The Belgrade Car Fair, held from March 20 to 26, showcases a record number of brands and innovations. One of the most anticipated premieres is the electric Fiat Grande Panda, which is produced in Kragujevac, Serbia. The Fiat Grande Panda, offered in both electric and hybrid versions, has generated optimism in the local market. Priced under €20,000 with subsidies for the electric version and under €17,000 for the hybrid, it is expected to make a significant impact in the B-segment.
In addition to Fiat, the fair features an increased presence of Chinese manufacturers, with BYD (Build Your Dreams) being a standout. BYD, which recently unveiled a revolutionary battery that charges in just five minutes, has officially entered the Serbian market. They plan to offer five electric models in Serbia, with the SEAL U DM model expected to be particularly popular, offering up to 1,000 km of range. BYD’s cars come with an impressive six-year warranty and an eight-year battery warranty.
As the global market share of Chinese car manufacturers continues to grow, particularly in Europe and emerging markets, European car brands are facing significant challenges. The European automotive industry is grappling with structural changes, regulatory pressures, and the rise of Asian competition. European manufacturers such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Stellantis are under pressure to transition to electric vehicles (EVs), facing high investment costs and competition from cheaper and more technologically advanced Chinese models. The introduction of tariffs and rising production costs in the U.S. market further complicate the situation for European companies.
In Serbia, the future of the automotive industry is influenced by these global shifts. While the country’s automotive sector, including Kragujevac’s Fiat plant, plays a key role in electric vehicle production, limited demand for EVs in Europe and concerns over environmental risks—such as the Jadar lithium project—pose challenges for further growth. Nonetheless, attracting Chinese auto companies or battery manufacturers could significantly change the landscape of Serbia’s automotive supply chain and industry.
