Chery is set to become the first Chinese vehicle manufacturer in Europe as it finalizes plans to establish its presence in the Barcelona Free Zone. The electric car production company has shown interest in the land previously occupied by Nissan, which will be reused as part of the reindustrialization process initiated after Nissan’s decision to close its factory in mid-2020.
Various negotiations are underway with the Ministry of Industry to solidify the agreement for Chery to use the factory for assembling its vehicles. An event is expected to be held in Barcelona at the end of next week to officially announce the agreement with Chery.
The reindustrialization process for the land previously owned by Nissan has faced challenges and setbacks. Silence, an electric motorcycle manufacturer, entered the site in 2022 followed by discussions with Chery. Recent agreements have been made to address financing issues and ensure the relocation of former Nissan workers. Plans are in place for Chery to manufacture electric car models, including the Omoda 5, and for LOAN to produce its line of electric vehicles at the Free Trade Zone plant. Additionally, a temporary employment regulation file has been agreed upon by the majority of unions and management at Silence due to decreased demand in electric mobility.
