Chinese car giant Chery to open base in UK

Chinese company Chery Commercial Vehicle (CCV) is to establish its first European headquarters in Liverpool – one of the most significant projects for the city’s advanced manufacturing sector in recent years. The move positions Liverpool city region at the forefront of Europe’s fast-growing electric vehicle sector, and the new headquarters will act as the central hub for CCV’s European operations, supporting research, engineering, innovation and commercial development from within Liverpool.

Liverpool has a proud automotive heritage, and this announcement further strengthens the city’s reputation as a hub for world leading engineering and vehicle innovation. Chery Commercial Vehicle’s arrival is expected to create high value jobs across engineering, software development, research and development and operational roles, contributing significantly to the region’s skilled workforce. It will also stimulate deeper collaboration with Liverpool’s research partners and innovation centres, helping to connect global expertise with local research strengths.

In addition, the collaboration will expand opportunities for local suppliers within the advanced manufacturing supply chain, reinforcing Liverpool city region’s position in a sector that continues to evolve at pace. The partnership is also set to accelerate the exchange of knowledge in electric, autonomous, and new energy commercial vehicle technologies, supporting the city’s ambition to lead on the next generation of sustainable transport and industrial innovation.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Chery Commercial Vehicle’s landmark decision to base its European headquarters in our city region is a fantastic vote of confidence in our advanced manufacturing and green innovation sectors. This move will create high quality jobs and long-term economic benefits, helping to further strengthen our region’s reputation at the forefront of cleaner, smarter transport.

“The Combined Authority has worked very closely with Liverpool City Council and Chery Commercial Vehicle to help make this investment possible, and we’ll continue to support Chery Commercial Vehicle’s plans for further growth, so it delivers lasting benefits for communities and businesses across our region.”

Sustainable and connected future
Councillor Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Chery Commercial Vehicle’s choice of Liverpool for its commercial vehicle European base is a major vote of confidence in our city’s capabilities, our workforce and our long-term vision for clean, inclusive growth. This partnership has the potential to reshape the future of the car manufacturing sector in our city region – bringing new technologies, new skills and new opportunities to Liverpool and beyond. Liverpool’s ties with China – especially our enduring friendship with Shanghai – are long established and deeply valued. Chery Commercial Vehicle’s arrival builds on that history, strengthening our global links while helping us deliver a sustainable and connected future.”

Chery Commercial Vehicle’s intention to expand for full localisation — covering products, research, engineering, talent and commercial partnerships – means the company intends to integrate deeply into the UK automotive ecosystem. The headquarters will also act as a landing point for joint ventures and new energy technology demonstrations across the region.

Chery Commercial Vehicle is one of China’s most internationally recognised automotive exporters and is leading innovation in next-generation commercial vehicles, including electric, hydrogen and autonomous platforms. Through cutting-edge innovation and its Future Super Commercial Plan (FSC-P), Chery Commercial Vehicle is committed to leading the next major transformation in the commercial vehicle industry. Its choice of Liverpool signals the city’s growing prominence as a European centre for green mobility, data driven engineering and sustainable industry.

Liverpool City Council and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will work closely with Chery Commercial Vehicle, regional partners and national government to ensure the project delivers lasting social and economic benefits for residents and businesses across the city and wider region. Liverpool and China share a relationship stretching back more than 190 years, including Liverpool’s long-standing connection with Shanghai, one of its closest international partner cities.

Historic trade routes
From historic trade routes to modern academic and business collaborations, the relationship between Liverpool and Chinese cities has helped shape the city’s global identity and local community. Chery Commercial Vehicle’s decision to come to Liverpool adds a new chapter to this shared history – bringing contemporary industrial cooperation that supports green growth, new technologies and international trade.

Gong Yueqiong, general manager of Chery Commercial Vehicle, said: “We are not just bringing products to the UK — we are building a British business. Our ‘In UK, For UK, Be UK’ strategy reflects our belief that true globalisation comes from deep localisation. By recruiting local talent, collaborating with UK institutions, and adapting to local needs, we aim to become a valued contributor to the UK’s automotive industry and economy.

“Our strategy reflects our confidence in the UK’s talent, infrastructure, and commitment to green technology. Liverpool offers the perfect environment for Chery Commercial Vehicle’s European ambitions. Our goal is to become a responsible corporate citizen, fully integrated into the local community.”

Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle, concluded: “Chery Commercial Vehicle’s (CCV) choosing Liverpool as their European HQ is a major vote of confidence in the UK, showcasing exactly the kind of high value, future focused manufacturing we are determined to grow. Their commitment to cutting edge R&D and deepening UK supply chains reflects the ambition of our Modern Industrial Strategy, helping us to build a more competitive and resilient automotive sector.”