Dongfeng, one of China’s automotive giants, is making waves in Europe with the launch of its budget-friendly electric vehicle, the Nammi Box. This hatchback is making its debut in Switzerland, with a starting price of CHF 21,990 (approximately $25,000).
Positioned as a rival to the Citroen ë-C3, one of Europe’s most affordable EVs, the Nammi Box is set to challenge the market with its competitive pricing and solid features.
A Strategic Move: Production in Italy
To keep costs low and avoid the hefty EU import taxes on Chinese-made EVs, which can reach up to 38.1% on top of the existing 10% import tariff, Dongfeng is exploring the possibility of building a factory in Italy.
According to reports, the Chinese state-owned automaker is in advanced talks with the Italian government regarding the establishment of this new production facility. If successful, this move could significantly bolster Dongfeng’s presence in the European market.
A Compact Contender
Based on Dongfeng’s S3 platform, the Nammi Box shares similar dimensions with the Citroen ë-C3, measuring 4.02 meters in length. The vehicle is equipped with a 42.3kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of 193 miles, and is powered by a 94bhp single motor.
While a smaller 31.5kWh battery version is available in China, it is not expected to be offered in the European market.
For comparison, the Citroen ë-C3 provides a range of 199 miles with its 44kWh battery and features a slightly more powerful 111bhp motor.
Despite the Nammi Box’s slightly lower power and range, its competitive price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious EV buyers in Europe.
Interior and Features
The Nammi Box doesn’t skimp on interior quality despite its budget-friendly pricing. The cabin is outfitted in diamond-stitched white leather, providing a touch of luxury. A 12-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the dashboard, complemented by a 5-inch digital instrument panel.
One of the unique features of the Nammi Box is its front seats, which can recline flat to serve as makeshift beds—a quirky addition that could appeal to those who value flexibility in their vehicle’s interior design.
Potential Expansion Across Europe
While the Nammi Box is currently available only in Switzerland, Dongfeng’s strategic moves suggest that a broader European rollout could be on the horizon.
With ongoing discussions to establish production in Italy, it’s likely that the Nammi Box will soon follow in the footsteps of other Chinese automotive giants like BYD, Chery, and Geely, expanding their reach across Europe.
Conclusion
Dongfeng’s Nammi Box represents a bold entry into the European electric vehicle market, offering a compelling mix of affordability and features. With its competitive pricing at around $25,010 USD and the potential for local production in Italy, the Nammi Box could become a significant player in the budget EV segment.
As Dongfeng continues to explore opportunities in Europe, the Nammi Box’s success could pave the way for more Chinese-made EVs to enter the market, challenging established brands and offering consumers more choices in the ever-growing electric vehicle landscape.
