
  • Upcoming ORA models: Beyond the Funky Cat, ORA has shown other EVs that could reach Europe. Notably the ORA Good Cat (same as Funky Cat, just different markets) and the ORA Next Cat (a larger electric sedan, sometimes referred to as ORA Lightning Cat – a retro-styled EV coupe). GWM has not confirmed Next Cat for Europe yet, but the success of Funky Cat will likely determine future launches.

Great Wall’s Approach: GWM set up a European HQ in Germany and is using aggressive marketing to establish ORA and WEY. They emphasize safety and quality – the Coffee 01 meets strict Euro 6d emissions for its engine and got five Euro NCAP stars seaisi.org, while the Funky Cat also achieved 5 stars in Euro NCAP. Warranty: ORA and WEY models generally come with a 5-year vehicle warranty and 8-year battery coverage (for EVs/PHEVs). Dealer Network: Initially, GWM is selling through select partners (e.g., the Emil Frey group in Germany for ORA). By mid-2024, ORA had a presence in the UK, Germany, Sweden, and Israel, and over 100 ORA Funky Cats were registered in Germany in the first half of 2024 chinamobil.ru (small, but a start). The company’s goal is to position ORA as a trendy, city-chic brand and WEY as an alternative to Lexus/Acura for eco-conscious luxury SUV buyers.

Geely Group’s Brands – Lynk & Co and Zeekr

Chinese auto giant Geely (which owns Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, etc.) is bringing its own new brands to Europe. Two notable ones are Lynk & Co and Zeekr:

Lynk & Co – Subscription-Focused Hybrids & EVs

Lynk & Co is a joint venture between Geely and Volvo Cars. It’s positioned as a “mobility” brand for young urbanites, emphasizing flexible ownership. Lynk & Co famously offers a monthly subscription (€500–€550) that covers use of its cars with insurance – like Netflix for cars octotelematics.com. Customers can also purchase outright, but Lynk & Co’s model encourages short-term access and even car-sharing (owners can share their Lynk & Co vehicle via an app). In Europe, Lynk & Co’s lineup:

  • Lynk & Co 01Compact SUV PHEV. The 01 is essentially a cousin of the Volvo XC40, built on the CMA platform. It’s sold as a plug-in hybrid only in Europe, with a 1.5L turbo engine + electric motor (261 hp combined) and ~69 km EV range (17.6 kWh battery). If buying outright, the 01 PHEV lists around €44,500 in many markets eurotarget.com (for the fully-loaded trim, since Lynk & Co keeps configurations simple). In practice, most users opt for the subscription at ~€550/month which includes 1,250 km, with the option to rent the car out when not needed octotelematics.com. The 01 comes with a trendy design, spacious interior, and lots of standard kit (panoramic roof, 360° cameras, etc.). It resonated especially in the Netherlands and Sweden, where its subscription model suited those markets.
  • Lynk & Co 02All-electric crossover. Just launched in late 2024, the 02 EV is Lynk & Co’s first pure electric offering in Europe. It’s a 4.46m-long family SUV built on Geely’s advanced SEA platform (the same used by the Smart #1 and Volvo EX30) electrive.com. The starting price in Germany is €35,495 electrive.com, positioning it competitively against VW ID.3/ID.4. The 02 has a 200 kW (268 hp) motor, good for 0–100 km/h in 5.5 seconds electrive.com. Lynk & Co hasn’t published battery size in the press, but it promises 435–445 km range depending on trim electrive.com, likely from a ~70 kWh pack. Fast charging is 150 kW (about 30 min to 80%) electrive.com. True to Lynk & Co ethos, the 02 is designed for sharing: it has a “sharing button/strap” in the car – pull it and you can make the car available to others via the Lynk & Co app electrive.com. As the CEO, Nicolas Lopez Appelgren, said at the 02’s launch: “The all-new 02 represents the next phase for Lynk & Co… providing greater choice, flexibility, and access for our customers.” electrive.com

Network & Warranty: Lynk & Co doesn’t have traditional dealerships; instead it has “Clubs” in cities (pop-up showrooms where you can test drive) and everything else is online. Maintenance is arranged via Volvo’s service network in many countries. Warranty is 5 years/unlimited km for purchases. The Lynk & Co approach is unique, and early indications show about 90% of Lynk & Co users opt for the subscription. This brand is a case of a Chinese-owned company cleverly adapting to new usage models in Europe rather than purely competing on purchase price.

