MAXUS Accelerates Localized Expansion in Italy

SAIC MAXUS said it has launched a new business model in Italy at the beginning of 2026, outlining a three-year product and business plan for the market. As part of the move, SAIC Motor Italy (SMIT) will establish a dedicated MAXUS business unit, with a local team responsible for day-to-day operations. The unit will work with SMIT on brand management, market analysis and dealer network development to expand MAXUS’s commercial vehicle business in Italy.

The move marks the implementation of MAXUS’s so-called “Glocal” strategy in Italy, combining global brand management with localized operations. The company views Italy as a key strategic market in Europe and an important step in SAIC Motor’s broader international expansion, as Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturers increasingly shift from export-led sales to long-term local operations.

Yang Huaijing, chairman of SAIC’s commercial vehicle management committee and general manager of SAIC MAXUS, said Italy is not only an export destination but also a strategic base and reference market for the brand in Europe. MAXUS has built a presence in several European countries following years of investment in the region.

MAXUS has been active in the Italian market since 2021, introducing electric light commercial vehicles such as the eDELIVER 3 and eDELIVER 9. It is currently the only Chinese brand operating in both the medium and large electric light commercial vehicle segments in Italy, as demand for electrification continues to grow.

The company said it will continue to develop products based on EU safety standards while adapting them to local operating conditions. Its focus includes improving safety performance, application suitability and total cost of ownership (TCO) for Italian customers through system-level solutions and technical cooperation.

MAXUS said its customization capabilities have already been demonstrated in Europe, citing vehicles developed for DHL’s European operations that were adapted to local road and usage conditions. Following the launch of the new business model, the company plans to extend similar customized solutions to Italian business customers.

Looking ahead, MAXUS plans to introduce eight new or updated models in Italy over the coming years. These include the Deliver 7 (V70) L1 automatic version, the Deliver 9 (V90) automatic version, the all-electric pickup eTerron 9, the T60 Pro pickup, a new small van and a new large electric van. The lineup will cover major light commercial vehicle segments and offer internal combustion, hybrid and battery-electric powertrains.

At a meeting with dealer investors, Zhao Aimin, head of SAIC Commercial Vehicle International, said the group would continue to strengthen overseas operations. In Italy, MAXUS plans to work closely with local partners, supported by SMIT’s operational experience and market knowledge.

To support long-term growth, the company aims to establish 40 authorized dealerships across Italy, building a nationwide sales and service network to improve customer access and after-sales support.

MAXUS currently operates in more than 100 countries and regions worldwide and has been developing the European market for over a decade. Since entering the EU market with the V80 in 2014 and launching the EV80 in 2017, the company has expanded its portfolio from conventional fuel vehicles to new energy models, covering vans, pickups, MPVs, SUVs and recreational vehicles.

The company said Italy will serve as a new starting point for deeper expansion in Europe, as MAXUS continues to pursue localized operations and technology cooperation across the region.

Views:0