Dongfeng Forthing (FORTHING), the passenger car brand under Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, took the wraps off its all-new TK series at the 2026 Paris Motor Show on October 12. The first models, the TK5 and TK7, made their global debut as the brand outlined a strategy to enter Europe first, then expand to the Middle East, Africa, South America and Southeast Asia, according to Chinese automotive outlet Gasgoo.
TK5 and TK7 target different buyers
The TK5 is a compact urban SUV aimed at younger consumers, offered with both battery-electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. The electric version uses 800V high-voltage fast-charging technology, capable of replenishing from 20% to 80% battery in 18 minutes, and has been specially tuned for European road conditions.
The TK7 focuses on family needs, with a flexible 5- to 8-seat layout, 37 storage compartments, and 6.6kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability. According to official figures, the PHEV version offers an electric-only range of 210 kilometres (130 miles) and a combined range of 1,100 kilometres (684 miles). The company also showed the V9 PHEV Camper Edition, which adds a pop-up roof bed, convertible large bed and side tent for outdoor use.
Local production plans
Beyond the new models, Dongfeng Forthing's European localization efforts drew attention. Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor revealed it has set up nine knock-down (KD) assembly plants across Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Africa, with its first full vehicle assembly base in Europe expected to start production in the first quarter of 2027. The brand's global sales and service network now exceeds 300 outlets, covering more than 120 countries and regions.
Dongfeng Forthing has already entered European markets such as Germany and Italy, and plans to expand into France in 2026. According to official information from the Paris Motor Show, the brand also intends to use Stellantis' plant in Rennes, France, to produce some models.
As Chinese brands accelerate their push into Europe, competition is no longer limited to product specs and pricing. Local production, regulatory compliance, channel development and after-sales service are becoming new hurdles. For Dongfeng Forthing, whether the TK series can crack the European market will depend on subsequent product delivery and localization capabilities.
