Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery Commercial Vehicle (CCV) has confirmed plans to establish its first European headquarters in Liverpool, marking one of the most significant investments in the city’s advanced manufacturing sector in recent years.
The move places Liverpool City Region at the forefront of Europe’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle market. The new headquarters will act as the central hub for CCV’s European operations, supporting research, engineering, innovation and commercial development from within the city.
Liverpool’s proud automotive and engineering heritage continues to evolve, and this announcement further strengthens the city’s reputation as a home for world-leading vehicle innovation and next-generation manufacturing.
Chery Commercial Vehicle’s arrival is expected to create high-value jobs across engineering, software development, research and development, and operational roles, helping to grow the region’s skilled workforce. The investment will also encourage closer collaboration with Liverpool’s universities, research institutions and innovation centres, connecting global expertise with local strengths.
The project is set to generate new opportunities for local suppliers within the advanced manufacturing supply chain, reinforcing the Liverpool City Region’s position in a sector undergoing rapid technological change.
The partnership will also accelerate the exchange of knowledge in electric, autonomous and new-energy commercial vehicle technologies, supporting Liverpool’s ambition to lead the way in sustainable transport and industrial innovation.
Chery Commercial Vehicle’s plans include full localisation across products, research, engineering, talent and commercial partnerships, signalling a long-term commitment to the UK automotive ecosystem. The European headquarters will also serve as a landing point for joint ventures and live demonstrations of new energy technologies across the region.
One of China’s most internationally recognised automotive exporters, Chery Commercial Vehicle is at the forefront of innovation in electric, hydrogen and autonomous commercial vehicles. Through its Future Super Commercial Plan (FSC-P), the company is driving the next major transformation of the global commercial vehicle industry. Its decision to choose Liverpool highlights the city’s growing status as a European centre for green mobility, data-driven engineering and sustainable industry.
Liverpool City Council and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority will work closely with Chery Commercial Vehicle, regional partners and national government to ensure the project delivers long-term economic and social benefits for residents and businesses across the city region.
Liverpool and China share a relationship spanning more than 190 years, including Liverpool’s longstanding connection with Shanghai, one of the city’s closest international partner cities.
From historic trade routes to modern academic and business collaboration, this relationship has played a key role in shaping Liverpool’s global identity. Chery Commercial Vehicle’s decision to locate in Liverpool opens a new chapter in that shared history – bringing modern industrial cooperation that supports green growth, advanced technologies and international trade.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said:
“Chery Commercial Vehicle’s choice of Liverpool for its commercial vehicle European base is a major vote of confidence in our city’s capabilities, our workforce and our long-term vision for clean, inclusive growth.
“This partnership has the potential to reshape the future of the car manufacturing sector in our city region – bringing new technologies, new skills and new opportunities to Liverpool and beyond.
“Liverpool’s ties with China – especially our enduring friendship with Shanghai – are long established and deeply valued. Chery Commercial Vehicle’s arrival builds on that history, strengthening our global links while helping us deliver sustainable and connected future.”
Gong Yueqiong, General Manager of Chery Commercial Vehicle, said:
“We are not just bringing products to the UK—we are building a British business.
“Our ‘In UK, For UK, Be UK’ strategy reflects our belief that true globalization comes from deep localization. By recruiting local talent, collaborating with UK institutions, and adapting to local needs, we aim to become a valued contributor to the UK’s automotive industry and economy.
“Our strategy reflects our confidence in the UK’s talent, infrastructure, and commitment to green technology.
“Liverpool offers the perfect environment for Chery Commercial Vehicle’s European ambitions. Our goal is to become a responsible corporate citizen, fully integrated into the local community.”
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:
“Chery Commercial Vehicle’s landmark decision to base its European HQ in our city region is a fantastic vote of confidence in our advanced manufacturing and green innovation sectors.
“This move will create high quality jobs and long-term economic benefits, helping to further strengthen our region’s reputation at the forefront of cleaner, smarter transport.
“The Combined Authority has worked very closely with Liverpool City Council and Chery Commercial Vehicle to help make this investment possible, and we’ll continue to support Chery Commercial Vehicle’s plans for further growth, so it delivers lasting benefits for communities and businesses across our region.”
