Geely, a prominent Chinese carmaker, is contemplating the establishment of a plant in Europe, although they have not made a final commitment. Executives from the company revealed this information during interviews in Frankfurt, Germany.
While speaking to Reuters, Li Chuanhai, the vice-president of Geely Auto Group, stated that the decision is not definite yet. Geely is currently engaged in discussions with Poland’s new government regarding a potential joint electric vehicle plant, although there have been concerns raised about Geely being an ideal partner.
Nicolas Appelgren, the Europe CEO for Geely’s Lynk & Co brand, mentioned that Geely is exploring various locations across the region for potential plant sites. The company plans to launch a China-made battery-electric car in Italy soon, with the intention of producing the next battery-electric car in Europe.
Geely’s move to establish a base in Frankfurt to test “new energy vehicles” reflects the growing trend of Chinese carmakers like Chery and Great Wall Motor setting up local plants in Europe. This comes amid the European Commission’s plan for stricter trade barriers on EV imports.