GWM Australia has appointed Andrew Gao as its new managing director, effective February 1, 2026. Gao, a 15-year veteran of the automaker, takes over from Charles Zhao, who is transitioning to lead GWM’s European operations after five years of significant growth in the Australian market.
Rapid Growth and Market Position
Under Zhao’s leadership, GWM – encompassing brands like Haval, GWM Utes, Tank, and Ora – achieved record sales in 2025, finishing seventh overall with 52,809 units sold, a 23.4% increase. This positioned GWM as the leading Chinese automaker in Australia, a trend mirroring China’s rise to become the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer. The GWM Haval Jolion was the best-selling model, followed by the Haval H6, Cannon, and Tank 300.
The company has demonstrated consistent growth in recent years: 17.5% in 2024 (42,782 sales) and a substantial 45.3% increase in 2023 (36,397 sales). In 2022, sales stood at 25,042, showing a dramatic expansion of GWM’s market presence.
Strategic Expansion and Local Focus
Gao’s appointment comes as GWM prepares to introduce its premium brand, Wey, to compete directly with brands like BYD’s Denza and IM Presented by MG Motor. The company is also planning to launch the Haval Jolion Max and introduce a new 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engine for the Cannon Alpha ute and Tank 500.
A key focus will be localized tuning : GWM has hired Rob Trubiani, a former Holden suspension expert, to adapt vehicles for Australia’s often rough road conditions. Gao emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering locally optimized products, investing in the dealer network, and enhancing aftersales support through expanded parts warehousing and training.
Global Ambitions and European Expansion
Zhao’s move to Europe aligns with GWM’s broader international strategy, including plans to build up to 300,000 vehicles annually in either Spain or Hungary. This push to establish local manufacturing is shared by other Chinese automakers – BYD, Geely, and Chery – seeking to bypass European import tariffs. Notably, Chery has already acquired a former Nissan plant in Barcelona, and is exploring partnerships with Jaguar Land Rover for UK production.
Industry Leadership Shifts
The leadership change at GWM Australia is part of a broader trend of executive turnover across the automotive industry in the region. Nissan, Mitsubishi, Ford, and Volkswagen have also recently announced new leadership appointments, signaling a period of transition for major players in the Australian market.
This turnover reflects both strategic realignments within global companies and the increasing competitiveness of the Australian automotive landscape, particularly with the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers.
GWM’s success in Australia highlights a significant shift in the industry, as Chinese automakers gain market share and challenge established brands. The company’s commitment to local adaptation and expansion suggests a long-term strategy for sustained growth.
