Ebro begins producing its models at the Barcelona factory

The historic brand Ebro is making a strong comeback thanks to a strategic alliance with the Chinese giant Chery, marking a new chapter in the Spanish automotive industry. The first fruit of this collaboration will be the Ebro S700, a five-seat SUV that will begin production at the former Nissan plant in the Zona Franca of Barcelona, now transformed into the epicentre of industrial innovation. This model, together with the upcoming Ebro S800 with seven seats, will feature plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and combustion engine powertrains to win over a share of the market from its rivals in the competitive SUV segment by 2025.

The strategic alliance driving Ebro

In April, Ebro became the first Spanish brand to sign an agreement with a Chinese manufacturer to produce vehicles in the country. This collaboration with Chery has led to the creation of two joint ventures. The first, called Ebro SUV, led by EV Motors, will focus on the sale and after-sales service of the models in Spain and Andorra, with plans for international expansion. The second aims at the joint production of Ebro and Chery vehicles at the Zona Franca plant, a key facility for revitalising the local automotive industry.

Ebro S700

The first model to leave the renovated factory will be the S700, a compact SUV with robust lines and a premium design, ideal for families. This vehicle combines elegance and practicality, with a length of 4.51 metres, a width of 1.86 metres and a height of 1.69 metres. Its spacious interior and generous boot make it a versatile option for everyday use and long journeys.

In terms of engineering, the plug-in hybrid versions stand out for their propulsion system, made up of a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor which together produce 350 CV. With a range of more than 90 kilometres in electric mode, these models promise efficiency and performance. The combustion variants, on the other hand, will be equipped with a 1.6 turbo engine producing 150 CV and an automatic gearbox, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic drive. Both configurations come with front-wheel drive.

Ebro S800: coming soon with more space

The second model, the Ebro S800, is distinguished by its seven seats and larger size, with a length of 4.72 metres and a slightly greater height of 1.70 metres. Designed for large families or those seeking more capacity, this SUV retains the same engine options as the S700, along with the high standards of safety and technology.

Local production and a expanding distribution network

Ebro’s production strategy will be developed in two phases. During the first stage, the vehicles will be assembled at the plant, while in 2025 key processes such as welding, painting and full assembly will be added. This approach will not only strengthen the local value chain, but also boost the supplier economy in the region.

These vehicles will be sold through a solid distribution network, with 45 confirmed sales points in Spain, 30 of which will be operational before the end of the year. In addition, Ebro is studying the creation of a Research and Development centre in Barcelona, a step that would consolidate its position as a pioneer in automotive innovation.