Chinese car manufacturer began production of cars in Russia at three factories that previously owned Western companies, including Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. This step testifies to the expansion of Chinese car manufacturers in the Russian market, especially after most Western competitors have left the country because of a full -scale invasion of Ukraine.
According to Reuters, Chinese car manufacturers now control more than half of the Russian car market in terms of sales. Against the background of reducing the production of cars by Western companies, Chery is expanding its activities, seeking to take high demand for a car in Russia. In particular, the company imports almost ready -made cars, which it then collects in three Russian plants, which allows it to optimize production.
Chery occupies about 20% of the car market in Russia. Previously owned Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan factories, the company produces popular models such as TIGGO SUV and Exeed. For example, the St. Petersburg Automobile Plant belonging to the Nissan, Tiggo 7 received rebranding and is now known as the XCITE X-Cross 7. This brand has become the best new brand of Russia, and 3 447 cars were sold since production in January.
Chery and Russian manufacturers seek to minimize public publicity about their production, as China's cooperation with Russia is concerned about the West. Western countries are actively trying to prevent sanctions, and attention is increasing.
According to the Russian Autostat Analytical Agency, in 2023 Chery, along with the Exeed and Omoda brands, almost four times increased the sales of new cars in Russia compared to 2022, reaching a little more than 200,000 cars. In 2024, this figure was already exceeded.
However, despite the success in the Russian market, Chery representatives reported that the company has no plans to build or buy new factories in Russia. After the European Union is introduced by the tariffs for imports of electric vehicles from China, Chery may also face additional duties.
