Chinese automaker Chery has opened a new research and development centre in Paris aimed at supporting the development of future compact urban vehicles for its Omoda and Jaecoo brands in the European market.
The new site will focus on B-segment models as part of Chery’s broader expansion strategy in Europe, complementing its existing engineering and design centre in Raunheim, Germany. The Paris facility will concentrate on adapting vehicles to European customer preferences, regulatory requirements, and local market conditions.
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“The new R&D centre in Paris is an important step in expanding our engineering capabilities in Europe. Together with our development sites in Raunheim and Barcelona, we can align our vehicles even more closely with the expectations of European customers, regulatory requirements, and the dynamics of individual markets,” said Jochen Tüting, Managing Director of Chery Europe GmbH.
Chery said the Paris centre will leverage France’s automotive and engineering ecosystem, including access to testing facilities, regulatory expertise, and design talent. The move is intended to strengthen the company’s local development capabilities as it scales its operations across Europe.
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Hanbang Yu, Chief Executive Officer of Chery Group in France, said the investment reflects a long-term commitment to the region. “The opening of this R&D centre in Paris sends a clear signal: we are not in a test phase—we are building a long-term presence here,” Yu said.
“France is one of Europe’s most demanding markets and requires a precise understanding of usage scenarios, customer needs, and regulatory requirements. That is why we are adopting a locally anchored development approach and building a comprehensive presence with engineering, industrial partnerships, services, and proximity to our customers,” he added.
Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo brands have already begun entering European markets with plug-in hybrid models, including the Jaecoo 7 PHEV and Omoda 9 PHEV. Since their initial launch in Spain in March 2024, the brands have expanded into the United Kingdom, Italy, and Hungary, with a German market entry expected soon.
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While the company has not confirmed specific powertrain details for the upcoming compact models, it indicated that electrification will play a central role, potentially including both battery-electric and hybrid configurations.
The Paris centre adds to Chery’s global R&D network, which includes seven facilities across China, Europe, and Latin America. The company said it is positioning itself as a leading exporter, having sold 2.6 million vehicles in 2025, including 1.3 million units outside China.
Source: Electrive
