Chinese Automotive Giant BAIC Prepares for Official Market Entry in Israel
Chinese automotive giant BAIC is officially launching in Israel with the upcoming introduction of the B30 hybrid SUV, aiming to challenge established market competitors with aggressive pricing and robust capabilities.
Chinese automotive giant BAIC is preparing for its official market entry in Israel, led by importer Dahlam Motors. While the brand previously introduced the basic EU5 electric sedan and two gasoline crossovers, the centerpiece of the upcoming launch in mid-November will be the B30 hybrid SUV, which aims to challenge established models in the local market.
BAIC ranks as the eighth-largest automotive group in China and has a 68-year history, producing over 40 million vehicles. The company is particularly renowned for its off-road heritage, including the BJ series established in the 1960s, alongside long-standing joint ventures with international automakers like Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai for the Chinese market.
Measuring 4.73 meters in length, 1.91 meters in width, and 1.79 meters in height, the B30 features a robust, boxy design inspired by classic off-road vehicles. Despite its rugged appearance, it utilizes a unibody platform designed for comfortable daily family use while offering light off-road capabilities, a generous ground clearance of 21.5 centimeters, and all-wheel drive.
The B30 is powered by a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-liter turbo-gasoline engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 409 horsepower. It achieves acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds. Inside, the vehicle offers a spacious cabin with a 2.82-meter wheelbase, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 14.6-inch central infotainment screen.
Dahlam Motors plans to position the B30 aggressively against competitors like the Jaecoo 7, with official pricing to be revealed in the coming weeks. The importer expects the model to serve as its primary growth driver, targeting sales of around 2,000 units annually. Furthermore, the brand plans to introduce more robust off-road models such as the B40 and B60 in the future, pending full European homologation.
