Multiple Chinese Car Brands Disappear from Israeli Market Amid Importer Struggles

Recently, Maor Elmagor, head of electric vehicle operations at Kaduri Group, a veteran Chinese car importer in Israel, announced his departure to pursue new professional challenges. Kaduri Group, which originally held the Chery franchise over a decade ago, launched SKYWELL cars in Israel five years ago and also acquired the BAIC franchise. However, another importer, Dallhum Group, also claimed BAIC rights, signaling potential relinquishment by Kaduri. This reflects a broader trend of numerous Chinese car brands vanishing from the Israeli market in recent years.

The Israeli automotive sector has seen an unprecedented wave of brand collapses, especially among Chinese manufacturers. While non-Chinese brands have exited at a slower pace historically, many Chinese brands that entered around three years ago have quietly disappeared due to importer bankruptcies, unsuitable products, business disputes, fragmented branding, and regulatory challenges. Owners of these vehicles often face lack of service, spare parts, and software updates, rendering their cars effectively worthless.

Notable Chinese brands that have exited include AIWAYS, which collapsed in China due to low profitability; Arcfox, which has cycled through multiple importers without actual sales; NETA, whose marketing license was held by Belilios Group but ceased operations after the manufacturer’s 2025 collapse; WM Motor, which promised large imports but sold only a few hundred units before folding; and WEY, which initially succeeded with plug-in hybrids but stopped marketing due to inventory shortages.

Other brands like JAC and YUDO suffered from importer bankruptcies, leaving their vehicles unsupported. Some brands maintain import licenses and agencies but report zero sales, such as BAIC, WEY, SKYWELL, EVEASY, and FORTHING, highlighting a drying market. The Israeli market now hosts 74 brands, yet 11 have recorded no sales this year, underscoring the instability and challenges Chinese automakers face in Israel.

Industry experts warn that the market’s maturation regarding Chinese vehicles will take several more years. Meanwhile, consumers risk purchasing vehicles without reliable support or resale value, complicating the used car market. The ongoing import struggles and brand disappearances reveal the difficulties of sustaining Chinese automotive ventures in Israel’s competitive and regulated environment.