Chinese Auto Brands Garner Favor at Auto Athina 2026_Cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European Countries

Chinese Auto Brands Garner Favor at Auto Athina 2026

Xinhua

2026/10/13

XINHUA, Athens, Oct. 11 (Reporters Liu Baiyun, Chen Gang) — The nine-day Auto Athina 2026 concluded on the 11th in Athens, capital of Greece. Multiple Chinese automobile brands made a high-profile appearance with new models and cutting-edge technologies, becoming a major highlight of the event.

Running from October 3 to 11 at the Athens Metropolitan Exhibition Center, this year’s expo featured a record-high 52 automobile brands. More than 10 Chinese brands including BYD, MG, Geely and Changan showcased products covering battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and commercial vehicles. Chinese automakers brought new models tailored for the Greek and broader European markets, drawing attention from local consumers.

Kouris, a visitor at the BYD booth, said Chinese automobiles have high quality with competitive prices, and he hoped to learn more about Chinese auto brands through the show.

Ioannou, who visited the Chery booth, told reporters that driving experience was his top priority. He noted that Chinese cars feature responsive steering, excellent braking performance and a smooth ride, are equipped with multiple advanced technologies, and come at affordable prices, giving them strong market competitiveness.

In recent years, Chinese auto brands have been growing their influence in the Greek market. Kakouris, PR manager of a Greek auto dealer, told reporters that since the Chinese brands represented by his company entered the Greek market in March 2024, over 6,000 battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles have been registered locally.

As the electrification transition of the automobile market continues apace, Greek consumers’ demand for new energy vehicles is also evolving. According to statistics, from January to August this year, battery electric vehicles accounted for 6.7 percent of all newly registered passenger cars in Greece, up 1.4 percentage points from the same period last year.

Spanos, CEO of a Greek auto dealership, said that as Chinese automakers entered the Greek market, they have taken full account of local market characteristics, launching both battery electric and hybrid models to meet diverse consumer needs. Chinese auto brands are gaining increasing recognition from Greek consumers.