‘Never say never’: This car maker could bring back Australian manufacturing

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Dreame is considering establishing a production facility in Australia, marking a potential revival of domestic car manufacturing after Holden’s closure nearly a decade ago. The company’s car project lead for Australia and New Zealand, James Moore, confirmed in an exclusive interview with *Drive* that Dreame is evaluating international manufacturing options outside China due to regulatory constraints. While Moore did not confirm Australia as the final location, he noted that the country and New Zealand would be Dreame’s first global expansion into a right-hand-drive market. Dreame recently showcased its electric hypercar concept, the Nebula 01X, in Australia, generating buzz around its entry into the market. However, Moore clarified that the brand plans to introduce a broader lineup of vehicles, including small, medium, and large SUVs, as well as pickup and utility vehicles, targeting high-growth segments. The company aims to launch these models within 12 to 18 months, positioning its arrival in Australia between mid to late 2027. The move aligns with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s openness to reviving domestic car manufacturing, particularly for electric vehicles. Albanese emphasized Australia’s potential to produce EV components, including batteries, during a News Corp event. While full-scale manufacturing remains uncertain, some carmakers like Ford already rely on Australia for vehicle development, such as the Ranger ute and Everest SUV, alongside local firms like PremCar and Walkinshaw. Dreame’s strategy focuses on speed to market and tailoring vehicles to local conditions, with Moore stating that the brand is conducting local testing for Australian and New Zealand roads. The company views itself as distinct from competitors by prioritizing market-specific adaptations rather than competing directly with established brands. This approach could position Dreame as a key player in Australia’s evolving automotive landscape, particularly as demand for electric vehicles grows.