While the global automotive industry is undergoing radical change, Hungarian importer Genius Automotive Kft. is posting record-breaking results. In just 15 months, the Chery brands Omoda and Jaecoo have captured a 1.7 percent share of Hungary’s new car market. With a combination of bold design and advanced hybrid technologies, the Chinese “twin brands” are increasingly challenging established competitors.
The brands officially launched sales in Hungary in October 2024. In their first full year on the market, they registered a combined total of 2,204 new vehicles. Their impact has been especially strong in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) segment, where 486 units sold propelled Omoda and Jaecoo straight into the top five best-selling brands.
Mária Goldberger, Managing Director of Genius Automotive Europe, sees this as clear confirmation of the strategy. “The debut shows that Hungarian customers are ready for progressive, innovation-driven brands with a strong character,” she explained.
To support rapid growth, the dealer and service network has been significantly expanded.
From an initial eight locations at the start of 2025, the network grew to 20 sites by year-end, ensuring nationwide coverage.
All indications suggest continued growth in 2026. The manufacturer plans to launch two new Omoda models and three new Jaecoo models, all featuring the latest Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology, widely seen as a key driver of future expansion.
The success in Hungary is part of a global wave of expansion by China’s Chery Group. While many manufacturers are struggling with stagnating sales, Omoda&Jaecoo have entered 64 markets worldwide in less than three years. With cumulative sales of over 800,000 vehicles, they are among the fastest-growing automotive brands in the world. Of these, over 200,000 units were sold in the demanding European market.
Genius Automotive Europe, a joint venture between experienced Hungarian car dealers Hovány Kft. and Petrányi Autó Kft., is using Hungary as a springboard for the entire region.
Sales began in Romania at the end of October 2025, followed by the market launch in Bulgaria in December.
Backed by share capital of 1 billion forints (2.6 million euros) and holding the exclusive import license from the Chery Group, the company is positioning itself as one of the strongest players in the Eastern an Central European automotive trade.
Via MTI, Featured image: Wikimedia Commons/public domain
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