BUDAPEST: Several Chinese automotive brands showcased new models and expansion plans at the International Automobile and Tuning Show 2026 in Budapest, highlighting their growing interest in the Central and Eastern European market.

The three-day event at Hungexpo attracted large crowds as visitors explored displays ranging from sports cars and classic vehicles to sedans and sport utility vehicles. The exhibition also served as a platform for Chinese carmakers to strengthen their presence in the region, with brands such as Geely, BAIC, MG and OMODA presenting their latest vehicles.

Geely used the event to officially announce its entry into the Hungarian market. At a press conference on the show’s opening day, the company introduced a plug-in hybrid SUV and a battery electric SUV. According to company officials, more than 200 visitors registered for test drives within three hours of the launch.

Yang Cheng, general manager of Geely Hungary, said the move represents an important step in the company’s European expansion strategy. He added that Hungary would serve as a regional hub for branding, after-sales services, spare parts warehousing and vehicle logistics across Eastern Europe.

Yang said the newly introduced models were developed to meet European Union regulations and local market requirements. The vehicles underwent testing at Geely’s research and development centre in Germany, including winter trials, real-world driving evaluations, charging tests and connectivity assessments.

BAIC also made its debut at the Budapest event, displaying one hybrid vehicle and three gasoline-powered models. Daniel Pataki, technical manager of BAIC Hungary, said the company had received strong interest from visitors and plans to establish around 15 dealerships across Hungary to provide nationwide coverage.

Pataki added that the company could expand to neighbouring markets in the future once operations in Hungary are established.

SAIC Motor’s MG brand, which has participated in the event several times, presented a range of vehicles including a pure electric sports car, an electric SUV and several hybrid models. MG has also set up a design centre in Europe to adapt its vehicles to the preferences of European drivers.

Chinese automotive companies have been expanding rapidly in Europe in recent years, particularly in the electric vehicle segment.

Visitors to the exhibition also showed interest in the brands on display. Some attendees said Chinese vehicles offer competitive pricing, extended warranties and modern interior features compared with many traditional brands.