Zeekr – Premium Electric Vehicles

Zeekr is Geely’s upscale EV marque, positioned a rung above Lynk & Co and targeting tech-savvy premium buyers (somewhere between VW and Audi in positioning). Zeekr entered Europe in late 2023, starting with the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway. The initial models:

  • Zeekr 001Long-range luxury shooting brake. The 001 is a sleek crossover-wagon EV that combines sports car performance with wagon practicality. It boasts a massive 100 kWh battery and in dual-motor form, 400 kW (~536 hp) output. In the Netherlands, the Zeekr 001 starts at €59,490 insideevs.com. That’s for a well-equipped dual-motor version (AWD) with ~580 km WLTP range; a single-motor RWD variant with up to 620 km range is also available insideevs.com. The 001’s 0–100 km/h time can be as quick as 3.8 seconds insideevs.com, putting it in Porsche Taycan territory, yet its price undercuts a base Audi e-tron GT. Built on Geely’s SEA platform, the 001 also features air suspension, a luxurious interior, and a distinctive shooting brake silhouette (it’s like a blend of a sporty sedan and an estate). Zeekr is aiming at early adopters who want something distinct – the 001 certainly turns heads as a newcomer.
  • Zeekr XCompact sporty SUV. The X is a smaller electric crossover (about 4.3m long) that shares its core platform with the Smart #1 and Volvo EX30 (all developed by Geely). It’s tuned for a more premium feel, and also a higher price: starting at €42,490 in the Netherlands insideevs.com. For comparison, the Volvo EX30 starts around €36k in NL, so the Zeekr X is ~€6k pricier insideevs.com – Zeekr is positioning itself as more premium. The X offers up to 445 km range from a 69 kWh battery insideevs.com, and either single-motor (200 kW) or dual-motor (315 kW AWD) powertrains. It’s a tech-lover’s car too: the Zeekr X has a slick, minimalist interior with a large central screen, and it even features a moveable center console that can retract to create more space. Like Lynk & Co, Zeekr vehicles are being sold online and through brand centers, with servicing via established networks (often Volvo’s service centers due to the corporate link).

Zeekr’s Outlook: Geely has big plans for Zeekr – seeing it as a global premium EV brand. In China, Zeekr outsells some Tesla models and has a reputation for quality. In Europe, warranty is generally 5 years/100,000 km with 8-year battery warranty, aligning with premium expectations. Zeekr is also bringing the large 009 MPV (a lavish 7-seat electric van) to Europe in 2024 for a niche luxury market, and possibly a smaller Zeekr 003 hatchback in the future. Being part of Geely’s ecosystem, Zeekr can lean on Volvo/Polestar experience for safety – indeed Zeekr proudly notes using components tested by Volvo insideevs.com. Early adopters in countries like the Netherlands have responded positively, though some balk at paying more for an unfamiliar brand. As one industry observer quipped, the Zeekr X’s challenge is being “$10,000 more expensive than the Volvo EX30, which is hard to digest for a brand name that was nonexistent five years ago.” insideevs.com Time will tell if Europeans embrace Zeekr, but it clearly shows Chinese automakers are not just playing the budget game – they’re gunning for the premium segment too.

Chery (Omoda & Jaecoo) – Newcomer with Multi-Power Approach

Chery Automobile, a major Chinese state-owned automaker, is (re)entering Europe under new sub-brands Omoda and Jaecoo. Unlike some peers, Chery isn’t coming all-EV – it’s bringing petrol, hybrid, and electric options to cover all bases. Chery started sales in Spain in early 2024 and expanded to Italy and the UK by late 2024 reuters.com, motor1.com. It plans to use Omoda and Jaecoo as “premium” sub-brands (though their pricing is very competitive). Key models rolling out:

