Traditional Chinese manufacturer Dongfeng Motor has launched its new low-cost electric vehicle in Europe to compete with carmakers such as Volkswagen. With a starting price of around $25,500 (£19,615), the Dongfeng Nammi Box EV is already one of the most affordable electric vehicles in Europe.

Meet the new low-cost Chinese electric vehicle for Europe

Dongfeng is one of the oldest and largest automobile manufacturers in China. After FAW, it was the second state-owned car brand.

Although Dongfeng builds vehicles for Nissan and Stellantis in China, the automaker has joined a recent wave of Chinese brands such as BYD and NIO expanding into foreign markets.

After launching its Nammi Box EV in Switzerland, Dongfeng will now conquer Europe. With a starting price of 21,990 CHF or around 25,500 USD, the inexpensive Chinese electric car is already one of the cheapest electric cars in Europe.

Despite new EU tariffs on Chinese electric car imports, the Nammi Box could be one of the first vehicles built at Dongfeng’s potential Italian plant.

A source said Reuters Earlier this month, it was said that talks between Dongfeng and the Italian government were “at an advanced stage.” The plant could help the automaker avoid expensive tariffs.

The new Nammi Box will compete in Europe with low-cost electric vehicles such as the Citroen e-C3, which starts at around $27,300 (£21,035).

Powered by a 42.3 kWh battery, the Nammi achieves a WLTP range of up to 310 km. The e-C3 manages up to 320 km with a 44 kWh battery. Although a smaller battery option (31.5 kWh) is available in China, it is not expected to be offered in Europe.

According to Dongfeng’s website, the Nammi Box can currently be reserved starting at 21,990 CHF (25,500 $).

Dongfeng’s premium brand Voyah plans to launch a new electric SUV called Zhiyin for export next month, according to CEO Lu Fang.

DongFeng joins a growing list of Chinese automakers launching new electric car models in Europe, including BYD, Chery, GWM and NIO, to name a few.

Today, BYD launched its new 2025 Song Plus EV, which starts at $21,000 in China, making it the latest low-cost electric car on the market. The price war for electric cars in China is prompting automakers like Dongfeng to look overseas for growth.

Source: Autocar, Dongfeng Motor