Dongfeng Prepares Canadian EV Launch With First Models Targeting 2027 Debut

Chinese automaker Dongfeng Motor is preparing to enter the Canadian market as it works to certify its electric vehicles for local sale.

The company expects to launch its first two EV models as early as next year, joining a growing number of Chinese manufacturers looking to take advantage of Canada’s import quota for China-built electric vehicles.

Dongfeng Begins Certification Process For Canadian Market

Dongfeng showcased several of its electric vehicles in Montreal this week as part of its efforts to introduce the brand to Canadian consumers.

According to Julie Mazorra Fernández, director of North World Industry, Dongfeng’s Canadian distributor, the automaker is currently completing the regulatory certification process required before sales can begin, according to CNEV Post.

“We are working on that, and maybe next year we will be ready to launch the first two models,” Mazorra Fernández said.

Among the vehicles displayed were the Dongfeng Vigo, sold in China as the Nammi 06, and the Nammi Box 01, known domestically as the Nammi 01.

The move follows a significant shift in Canada’s EV import policy. In 2024, Canada imposed a 100% tariff on electric vehicles built in China in addition to the existing 6.1% import duty, effectively closing the market to most Chinese-made EVs.

Earlier this year, however, Canada and China reached an agreement allowing up to 49,000 China-built EVs to enter the country annually under the standard 6.1% most-favored-nation tariff. In exchange, China agreed to remove tariffs on certain Canadian agricultural products.

More Chinese EV Brands Eye Canadian Expansion

Tesla has so far been the largest user of the new import quota, shipping vehicles from its Shanghai Gigafactory to Canada. However, the revised policy is also opening the door for other automakers.

Chinese brands including BYD and Chery have already expressed interest in entering the Canadian market, while Lotus, owned by Geely Holding Group, is expected to become one of the first Chinese-owned brands to begin deliveries under the agreement.

Dongfeng is taking a measured approach by first introducing its products to Canadian buyers before launching retail sales. Looking further ahead, the company is also considering local manufacturing as part of its long-term strategy.

Mazorra Fernández said Dongfeng is interested in building broader commercial relationships with Canadian businesses beyond simply importing vehicles.

The automaker already has experience manufacturing through joint ventures with companies including Stellantis and Nissan in international markets.

Meanwhile, Nissan is reportedly evaluating the possibility of exporting vehicles produced by its Dongfeng Nissan joint venture in China to Canada, reflecting growing interest in bringing lower-cost electric vehicles to Canadian consumers.

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