Chery Commercial Vehicles Sets Up European HQ in the UK
Bottom line: Chinese car maker Chery is opening a European headquarters in Liverpool to lead research and development for its electric commercial vehicles across Europe.
Chery Commercial Vehicles Opens European HQ in Liverpool – Impact on EV Vans
Image: Chery Commercial Vehicles Opens European HQ in Liverpool – Impact on EV Vans – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Why Liverpool?
Chery chose Liverpool because the city offers a strong engineering talent pool and excellent transport links. Local officials say the move will create hundreds of jobs and give the region a new high‑tech hub.
R&D Focus and Job Creation
The new site is purely a research and development centre – no manufacturing will happen there. All production will stay in China, but engineers in Liverpool will adapt vans, pickups and buses to meet European safety, emissions and customer expectations. Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief Mike Hawes urged new entrants to use the UK supply chain wherever possible, and Chery says it plans to do just that.
Product Line Targeting Europe
Chery’s commercial vehicle portfolio includes several electric models that could soon roll out in the EU:
- Wanda electric buses
- Rely R8 electric pickup
- Karry EV, EX7, ET8 electric vans and trucks
While Chery also builds diesel lorries under the C&C brand, those are unlikely to be part of the European push because EU markets are leaning heavily toward zero‑emission solutions.
Key Model Snapshot
| Engine | Mileage | Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric motor (150 kW) | ≈200 miles (WLTP) | ≈£45,000 |
|
FAQ
- Will Chery build any vehicles in the UK? No, the Liverpool site is dedicated to R&D. Production will continue in China.
- What electric commercial models will be sold in Europe first? Chery expects the Rely R8 pickup and Karry EV vans to be the initial offerings.
- How many jobs will the new hub create? Local officials estimate several hundred positions, ranging from engineers to support staff.
What do you think about a Chinese EV van maker setting up shop in the UK? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
