Chinese automaker Chery will begin vehicle production in Spain “as soon as possible” this year. A top executive confirmed the plan on Friday. This marks Chery’s first manufacturing plant in Europe—though it has faced repeated delays.
The company originally planned to start in Barcelona in 2024. Later, it pushed the date to late 2025. Now, production will begin sometime in 2026. Commercial challenges caused the setbacks. These include EU tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs).
Despite the delays, Chery remains committed. Zhu Shaodong, its EU CEO, said the company is still “revving up” its Barcelona plans. He would not name a specific quarter. But he stressed production would start “as soon as possible” in 2026.
The plant is a joint venture with Spanish carmaker Ebro. Ebro had stopped selling cars in 1987 but relaunched in 2024. The factory sits in a former Nissan site. Both companies share technology and a production platform.
Local officials have praised the investment. They see it as a sign of stronger Spain-China ties. It also highlights Spain’s role as Europe’s second-largest car producer.
Chery will first build its Omoda 5 SUV in Barcelona. It will make both electric and combustion versions. Later, it will add the Jaecoo 7 model. Importantly, the plant will also serve Latin American markets.
In 2024, the partners set a target: 150,000 vehicles per year by 2029. They aim to make Barcelona one of Chery’s main global export hubs.
This push comes as Chinese brands gain share in Spain. A global EV price war has helped them grow. Yet EU trade barriers remain a hurdle. Local production could help Chery avoid tariffs and build trust in Europe.
Overall, the Chery Spain production launch—though delayed—shows a long-term commitment. By making cars in Europe, Chery aims to serve the region and expand its global reach from Spanish soil.
