Chinese automaker Chery buys Nissan plant in Africa as EV production shifts to new markets
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) -- Chinese automakers are increasingly shifting from exporting vehicles to building them in Africa, betting that rapid urbanizatio
Nairobi, Kenya (AP) -- Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery has acquired a former Nissan plant in South Africa, signaling the company's shift towards manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) on the continent. The acquisition of Nissan's Rosslyn plant near Pretoria is part of a broader strategy by Chinese automakers to build vehicles closer to African consumers, rather than relying on imports.
Analysts believe this move could reshape Africa's automotive industry by creating jobs, developing local supply chains, and accelerating the adoption of EVs. Countries such as South Africa, Morocco, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Ghana are seen as prime locations for Chinese EV investment due to their industrial capacity, supportive policies, or growing electricity infrastructure.
Experts predict that local manufacturing could eventually lower vehicle prices and stimulate investment in charging infrastructure, component manufacturing, and battery production. Rapid urbanization, rising incomes, and the affordability of Chinese brands are contributing to the growing accessibility of new vehicles for African consumers.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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