Chery has confirmed plans to establish a European headquarters for its commercial vehicle business in Liverpool as the Chinese group expands into the UK and European light commercial vehicle markets.

The new base will support Chery Commercial Vehicle (CCV) operations in Europe by bringing together research and development, engineering, and commercial functions. While no opening date or specific site has yet been confirmed, the move is expected to create a number of skilled jobs in the region.

Chery’s existing Karry-branded electric light commercial vehicles are the most likely candidates to spearhead any future UK market entry. Two models in particular — the EV8 and EV6 — are purpose-built eLCVs, suggesting the company sees the zero-emissions LCV segment as a strategic priority should UK production or local distribution expand. While neither model has been confirmed for the UK, their presence in Chery’s portfolio points to a likely direction of travel.

Chery Karry EV8 could be coming to Liverpool

The announcement was made as Prime Minister Keir Starmer concluded a trade visit to China, where automotive investment and export opportunities were part of wider discussions between the UK and Chinese governments. However, no manufacturing agreement linked to the Liverpool decision has been formally announced.

Chery already has a growing footprint in the UK passenger car market through its own Chery brand, alongside the Omoda and Jaecoo brands, with a fourth brand, Lepas, confirmed for launch in 2026External link image. The Liverpool base represents its first confirmed European headquarters focused specifically on commercial vehicles.

The announcement has been linked to ongoing talks between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover around potential vehicle production in the UK, possibly using spare capacity at JLR’s Halewood plant on Merseyside. Chery and JLR already have a long-standing relationship through their joint venture in China, which builds Jaguar Land Rover models for the local market.

However, neither company has confirmed any UK manufacturing agreement. While the Liverpool HQ strengthens Chery’s UK presence, it should not be seen as confirmation of a production deal.

Liverpool City Council welcomed the decision, describing it as a vote of confidence in the city’s advanced manufacturing credentials and automotive supply chain. The region already hosts other major automotive operations, including JLR’s Halewood plant, Ford’s powertrain facilities, and Stellantis’ Ellesmere Port van factory.

Phil Huff
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