Chinese EV maker Lotus to begin deliveries in Canada next month, ambassador says

Chinese automaker Geely Holding Group's Lotus brand is expected to begin delivering electric vehicles in Canada next month, according to China's ambassador to Canada, Wang Di.

In an interview, Wang said the first deliveries will begin in Montreal and will be marked by a launch event. He said the move follows an understanding reached between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Wang also said other Chinese automakers, including BYD and Chery, are working through regulatory and legal processes with Canadian authorities as they prepare to enter the market. He said he expects additional Chinese vehicle brands to appear on Canadian roads within the next three to four months.

BYD has previously indicated it could begin selling vehicles in Canada as early as next year. Tesla already imports some China-made vehicles into the Canadian market.

According to the ambassador, several Chinese companies have also expressed interest in establishing local manufacturing operations through joint ventures in Canada. However, he said the companies are currently focused on assessing market demand before making investment decisions.