Dongfeng Nammi (Chinese: 东风纳米) is the electric vehicle division of the Chinese state-owned automaker Dongfeng Motor Corporation, specializing in budget electric cars. Previously known as Dongchuang Zilian (Wuhan) New Energy Technology (东创紫联), the company transitioned into an independent brand in 2023 with its own production facilities.
| Website | www.dna-nev.com.cn |
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The company was initially responsible for the domestic sales of electric vehicles manufactured by eGT New Energy Automotive, a joint venture between Dongfeng and the Renault-Nissan Alliance. However, after becoming an independent brand, Dongfeng Nammi now develops its own vehicles while continuing to share production lines and supply chains with eGT in Shiyan, Hubei.
History
Establishment and Initial Role (2020–2023)
Dongchuang Zilian (Wuhan) New Energy Technology was established on October 28, 2020, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Dongfeng Motor Group. Its primary role was to manage the domestic sales of electric passenger vehicles produced by eGT New Energy Automotive Co., Ltd. These vehicles were rebadged versions of models developed within the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
Brand Independence and Production Expansion (2023–Present)
In February 2023, Dongchuang Zilian was renamed Dongfeng Motor Nammi Technology Co., Ltd., marking its transformation from a sales subsidiary to an independent brand under Dongfeng Motor Group.
Shortly after, Dongfeng Nammi announced an investment of ¥5.31 billion to establish a new production base in Xiangyang, Hubei Province. In addition to this facility, Dongfeng Nammi continues to operate its production line in Shiyan, Hubei, alongside eGT New Energy Automotive.
Dongfeng also introduced the S3 platform, a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) architecture for small battery electric cars. This platform was specially developed by Dongfeng Motor to support Dongfeng Nammi’s expansion into the compact EV segment.
Launch of the Nammi Brand and First Model
In August 2023, Dongfeng Motor officially launched Dongfeng Nammi as a brand focused exclusively on small battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Alongside this announcement, the Nammi 01 was introduced as the first vehicle developed in-house by the company. Unlike previous models such as the Nano EX1 and Nano Box, which were originally developed by eGT New Energy Automotive, the Nammi 01 represents the company’s shift towards independent design and manufacturing.
Products
See also: [List of Dongfeng vehicles]
Current Models
- Dongfeng Nano EX1 (2020–present) – City car, also rebadged as Aeolus EX1, Forthing T1, Fengon E1, Dacia Spring, Renault City K-ZE, and Nissan Venucia E30.
- Dongfeng Nano Box (2022–present) – City car, developed in collaboration with eGT New Energy Automotive.
- Dongfeng Nammi 01 (2024–present) – Subcompact hatchback, the first independently developed model by Dongfeng Nammi.
Image Gallery
- Dongfeng Nano Box
![Dongfeng Nano Box] - Dongfeng EX1
![Dongfeng EX1] - Dongfeng Nammi 01
![Dongfeng Nammi 01]
Future Developments
Dongfeng Nammi has announced plans to expand its model lineup further, with additional small EVs expected to be introduced under the S3 platform. The company aims to strengthen its position as a leader in the affordable electric vehicle market in China, competing with brands like Wuling, Leapmotor, and BYD Dolphin.
Conclusion
Dongfeng Nammi represents Dongfeng Motor Corporation’s strategic push into the budget electric vehicle sector. With dedicated production facilities, its own vehicle platform, and an expanding model lineup, Dongfeng Nammi is set to become a key player in China’s growing small EV market. The company continues to evolve from its origins as a sales division for eGT vehicles into a fully independent brand with its own R&D, design, and manufacturing capabilities.
