Vietnam's automotive market is expected to welcome two additional Chinese brands, Li Auto and Forthing, with both scheduled to begin operations between late 2026 and early 2027.

Both brands have appointed Neera Motors as their official importer and distributor. The company is currently completing import procedures, vehicle certification and dealership development.

According to Hoang Chi Trung, Director of Neera Motors, Li Auto is expected to begin operations in Vietnam in late 2026 or early 2027, while Forthing is expected to follow shortly afterwards. Li Auto's first two showrooms will be located in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City before the dealer network expands to other provinces.

Li Auto to launch i6, L6, L8 and L9

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Beijing, Li Auto manufactures battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). Its current product portfolio comprises six models, evenly divided between the two powertrain technologies.

According to the distributor, the first models to arrive in Vietnam will include the all-electric i6 SUV coupe, together with the L6, L8 and L9 extended-range electric SUVs. These models compete in the mid-size and full-size SUV segments.

In China, Li Auto is positioned in the premium vehicle segment, above mainstream manufacturers such as BYD, Aion and Geely. In Vietnam, it is expected to compete alongside premium brands, including Zeekr, which is also preparing to enter the market.

Forthing returns with V9 hybrid MPV

Neera Motors will also distribute Forthing, a brand under the Dongfeng Group established in 2001.

Forthing previously entered the Vietnamese market in 2021 with the T5 Evo, which was imported in limited numbers. The model recorded limited sales despite being priced at approximately VND 769 million (US$ 29,240).

For its return, Forthing is expected to introduce the V9, a full-size hybrid MPV positioned to compete with models such as the Kia Carnival and GAC GS8.

According to Neera Motors, Forthing will begin introducing its new design language across its product range from late 2026, with Vietnam expected to be among the first overseas markets to receive the next-generation models.

Chinese brands continue expanding in Vietnam

The arrival of Li Auto and Forthing will further increase the number of Chinese automotive brands operating in Vietnam. Other manufacturers, including Zeekr and DFSK, are also expected to enter the market in the near future.

Over the past three years, several Chinese manufacturers have entered Vietnam with product strategies centred on electric and electrified vehicles, while offering advanced technology and equipment across their model ranges.