Explore how Chinese car brands are expanding in Vietnam for 2026, from luxury Zeekr to mass-market BYD. Discover the latest strategies – read now!
2026: A Pivotal Year for Chinese Automakers in Vietnam
After a bustling 2025 that welcomed a wave of new entrants, 2026 is set to be the year Chinese manufacturers deepen their footprint in Vietnam. From premium EVs to locally assembled compact cars, each brand is testing a distinct formula to win over Vietnamese drivers.
Zeekr – The First Luxury EV from China
Geely’s upscale marque Zeekr, previously known for pure‑electric models, is preparing a soft launch in partnership with Tasco. The brand will debut the Zeekr 7X SUV and the 009 MPV, both offered as plug‑in hybrids that pair a modest gasoline engine with an electric motor. This dual‑power strategy aims at families and affluent buyers who remain wary of range‑limited EVs.
Key models slated for launch
- Zeekr 7X – family‑friendly SUV with hybrid powertrain.
- Zeekr 009 – luxury MPV designed as a premium showcase.
- Future plug‑in hybrid 9X – rumored follow‑up to broaden the lineup.
Rather than a hard‑sell, Zeekr plans a gradual market entry, building brand awareness before entering the sales race.
Lotus – A High‑Performance Play
Tasco also brings the legendary Lotus sports car to Vietnam, positioning it as a high‑end alternative to German marques. While the sports‑car segment has historically been dominated by European brands and registers modest volumes, Lotus hopes to attract enthusiasts who value brand heritage and performance.
Given the niche nature of the segment, Lotus is unlikely to become a volume driver; instead, it serves to round out Geely’s portfolio and reinforce its premium image.
Lynk & Co – Premium Yet Pragmatic
Lynk & Co, Geely’s semi‑independent brand, targets the B‑segment SUV market with the Lynk & Co 06. The model competes against a crowded field that includes Mitsubishi Xforce, VinFast VF 6, Toyota Yaris Cross, and Kia Seltos.
Although the 06 offers a stylish design and a mix of electric and hybrid options, breaking through the intense competition will be challenging.
Geely – Balancing Mass‑Market and Upscale
Geely’s flagship for 2026 remains the Coolray SUV, but the model faces stiff competition from both local and foreign rivals. Its siblings, the EX5 and the Monjaro, cater to higher‑end buyers and lack mass‑market appeal.
In the long run, Geely could benefit from a refreshed Coolray or a cost‑effective electric EX5, especially as Tasco expands charging infrastructure.
Omoda & Jaecoo – Local Assembly as a Growth Engine
The Geleximco‑Chery joint venture is racing to complete Vietnam’s first Chinese car plant. With around 40 dealerships already in place, the strategy focuses on locally assembled models to lower prices and build consumer trust.
Current offerings such as the Omoda C5 and Jaecoo J7 need timely updates; a domestically produced, well‑priced model could be the catalyst for wider market penetration.
BYD – Shifting Towards Plug‑in Hybrids
BYD sold nearly 5,000 units in 2025, leading the Chinese‑brand segment. While pure‑electric models like the Sealion series dominate city streets, the company is now introducing four new models in 2026, half of which are plug‑in hybrids.
The hybrid push aims to capture buyers who find full EVs still out of reach, while a rapid dealer rollout (targeting 100 stores by year‑end) seeks to accelerate market presence.
MG – Facing a Downturn
After a strong 2024, MG’s performance slipped in 2025, with its local partner PTM reporting a 72 % profit decline. The MG G50 MPV struggled against the VinFast Limo Green and BYD M6, highlighting the difficulty of competing on price alone.
Without fresh tactics, MG may continue to lose ground as newer Chinese entrants roll out more compelling line‑ups.
The Bigger Picture: Competition, Infrastructure, and Consumer Trust
Vietnam is no longer a low‑cost playground for Chinese carmakers. Brands that invest in local production, charging networks, and long‑term product pipelines—such as Geleximco, Tasco, and BYD—are better positioned for sustainable growth. Those relying solely on price cuts or inventory clearance risk fading quickly.
Ultimately, success will hinge on persistence, consumer confidence, and the ability to adapt to a market that is both crowded and increasingly discerning.