All the Chinese car brands you’ve never heard of

The smallest of the ‘big four’ Chinese state-owned manufacturers (behind SAIC, FAW and BAIC), Changan was founded in 1862 as a military supply company. Today Changan produces mainstream Chinese cars in predominantly petrol formats. They are mass-appeal affordable models, and their entry-level EV, the Benni EC 260 offers a 30kW motor and 210km range for around $10k.

One of China’s oldest car brands, Hongqi (meaning Red Flag) has been in business since 1959. They have transitioned from building licenced versions (and old versions) of Western cars like the Audi 100 to high-end petrol and electric sedans, MPVs and SUVs. The designs are often quite bold, as illustrated by the retro-modern L5 limousine.

Another collaboration, this time between Nio and GAC Group, who produce the mass-market Trumpchi brand, Hycan offers electric models with some really unique designs. A large, flat-faced MPV called the V09 and a muscular sedan named A06 are standouts.

Yet another brand building electric-only models for the Chinese market. There are a pair of large SUVs, a mid-size sedan and a compact city car, but unlike most others, there’s also a sports coupe. The Leapmotor S01 is a 125kW/250Nm front-drive electric coupe, similar in size to a Toyota GR86, that’s priced just under A$30k.