  • Omoda 5Compact crossover (petrol). The Omoda 5 is Chery’s spearhead model in Europe. It’s a 4.4m crossover with trendy styling (a coupe-like roof and bold grille) targeting the Nissan Qashqai class motor1.com. Under the hood is a 1.6 TGDI turbo petrol (186 PS, 275 Nm) with FWD and a 7-speed DCT motor1.com. Price is a strong suit: in Spain it launched at just €22,990 base motor1.com – extremely low for its segment. Italy’s price is “under €30,000” for well-equipped trims motor1.com, and in the UK a starting price of £24,000 (~€28k) has been announced motor1.com. For that, buyers get dual 10.25-inch screens inside, a full suite of safety aids, and a 5-year warranty. The Omoda 5 petrol is arriving in summer 2024 across initial markets motor1.com.
  • Omoda E5All-electric version of Omoda 5. The Omoda E5 (sometimes just called “Omoda 5 EV”) swaps in a 61 kWh battery and a 150 kW (204 PS) electric motor driving the front wheels motor1.com. It’s good for about 430 km (267 miles) WLTP range motor1.com. In Spain, the Omoda E5 is priced from €37,900 motor1.com, making it one of the cheaper family-sized EV SUVs in that market. The E5 has slightly restyled bumpers and wheels compared to the petrol, but maintains the same practical interior. With the E5, Chery is clearly aiming to undercut models like the Hyundai Kona Electric and MG ZS EV while offering a larger vehicle. Expect roll-out in late 2024 for Italy, UK, etc. (Chery noted the E5 would be available a few months after the petrol) reuters.com.
  • Jaecoo J7Rugged compact SUV (petrol, PHEV to come). Jaecoo is Chery’s other brand, focusing on more off-road-esque SUV styling. The J7 (also referred to as Jaecoo 7 in some releases) is a 4.5m SUV with a chunkier, squared-off design (think Jeep Cherokee or Toyota RAV4 style) motor1.com. It uses the same 1.6L turbo petrol (186 PS) but crucially offers all-wheel drive on the petrol version – giving it some off-road cred motor1.com. Chery indicates the base price around £40,000/€40,000 in Europe motor1.com, positioning it a class above the Omoda. The Jaecoo J7 should launch in autumn 2024 motor1.com. Notably, a Jaecoo J7 PHEV is also planned for Europe by 2024’s end motor1.com, pairing a 1.5L turbo with electric drive for a hefty 347 PS combined and about 88 km (55 miles) EV range motor1.com. This PHEV will have ~746 km total range, appealing to those who want long-range flexibility.
  • Jaecoo J8Mid-size flagship SUV (PHEV). The Jaecoo J8 is set to be Chery’s European flagship when it arrives in late 2024 or early 2025 motor1.com. It’s a larger ~4.8m SUV (think BMW X5 size) with a powerful plug-in hybrid drivetrain: reportedly up to 608 PS and 915 Nm combined output in top spec motor1.com. That likely comes from a 2.0L turbo + twin electric motors. The J8 will emphasize luxury and performance – but still at a China-price: expect it to significantly undercut European rivals of similar size. Chery hasn’t announced pricing, but given the J7 is ~€40k, the J8 might be in the €50k+ range. It will serve as a halo car to build the Jaecoo brand’s image.

Chery’s Ambitions & Support: Chery is China’s largest vehicle exporter and is treating this European launch very seriously. They’ve stated plans to introduce 3 SUV models for each of Omoda and Jaecoo brands by end of 2025 (mix of ICE, PHEV, EV) reuters.com. The company is even considering local manufacturing in Europe to bypass tariffs – they inked an agreement to potentially assemble cars in Spain (with partners in Valencia/Barcelona) reuters.com. Chery’s Vice President Shawn Xu said in mid-2024 that the group “aims to enter over 60 new markets globally in the next three years” reuters.com, with Europe a key focus.

For customers, Chery is setting up new dealer networks; in Italy, for example, they launched with 30 dealerships and plan to expand that rapidly. Warranty on Omoda/Jaecoo is expected to be 5 years (Chery has offered 5-year/150k km in markets like Australia). And despite being new, Chery’s products come with credibility – they’ve been engineered with inputs from around the world (the Jaecoo J7 was designed by an Italian firm; Omoda 5 achieved a 5-star safety rating in Chinese NCAP and is being tested for Euro NCAP). Bottom line: Chery’s dual-brand strategy is to offer European buyers stylish SUVs with multiple powertrain choices (something for everyone, whether you’re not ready for EV or fully EV-minded) at very competitive prices. This could shake up both the budget and mid-range SUV market if executed well.

