Chinese car brands in Europe are growing

Just a few years ago, Chinese cars were a rare sight on European roads. Today, however, these vehicles are appearing more and more often even here in Slovakia. From well-known brands like MG to less familiar ones like Omoda, Chinese automakers now have a broader reach across Europe and offer vehicle versions for every purpose and every group. From small city hatchbacks to family SUVs, everyone can already find something for themselves among the available models.

Why are Chinese brands increasing so quickly?

In recent years, we’ve been experiencing radical changes in the automotive industry. These changes affect vehicles themselves, but they’re most visible in which cars are starting to dominate European roads. For a long time, we were used to seeing brands like Volkswagen, Škoda, Audi, BMW, or Peugeot, Citroën, and similar. But more and more, less familiar brands—or entirely new brands—are appearing in our market. These are mainly automakers from China. And why are they growing so fast? The main factor in this story is price. These automakers have quickly and easily undercut the prices set by European brands. Chinese premium models in top trims are becoming far more accessible compared to mid-range model lines from European manufacturers. The arrival of dealers for these brands has also helped build a network of authorized service centers for these vehicles, so future owners no longer need to worry that no one would be able to service their car if needed. Low price, service availability, and a wide selection of models are exactly the factors pushing these previously unknown brands onto the roads more and more.

Which Chinese brands does Europe notice the most today?

There are many brands on the Chinese market that have also found their way into Europe. The biggest boom was sparked by MG, which arrived with the 3, HS, and ZS models. After its arrival, it became clear that Europeans have no problem swapping domestic production for foreign brands, and just as MG entered our market, we could also see the arrival of brands like Dongfeng, BYD, Omoda, Jaecoo, and Hongqi.

MG has a rich history that goes back to the United Kingdom. That’s where it was founded, and it made its biggest name in rally with the MG Metro 4. Today, it is owned by the Chinese automotive giant SAIC Motor, thanks to which the brand has gained a second wind and established itself in the European market. In our market, the brand has positioned itself as affordable, with modern technologies and attractive design.

BYD is among the world’s largest battery manufacturers. The strength of this brand is also confirmed by the fact that it has overtaken Tesla in EV sales. In Slovakia, the brand plans to build 10 sales locations, and with its models it targets various segments—from city hatchbacks to family SUVs.

Hongqi, translated as “Red Flag,” is a brand known in China for producing government limousines. Now, however, it is also opening its doors to the wider public, bringing luxury and technological solutions at an affordable price.

Dongfeng is among the four largest automakers in China. It also helps manufacture vehicles for Nissan and Renault. Thanks to its technological background and a wide portfolio of vehicles, it enjoys great success in the European market.

Omoda and Jaecoo are newcomers when it comes to entering our market. However, the same can’t be said about their reputation at home, where they aim primarily at younger drivers. Both brands belong to the Chery group.

How we’re adapting: new patterns, new models, the same standard

Changes in the automotive market, the arrival of new brands, the departure of old ones, and shifts in drivers’ preferences—these are all factors that influence us and help us focus on what’s currently trending. In this case, we’re once again ready to provide you with durable, stylish, tailor-made protective solutions for your interior. Our portfolio currently includes MG and BYD, but the above-mentioned brands will be joining them soon.

The price of these vehicles is often reflected in the materials used—especially in the interior. Since many drivers prefer Alcantara over leather, or leather over textile, everyone can find exactly what they want with us.

How to choose the right interior protection?

When choosing your new custom interior, it’s important to pay attention to selecting materials, colors, and stitching combinations. With us, you can choose from more than 1 million combinations of colors and materials. And if you happen not to drive one of the new Chinese vehicles, don’t worry—our portfolio includes more than 8,700 vehicle models, so you’ll definitely find yours.