Since Audi confirmed that no new models would be allocated to its historic plant in Forest (Brussels) in Belgium, the site has been in a state of expectation. But many candidates could potentially take it over.
For a few weeks now, European Union imposes additional customs duties on vehicles imported from China.
Chinese brands seek to establish themselves permanently in Europe
Even if they are ultimately fewer than expected to be hit with the maximum rate, this is forcing automobile groups to review their plans. And Chinese groups to consider “local” production. Thus, Geely joins the list of contenders for a production site in Europe. The brand already has one of course via its Volvo brand, notably very close to here, in Ghent in Belgium. But it wants to strengthen its positions to produce other brands in its galaxy, notably Smart, which would perhaps make their prices more competitive, but also Zeekr, who plays the Arlesienne, or Lynk&CoThe manufacturer is currently in advanced discussions with the Polish authorities, but Li Chuanhai, vice-president of the Geely group, confirms that “nothing is yet 100% certain”, adding that there are many possibilities. So all eyes are obviously on the Audi Brussels factory at the moment.. Since The German brand has announced that no new models will be assigned to itthe site and its workers are in expectation. And The takeover by a Chinese manufacturer would be seen as almost providentialIn any case, what is happening in Forest has certainly not escaped the Chinese leaders.
SAIC, Dongfeng, Changan, GreatWall?
Geely is not the only Chinese option that could be offered to the Brussels plant. SAIC, owner of MG and Maxus, is also known to be looking for a European site. The persistent rumors indicate that Spain as a preferred sitebut nothing has been officially announced yet. And the Nissan plant in Barcelona has been sold to its competitor Chery. BYD, for its part, preferred Hungary as its European hub.. But there are also Dongfeng, Changan and GreatWall Motors, which rumours also say are keen to set up in Europe. Even if we will probably have to wait and see the commercial results and sustainability for them here, as their volumes are for the moment anecdotal.
However, Audi Brussels is not the only European factory in turmoil. In Italy, Stellantis is known to be in discussions about the future of certain sites, which have overcapacity. In Germany, Volkswagen is now talking about closing certain factories, which could therefore be free soon. And In the Netherlands, the VDL factory with a capacity of 200,000 vehicles per year has been vacant since last spring. and the last Mini rolls off the assembly line.
So nothing is done, far from it!