Commercial Vehicles: Maxus (SAIC) and Others – Chinese Vans, Pickups & More

Chinese manufacturers are not only targeting personal cars – they’re also bringing commercial vehicles to Europe, especially in the electric van segment where demand is booming for zero-emission delivery vehicles. SAIC’s Maxus is the frontrunner here, but other firms like Seres (DFS) and Foton have some presence. Here are notable Chinese commercial models European businesses (or even private buyers) can purchase:

  • Maxus eDeliver 3Compact electric van. The eDeliver 3 (sold in some markets as the LDV EV30) is a small panel van ideal for city deliveries. Price: about €45,200 in Germany for the short-wheelbase version insideevs.com. It’s a 2-seat van with up to ~5 cubic meters cargo volume and an 860 kg payload insideevs.com. A 50 kWh battery gives ~238 km WLTP range insideevs.com, and it supports DC fast charging (0–80% in ~45 min) insideevs.com – crucial for fleet use. Operated by SAIC (China’s largest automaker), Maxus has roots in the UK’s LDV brand, and the eDeliver 3 has actually been fairly popular among European SMEs and even city councils.
  • Maxus eDeliver 9Large electric van. Competing with the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit, the eDeliver 9 is a full-size van available in multiple lengths/roof heights – all-electric. In Germany it’s listed from €76,743 insideevs.com. With batteries of 72 kWh or 89 kWh, it can go up to ~328 km WLTP on a charge insideevs.com. It offers a 150 kW (201 hp) motor, 3.5 ton GVW, and up to 1275 kg payload insideevs.com. The cab seats three and includes modern touches like a 10-inch infotainment and driver aids. For businesses aiming to green their fleet, the eDeliver 9 is one of the few large EV vans available (competing with the Ford E-Transit).
  • Maxus T90 EVMid-size electric pickup truck. The T90 EV holds the title of Europe’s first (and only) mid-size electric pickup for sale insideevs.com. It’s a double-cab pickup similar in size to a Nissan Navara. Priced around €65,438 in Germany insideevs.com, it’s not cheap – roughly double the cost of an ICE pickup – but it has no direct competition except the (larger) Ford F-150 Lightning which is only sold in Norway in limited numbers insideevs.com. The T90 EV has an 89 kWh battery for ~330 km range insideevs.com and a single 130 kW RWD motor (not 4×4) insideevs.com. It can carry around 1 tonne in the bed. Early adopters include utility companies and farms aiming for low-emission work trucks. It’s a niche, but Maxus proved the concept is viable – expect others to follow.
  • Maxus MIFA 9Full-size electric MPV. The MIFA 9 is an interesting entry – essentially a luxury electric minivan. About the size of a Mercedes V-Class, it’s aimed at high-end shuttle services or large families. In Germany, the 7-seat MIFA 9 starts at €68,990 insideevs.com. It has a 90 kWh battery good for ~440 km range insideevs.com and a 180 kW FWD motor. Inside, it’s truly premium: captain’s chairs, folding tables, multiple screens, and available executive configurations. Launched in 2022 globally, the MIFA 9 touts being “the world’s first full-size luxury EV MPV” insideevs.com. For Europe, it’s low-volume but shows how Chinese firms are even targeting niche luxury commercial segments.
  • Maxus Euniq 6 / 5Electric midsize SUV/MPV. The Euniq nameplate covers a few models; in Europe the Euniq 5 (compact MPV) and Euniq 6 (midsize crossover) have been offered. The Euniq 6 SUV is a 5-seat family crossover, essentially an EV conversion of a petrol model. It’s listed at €53,490 in Germany insideevs.com, with a 70 kWh battery for ~354 km range. It shares its powertrain with the T90 EV pickup (130 kW motor) insideevs.com. The Euniq 5 (if available) is a 7-seat compact van (like a Nissan Evalia) with a 52.5 kWh battery, ~325 km range, and around €40k pricing. These models haven’t made big waves but underscore SAIC’s strategy of filling every niche.

