Another Chinese automaker is preparing to enter Australia’s competitive EV market. Dongfeng, one of China’s largest carmakers, is positioning its Forthing sub-brand for a local launch before the end of 2025, with its first model set to rival the BYD Atto 3 and Geely EX5.
The brand’s opening act will be the Forthing Friday, a mid-size SUV offered in both electric and range-extender hybrid variants. If plans hold, the model will debut at the Melbourne EV Show in late October, with first customer deliveries possible by Christmas.
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Building momentum: distributor search and launch timeline
Forthing is still finalising its local distribution partner. Options reportedly include established players like Ateco and smaller new entrants. A decision is expected within weeks, as the brand pushes to hold a launch event alongside its Melbourne showing.
Company executive Kim Qin confirmed homologation for Australia is almost complete, clearing the way for production to begin in late October. Unlike Chery and BYD, Forthing will start modestly, with five to ten dealers supported by a wider showroom network.
Pricing has not been locked in, but Qin suggested the SUV will target the $40,000–$45,000 bracket, keeping it just below the Atto 3.
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Powertrain and specs: a closer look at the Forthing Friday
The Forthing Friday will initially launch in electric form, with a plug-in hybrid expected to follow. While final Australian specifications are not yet confirmed, overseas data provides insight into what to expect.
| Specification (overseas models) | Forthing Friday EV |
| Battery options | 86 kWh (Austria) / 64.4 kWh LFP (Fiji) |
| Motor | 150 kW / 340 Nm, single front motor |
| Range | 371 km WLTP (Europe) / 425 km NEDC (Fiji) |
| DC fast charging | Up to 80 kW |
| Dimensions | Mid-size SUV (similar to Mazda CX-5 / Geely EX5) |
| Target price (Australia) | $40,000–$45,000 (before on-road costs, est.) |
| Towing capacity | Not confirmed |
| Safety | No ANCAP testing planned; not developed for 5-star |
The SUV’s range-extender hybrid version will broaden its appeal, though Qin hinted the all-electric model would lead in Australia given stronger alignment with EV demand.
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Looking further ahead: more models in the pipeline
The Friday SUV is just the start of Forthing’s Australian ambitions. A mid-size people mover, the U-Tour, is next in line and will be adapted to offer both plug-in hybrid and battery-electric drivetrains.
By 2030, Forthing showrooms in Australia could feature up to four models, including a possible dual-cab ute. While still under development, the ute project reflects Dongfeng’s intent to localise for markets where light commercial vehicles are in high demand.
Key Points
- Brand debut – Forthing, a sub-brand of Dongfeng, is targeting an Australian launch by late 2025.
- First model – The Forthing Friday mid-size SUV will be offered in electric and hybrid versions.
- Pricing – Expected between $40,000 and $45,000, competing with BYD Atto 3 and Leapmotor C10.
- Distribution – Final partner yet to be announced, with Ateco among the names discussed.
- Future lineup – A people mover and a possible ute are planned by 2030, expanding the local offering.
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