Chinese electric vehicles have been gaining popularity among Greeks since last year when some of China's car brands entered the country's market.
The trend aligns with the Greek government's recent efforts to promote green transportation in order to meet carbon emission targets and support sustainable development. "Every day people come to the car showroom in the store. More and more new customers come to see cars and test drive them. Customers have greater recognition and interest in the brand," said a car sales consultant at a dealership in the Greek capital, Athens.
In Greece, the development of EVs is still in its infancy, with a market share of only about five percent.
The dense population, lack of infrastructure such as charging stations, and low replacement rates have all become factors restricting the development of EVs.
But in recent years, high gas prices have forced many Greeks to turn their attention to EVs.
"I did a lot of market research and visited a lot of stores. Chinese cars have excellent mechanical systems, along a great design and reasonable prices. It will also be an advantage if you sell second-hand cars in the future," said an Athens resident.
Data shows that in the first eight months of this year, the cumulative number of registered and licensed vehicles from various Chinese brands in Greece has exceeded 2,500.
Additionally, 250 Chinese electric buses purchased by Greece were put into service this year in Athens and Thessaloniki, the country's second-largest city, significantly improving public transportation and enhancing the travel experience for residents.
Dimitris Kavvouris, Deputy CEO and Chief Strategy Officer of Syngelidis Automotive Companies, a dealership representing the Chinese EV brand MG, highlighted the brand's success in Greece and Europe, attributing it to its advanced technology and good value, rather than just affordability.
"It is not a matter how cheap they are because they give a great level of technology. Therefore this is what it makes them very successful in the Greek market, in the European market as a whole. So we're very happy that we commercialize the Chinese MG," Kavvouris said.
Chinese EVs gain popularity in Greece
Chinese EVs gain popularity in Greece