Other players: Aside from Maxus, a few other Chinese brands have dipped into Europe’s commercial sector:

  • Seres (DFS) – The Seres 3 compact EV (mentioned below) has a panel van variant in some regions (the Seres 3 Van with rear seats removed). Also, Dongfeng (DFSK) has sold tiny ICE vans and mini EVs in Europe via importers, often rebranded (for example, the DFSK EC35 small electric van sold in Germany under the name “Elaris Finn”). These remain low-volume and localized.
  • Foton & JAC – Chinese truck makers Foton and JAC have delivered some light-duty trucks or chassis cabs to Europe, often for specialized use. For example, a JAC electric truck is used by Austrian postal services, and Foton’s Tunisia plant has shipped some EV vans to EU. However, these are not widely available to general buyers.
  • Yutong & BYD Buses – On the heavy vehicle side, it’s worth noting Chinese electric buses (by Yutong, BYD, King Long) are now common in European city fleets. While a consumer can’t exactly go buy a 12m bus for personal use, it highlights the breadth of Chinese entrants in transport. BYD in particular has hundreds of e-buses running in London, Amsterdam, etc., through its partnership with local bus builders.

For buyers considering Chinese commercial EVs, Maxus is the most accessible option with an established dealer network (often overlapping MG dealers since both are SAIC). Maxus offers 5-year/100,000 km warranty on its EVs and 8-year on batteries, and has service centers in most EU countries. The combination of relatively low price, decent range, and immediate availability has given Maxus a head-start; the eDeliver vans have already been adopted by courier companies looking to meet city zero-emission zones. As more European manufacturers bring electric vans to market, Maxus is racing to solidify its presence – a bold example of a Chinese brand beating incumbents to a key segment.

Other Notable Chinese Brands & Models in Europe

Beyond the major players above, several other Chinese brands (some smaller, some ultra-premium) have begun selling vehicles in Europe, each targeting specific corners of the market:

  • AiwaysEV Startup on Rocky Ground. Aiways was one of the first Chinese EV startups to enter Europe (starting with Germany in 2020). Their U5, a mid-size electric SUV, offered a value proposition: €33,250 in Germany for a 63 kWh, 400 km-range crossover insideevs.com – about €7k cheaper than a VW ID.4 insideevs.com. The Aiways U6, a sportier “coupe SUV” style EV, followed at €48,178 in Germany insideevs.com. While the U5 and U6 earned some positive reviews for comfort and range, Aiways’ lack of brand recognition and sparse service network hurt sales. As of 2023, Aiways has faced financial trouble (production halted, staff layoffs) insideevs.com, casting doubt on its future insideevs.com. Some units are still available via importers, but buyer caution is advised given the uncertain support.
  • SeresAffordable Electric Crossovers. Seres (owned by Sokon/DFSK) has introduced two EVs in select European markets (like the Netherlands, Spain, Italy). The Seres 3 is a subcompact electric SUV (comparable to a Hyundai Kona) with a 53 kWh battery and ~329 km WLTP range insideevs.com. It’s priced around €37,995 in the Netherlands insideevs.com, making it a relatively affordable option. The styling and interior are simple, but it covers basics like a 10-inch touchscreen and fast charging. The larger Seres 5 is a SUV about the size of a Tesla Model Y, with a dual-motor option. Starting at €46,850 in Spain insideevs.com, the Seres 5 can go up to 500 km on a charge and packs an 80 kWh battery. While ~€4k pricier than a base Tesla Model Y, it offers slightly more range in top spec insideevs.com. Seres is still finding its footing, often selling via local partners (e.g., in Italy it’s rebadged as the DR 6.0 EV by DR Automobiles).
  • Dongfeng VoyahChinese Luxury EV. Voyah is the premium electric brand of Dongfeng Motor. It entered Switzerland and Norway in 2023 with the Voyah Free, a mid-size luxury SUV styled by Italy’s Italdesign insideevs.com. The Voyah Free has a 106.7 kWh battery, dual motors (360 kW), and is priced from CHF 69,990 in Switzerland insideevs.com (~€70k). It’s a 5-seater that can accelerate 0–100 km/h in 4.4s and features a tri-screen dashboard. Voyah also has a sedan (Voyah Passion) and MPV (Voyah Dream) which could follow. Being state-owned, Dongfeng is taking a cautious approach – testing the waters in smaller markets first.
  • HongqiChina’s Oldest Luxury Marque. Hongqi (meaning “Red Flag”) by FAW Group is known as the limo brand for Chinese officials. Its first global model, the Hongqi E-HS9, is an all-electric full-size SUV akin to a Rolls-Royce Cullinan in presence. In Norway (its debut market), the E-HS9 starts at NOK 699,900 insideevs.com (around €65,000) – astonishingly good for a massive 5.2m SUV with up to 7 seats. It offers a 99 or 120 kWh battery (range ~450–515 km) and dual motors up to 405 kW insideevs.com. With a stately chrome grille and opulent interior (massage seats, fridge, etc.), the E-HS9 attracted some Norwegian buyers looking for a unique luxury EV. Hongqi is now expanding to other EU locales in 2024. It’s a boutique choice – for those who want to stand out.
  • HiPhiUltra-High-Tech EVs. HiPhi is an exotic EV brand from Human Horizons, aimed at tech elites. They launched in Germany in 2022 with the HiPhi X, a futuristic SUV with coach doors, a unique light-up exterior, and a starting price around €109,000 insideevs.com. The X has a 97 kWh battery (~460 km range) and bizarre features like a touchscreen on the steering wheel. This was followed by the HiPhi Z, a low-slung electric GT with gullwing rear doors and a 120 kWh battery for ~555 km range insideevs.com. The Z costs about €105,000 in Europe insideevs.com. HiPhi made waves at auto shows for its radical design and claims of Level 4 autonomy hardware. However, as of late 2023 Human Horizons hit financial struggles and suspended operations amid cash flow issues insideevs.com. So while HiPhi cars turned heads, their continuity is in question – they remain rare sight (essentially tech showcases with a handful sold).
  • Others / Rebadged Entries: There are also European brand revivals and partnerships that mean Chinese-made cars are on sale under non-Chinese badges. For example, Smart (#1 and #3) – the new generation Smart EVs are built in China by Geely and use Chinese components, though sold under the Smart (Mercedes-Geely JV) brand. Dacia Spring, a popular entry-level EV in Europe, is actually made in China by Renault’s partner JAC. DR Automobiles in Italy rebrands Chery and BAIC models (selling them as DR or EVO cars). Micro Mobility’s Microlino (tiny EV) is made in China too. These aren’t “Chinese brands” per se, but they underscore how China’s automotive influence pervades even legacy European names insideevs.com.

