The Chinese company Chery Automobile has begun the production of vehicles from the joint venture established with the Spanish Ebro-EV Motors at the former Nissan factory in the Free Trade Zone of Barcelona.
The first vehicle produced at the factory will be the Ebro s700 SUV, followed by another SUV, the s800, in the coming weeks. The production of these models coincides with the 70th anniversary of the historic Spanish brand, which is now being revived by the Chinese company Chery.
The production of the new models will be developed in two phases. In the first phase, which has just started, the models will only be assembled at the Barcelona factory; however, starting in 2025, the production unit will also carry out welding, painting, and complete assembly processes. This advancement will allow for the integration of the local supplier network, thereby strengthening the value chain and positively impacting the local industrial fabric.
It is already known that the new Ebro SUVs will feature plug-in hybrid and gasoline engine options. The plug-in hybrids will be equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine combined with an electric motor, offering a power output of 350 hp and an electric range of 90 km.
On the other hand, the combustion versions, with front-wheel drive, will utilize a 1.6-liter turbo gasoline engine producing 150 hp and a maximum torque of 275 Nm, which is coupled with an automatic transmission.
“The Ebro brand has deep cultural roots and historical significance in Spain. Chery and Ebro are joining forces to combine the strengths of companies from both countries and are committed to transforming the Ebro brand into Spain’s leading national automotive brand”, said Tongyue Yin, President of Chery Automobile.
It is worth noting that Chery and the Spanish company EV-Motors signed an agreement in April to explore the former Nissan factory in Catalonia. The two companies have created a joint venture, which allows the Chinese manufacturer to establish a production unit in Europe.
In a statement, EV Motors clarified that the start of production will help recover some of the 1,600 direct jobs that were lost with the closure of the Nissan factory in 2021.
