A leading Dutch auto dealer has expressed strong optimism about the future of Chinese new energy vehicles (NEVs) in the European market, highlighting their advanced technology and appeal to consumers.
Kjeld Riegen, head of China’s NEV brand Voyah at Gomes Noord, shared his enthusiasm for the brand during the opening of Voyah’s first store in the Netherlands last week. Voyah is a high-end division of the Chinese Dongfeng Motor Corporation, and its entry into the Dutch market marks a significant step in the expansion of Chinese NEVs in Europe.
“The general picture of Voyah in the Netherlands is looking good,” Riegen said. “We have a nice model lineup, and the quality of Voyah is great.” He added that Gomes Noord plans to open three more Voyah stores in the Netherlands and expand into Belgium in September. “It looks very promising,” he remarked.
Gomes Noord, which also represents Germany’s luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz, has showcased both Voyah and Mercedes-Benz vehicles side by side in its new showroom. This strategic positioning underscores the dealership’s confidence in the Chinese brand’s ability to compete in the high-end market.
Several Dongfeng Motor NEV models made their Dutch debut during the store opening, including the Voyah concept car i-Cozy, Mhero 1, Dongfeng Box, and Dongfeng 007. Riegen emphasized the rigorous testing conducted to ensure the quality and reliability of Voyah vehicles. “We have the utmost trust in the quality of Dongfeng products,” he stated.
Riegen recently visited China, where he was impressed by the rapid advancements in automotive technology. “It’s very impressive. We saw autonomous cars driving in Wuhan and new models from various Chinese brands,” he said. “The electrified traffic was quiet, giving a glimpse of what we can achieve in the future as we electrify our cars more in Holland.”
He highlighted the technological prowess of Chinese brands, particularly in autonomous driving systems, and expressed confidence in their growing popularity in Europe. “We have a total range to offer our customers,” Riegen noted. “I think it’s suitable for most countries.”
As an advocate for the future of NEVs and intelligent mobility, Riegen believes the Netherlands is at the forefront of adapting to new mobility trends. “I believe we have a bright future ahead with smart mobility and autonomous driving,” he said.
Sharing his personal experience with the Voyah models, Riegen said, “I really love the Voyah Free. It drives tremendously, with great power and all options.” He also praised the Mhero as “an impressive model, a dream car with immense power,” and noted the remarkable quality of the smaller Dongfeng Box. “Overall, I am impressed by multiple models of the brand,” he added.
Riegen’s enthusiasm reflects a broader optimism about the integration of Chinese NEVs into the European market, offering consumers high-quality, technologically advanced, and cost-effective options. As European consumers increasingly embrace electric vehicles, brands like Voyah are poised to make a significant impact.
Reference(s):
Dutch auto dealer optimistic about Chinese NEVs in European market
cgtn.com
