Investing.com -- Chinese automaker Changan plans to build a factory in Europe to support its future sales on the continent, a company executive said on Wednesday.
"We’re committed to being in Europe, making in Europe for Europe," said Nic Thomas, Changan’s European head of marketing, sales and service, during a test drive of the automaker’s electric Deepal S07 SUV at an event outside London. "We’re working on local manufacturing solutions here."
Thomas indicated that the company is already evaluating potential locations for the plant. While he did not provide specific timing for when the European assembly plant might be built, he noted that planning is already underway based on expected sales volumes.
In March, Changan announced plans to enter 10 European markets this year with its electric vehicle models.
Thomas, who also oversees Changan’s UK operations, said the company will begin selling the Deepal S07 to British consumers this year, with deliveries scheduled to start in September.