The established Chinese off-road brand 212 has officially entered Bulgaria, premiering at the first Asia Motor Show in Sofia, an event presenting leading manufacturers from Asia. Days earlier the brand also appeared at the Paris Motor Show, showing a growing range of modern off-road vehicles, new models and engineering experience intended to support its expansion in Europe.
China Motor Company AD is the exclusive representative of the brand in Bulgaria and the country’s largest importer of Chinese cars. It is also the largest exhibitor at Asia Motor Show, with the biggest stand and the largest number of brands and models. The 212 models will be offered through China Motor’s retail and dealer network, with extended warranties and full service and after-sales support.
In Bulgaria the brand is starting with two models presented as closest to its mix of off-road character, practicality and current technology. The 212 T01 is a 4.7-metre 4x4 that pairs a retro look with equipment for varied terrain. Buyers can choose a 2.0-litre petrol turbo or a 2.0-litre turbodiesel, both with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive.
The 212 P01 is a 4x4 pickup with a double cab and an open cargo bed, aimed at carrying passengers together with equipment and luggage. It uses a 2.3-litre diesel engine and an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, and is pitched at work, travel and trips outside the city.
The marque began in 1965 as the BJ212, a military off-roader ordered for the Chinese army by Mao Zedong. It has been called the Chinese UAZ for its durability on difficult ground. The original BJ212 was built for nearly 60 years with limited visual and technical change. Renamed 212 in 2022, it is described as the first brand made up entirely of digits. Current models use a new platform, updated mechanics and a more luxurious cabin, including a 0.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch multimedia screen, a leather interior and over-the-air software updates. The brand has also competed in harsh international events such as the Dakar Rally and the Rainforest Challenge in Malaysia.
Over the past two years 212 has expanded beyond China, including in Europe. Fetia Jia, head of international business at 212 Off-Road, said Europe is a key market in the brand’s global strategy and that the company will keep focusing on local customers through partners’ market knowledge and distribution networks, which he said should support long-term development in Europe. The owner’s plans also include assembling the brand’s models on the Old Continent as a step toward local production and industrial cooperation.
At the Sofia show, running from 22 to 26 October, the two models will be offered at special prices and on special purchase terms. Further information is on the brand’s Bulgarian site, 212.chinamotor.bg.