Dongfeng Automobiles: Models, Features, and Price Breakdown

Dongfeng’s presence in the automotive world is becoming more prominent. Although it has been recognized for a few years, the Chinese company is now making strides in Europe, offering a wide variety of cars and technologies. Some models are already available for purchase, while others are set to launch soon.

In addition to its expansion into the European market, Dongfeng is one of the Chinese firms exploring the possibility of producing vehicles in Europe, with Italy as a potential location. The company plans to invest over $14 billion in research and development within the next three years, aiming to introduce 18 new cars and 22 commercial vehicles to the market.

A look into the company’s origins reveals that Dongfeng Motor Corporation, founded in 1969 as the Second Automobile Works (Erqi), is a state-owned enterprise based in Wuhan, China.

It has grown into one of China’s largest automakers, ranking among the top four alongside Chang’an Motors, FAW Group, and SAIC Motor. In 2023, Dongfeng sold 2.42 million vehicles globally, generating more than €52 billion in revenue.

Several brands operate under Dongfeng’s umbrella. The main brand is Dongfeng Passenger Vehicles, with others like Voyah, which specializes in premium new energy vehicles (NEV), and Mhero, a luxury off-road NEV brand. The company’s motto, ‘Drive your dreams,’ reflects its corporate mission.

Another outstanding brand in Dongfeng’s portfolio is Forthing, developed by its subsidiary, Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor. Additionally, DFSK represents a joint venture between Dongfeng and Chongqing Sokon Industrial Group, focusing on vehicle production.

Dongfeng’s European expansion may soon include manufacturing operations in Italy. The company has already formed partnerships with over 10 international vehicle and component manufacturers, including Honda, Nissan, Peugeot, and Citroën, and exports its vehicles to more than 100 countries.

The brand offers a diverse array of vehicles, ranging from sedans and SUVs to commercial trucks. It also provides a variety of NEV powertrains, including hybrid-electric (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and bi-fuel methane (CNG).

Dongfeng has made advancements in solid-state battery technology, achieving a power density of 400 Wh/kg, with a goal of reaching 600 Wh/kg soon. Their solid-state batteries have been put through extensive testing, covering over 1.6 million kilometers.

Dongfeng has also established itself as a leader in fuel cell vehicle (FCV) research and development, becoming the first Chinese automaker to explore this technology.

Several Dongfeng vehicles are already available for purchase in Europe, including models like the Forthing Friday, U-Tour, Voyah Dream, and Voyah Free. Two other models, the Dongfeng Box and Voyah Courage, were recently showcased at the Turin Motor Show in Italy and are set to hit the market later this year, with the Box expected to be priced around €23,000.

The Dongfeng Box is a compact electric hatchback built on the Quantum Architecture S3 platform. It boasts a driving range of up to 267 miles and features fast-charging capabilities, making it an attractive option in the growing EV market.

Another addition to Dongfeng’s lineup is the 007, a sleek sedan with a drag coefficient of 0.209 Cd. This aerodynamic model recently received the Red Dot Product Design Award 2024, and more details are expected soon.

At the upcoming Paris Motor Show, Dongfeng is set to uncover the 008, its second car under the Aeolus brand, designed with a focus on NEVs. The Dongfeng Huge, a hybrid SUV measuring 4.72 meters in length, is also expected to make its way to the European market.

The Dongfeng Mage, a compact SUV powered by a 150 kW 1.5T Mach engine, offers a smooth ride with its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and four-wheel independent suspension. Like other models, it is likely to be introduced to Europe in the near future.

The sporty Dongfeng Shine features a 1.5T turbocharged engine with direct injection, delivering up to 197 PS and a top speed of 124 mph. Another offering is the Mhero 1, a luxury off-road electric vehicle launched in 2022, which rivals models like the electric Hummer with its impressive power output and performance.

Voyah Courage, a midsize electric SUV, comes packed with advanced technology and is expected to hit the market by the end of 2024. The Voyah Free, another electric SUV with ample cargo space, is already available for order in Italy.

Voyah Dream, a luxury electric MPV, can seat up to seven passengers and offers a dual-motor powertrain with a range of up to 466 miles. Meanwhile, the Voyah Passion, an electric and plug-in hybrid sedan, boasts impressive performance with up to 510 PS and a range of up to 453 miles.

Dongfeng’s commitment to innovation is evident through its four research and development centers, three of which are located in China and one in Sweden.

The company holds over 6,000 automotive patents and is investing in new software research centers in cities like Beijing and Guangzhou. It is also planning to invest more than $50 million into a world-class design center, with additional locations in Europe and Japan.