In summary, Europe’s showroom floors in 2025 feature a truly wide spectrum of Chinese offerings – from £20k MG hatchbacks to six-figure HiPhi hyper-EVs. Buyers benefit from strong value propositions (usually more equipment for the money), and increasingly, local support networks as importers and dealerships mature. Warranty and support are crucial considerations – most Chinese brands match European norms (2-3 years minimum, many offering 5 years, and MG even 7 years news.mgmotor.eu). Battery warranties of 8 years/160,000 km are standard across EV models.

One should also consider factors like charging networks (Chinese EVs use the CCS standard in Europe, so no issue there) and software updates – companies like NIO and Xpeng are very software-centric, pushing frequent over-the-air updates, whereas smaller players may lag. Resale values for these newcomers are an open question, but as they establish a foothold, confidence is growing – for instance, MGs have started to hold value similar to European rivals thanks to strong demand.

Europe’s embrace of Chinese cars is accelerating, fueled by a combination of competitive pricing, EV innovation, and improving consumer perception. As the CEO of Stellantis (Peugeot’s parent) ominously noted, the entry of Chinese EVs in Europe is “a brutal scenario” for established automakers – but for consumers, it means more choice and bang for your buck. Whether it’s a budget EV or a luxury electric SUV, Chinese manufacturers are here, and they’re reshaping the market with an onslaught of models in every segment at practically every price point insideevs.com.

Sources:

  • InsideEVs – Detailed model-by-model rundown of Chinese EVs in Europe insideevs.com
  • Reuters – Updates on Chinese automakers’ European expansions and pricing (BYD, Chery, etc.) reuters.com
  • Motor1 – Analysis of Chery’s Omoda/Jaecoo launch plans and European pricing motor1.com
  • Electrify News/Carwow – Pricing for models like MG4, Lynk & Co 02, etc. carwow.co.uk, electrive.com
  • Manufacturer/press releases – Quotes and warranty information from brand representatives reuters.com, electrive.com, news.mgmotor.eu

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