First Chinese lockdown in Europe – Which company is closing its doors and laying off workers?

The business career of a Chinese car manufacturer on European soil has proven difficult.

Determined to move its stagnant waters European automobile market she Chinese car manufacturing companies That started Flooding of the ancient continent Presenting models who seem capable of… looking those traditional forces in the eye.

In fact, Chinese manufacturers are signing up Very good commercial performance In Europe, where consumers have given their models a vote of confidence, especially since the vehicles’ high-quality features are also accompanied reasonable prices.

However, not all Chinese automakers are “lucky” enough to create one success story, With a typical example Great Wall Engine (GWM), headquartered in Baoding, which is reportedly preparing…to put in place “a lock” In its offices in Europe.

In particular, it appears that it will close its existing central facilities Munich And yes Laying off all employees There, including the management team, which means that decisions will be made from the head office in Baoding.

It should be noted that Great Wall Motors operates through various subsidiaries such as Ora, Haval, and Wey.

It appears that a shutdown has been scheduled End of AugustWhile the total number of employees working in Munich is about 100 employees.

GWM models will continue to be sold in Europe, but the company’s plans to expand into more European markets have been cancelled.

The brand planned to enter the markets of Spain, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Iceland and Bulgaria.

The decision to “close” its European headquarters appears to be due to the poor commercial performance on our continent. In markets outside China, the brand will be sold in 2023 316,018 cars (+82.5% compared to 2022), but its sales in Europe It was limited to only 6.300.

One of the most popular models of the brand is No. 03a medium-sized hatchback in length 4.235 mmWidth 1,825 mm. Its height is 1,603 mm. With luggage space of up to 228 litres.

Its basic equipment includes, among others, automatic air conditioning, a central armrest with storage space, a 360-degree camera, an integrated screen for the multimedia system and the instrument panel, while the package of safety and assistance systems is also completed.

The basic version is supported by one Electric motor with 171 hp and 250 Nmfrom which it derives energy battery Energy capacity 48 kWh This ensures a range of up to 310 km (city and highway).

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