The XPeng G9L SUV attracts visitors at the Paris Motor Show 2026 on Oct 13. WU HUIWO/XINHUA

　　Chinese automakers are stepping up efforts to establish a long-term presence in Europe, moving beyond vehicle exports to local production and sales networks.

　　More than 20 Chinese brands attended the biennial Paris Motor Show, which concluded on Sunday local time, more than double the number at the 2024 edition, according to Reuters.

　　The growing Chinese presence came as several established automakers, including BMW and Porsche, were absent from the event.

　　Francois Roudier, secretary-general of the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers, said the influx of Chinese brands brought renewed energy to a show where some traditional automakers had become less willing to participate.

　　For Chinese manufacturers, a stronger presence at one of Europe's best-known auto shows is only part of their effort to turn growing local interest in their products into sustained sales.

　　At the show, automakers not only showcased new models and intelligent technologies, but also outlined plans for local manufacturing, regulatory certification and broader service networks.

　　The objective is increasingly to build businesses in Europe rather than simply ship vehicles into the region, said analysts.

　　The expansion of local operations reflects both the commercial opportunities in Europe and a more demanding trade environment.

　　Several Chinese companies are exploring ways to produce vehicles to better serve European customers.

　　Leapmotor announced at the show that production of its B10 electric SUV had begun at a plant in Zaragoza, Spain, operated through its partnership with Stellantis.