GWM (HKEX: 2333) plans to establish a production base in Bulgaria, with the first vehicle expected to roll off the line in the first quarter of 2027, advancing its efforts to localize production in Europe.
The company will partner with Bulgarian Automotive Industry (BAI) on the base in Lovech, according to a statement GWM released on Wednesday.
Upgrades to the plant's production lines are scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, enabling new energy vehicle (NEV) production. The facility will have a planned annual capacity of 50,000 vehicles, with the Ora 5 as its first production model.
GWM chief technology officer Wu Huixiao disclosed the plan on October 27 at the launch of the GWM H7 in Milan, Italy.
The project provides a concrete timeline for GWM's manufacturing plans in Europe and will connect with its existing research and development and sales networks, extending its local operations from selling imported vehicles to producing them locally.
GWM said the Bulgarian base will link up with its distribution networks in markets including Italy, Spain and the Netherlands, while serving as a base for further localization of its European supply chain.
The company also plans to develop an industrial park in Europe integrating vehicle and component production, and gradually expand its product lineup in response to market demand. It did not disclose a construction timeline for the park.
Under its latest plan, GWM will introduce at least 10 new models and variants in Europe over the next 2 years, broadening its lineup to meet local consumer needs.
Source link







