Chinese newcomer Forthing has confirmed an expansion of its Australian line-up with at least three new models planned over the next 18 months. Owned by the giant Dongfeng corporation, Forthing has only just launched locally with its first medium SUV, available with both battery-electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains. Now its Australian distributor Ateco Automotive is already looking beyond its debut model.

Speaking at the brand’s Australian media launch, Forthing national manager Shaun Garrard confirmed the growth spurt, saying: “We plan to launch at least three new models over the next 18 months in Australia.”

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First cab off the rank will be a people mover, which Forthing says will be offered with a choice of both pure-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The new model will make its first public Australian appearance at the Everything Electric show in Sydney starting from September 18, although the example on display will be a prototype and its final local seating configuration is yet to be locked in.

According to Garrard, Forthing sees an opportunity to position the new people mover at the more affordable end of the market, particularly as a growing number of Chinese manufacturers introduce increasingly expensive electrified vans.

“Right now, there have been a lot of introductions with new electric MPVs from other Chinese brands, but none of them are focusing on bringing affordable, accessible MPVs to Australia,” Garrard said.

Forthing has also confirmed a larger SUV for Australia, though its launch is planned for 2028, while a third model is also in the works, but the brand wasn’t willing to reveal what it is. “In addition to that, we’re planning another exciting model, but we’re keeping that under wraps,” Garrard said. “And this is just the start.”

The range expansion will give Forthing much greater coverage of the Australian new car market than its initial medium SUV offering, which starts at $36,990 driveaway for the range-extender hybrid and $38,990 driveaway for the fully-electric version.

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The brand isn’t willing to publicly commit to sales targets at this stage, however, instead saying its immediate focus is establishing a sustainable operation.

“Our plan is sustainable growth. Our plan is to be here for the long term,” Garrard said. “We’re not going to make bold promises about sales volumes today, but we can affirm that Forthing is serious about Australia.”

Forthing is part of the Dongfeng Motor Group, one of China’s largest state-owned vehicle manufacturers. Its Australian operation is handled by Ateco Automotive, which also distributes brands including LDV and Renault locally.

Further details of Forthing’s next Australian models, including pricing, specifications and launch timing, will be announced closer to their respective arrivals.