Family at heart: How Forthing aims for success in Europe

Following its debut at the Paris Motor Show two years ago and a stopover at the Munich IAA, the Chinese manufacturer is making its third major trade fair appearance and showcasing three models that set to hit the road in Europe. Forthing aims to stand out from the competition with a particular focus on family-friendliness. Here's all the key details on the models presented.

Foto: Gesine Schurig

TK5: which powertrain would you like?

In all likelihood, the most interesting Forthing model for Europe is the TK5; a mid-sized SUV that boasts solid technical specifications. The battery in the all-electric version has a capacity of 75 kWh, while the plug-in hybrid offers 39 kWh. Forthing does not specify charging times for the latter, though it is said to be fast-charging capable. The all-electric version can be charged from 20 to 80 per cent in under 18 minutes, thanks to its 800-volt architecture. This theoretically corresponds to an average charging power of 150 kW. However, Forthing states a DC charging power of only 160 kW, which seems relatively low for an 800-volt model. It is likely that the manufacturer is following the example of other brands by specifying an average power rather than peak performance.

On the exhibition stand, the vehicle presents itself with a decent quality appearance, featuring electrically adjustable seats even in the second row. The front seats add heating, ventilation, and integrated massage functions.

TK7: A size larger

Meanwhile, the TK7’s bigger brother is only available as a plug-in hybrid. With approximately 29 centimetres more in length, it offers up to three additional seats compared to the TK5. In the variant displayed at the exhibition stand, it features seven seats arranged in an unconventional 2-2-3 configuration: two individual seats at the very front and in the middle row, followed by a three-seater bench in the rear. This layout provides ample space for four passengers, while the last row can comfortably accommodate three children. A particular advantage of this arrangement is that access to the last row is possible without extensive folding or climbing, as passengers can simply pass through the gap between the two middle individual seats to reach the rear.

V9: China discovers camping

The V9 is an imposing presence. This plug-in hybrid offers buyers a choice between four or seven seats, or between passengers and luggage. While the seven-seater is the more practical compromise for accommodating many passengers, the four-seater is designed more consistently as a campervan. It includes a sink, shower curtain, refrigerator, and extra storage compartments in the rear side windows. Both versions share not only a roof tent and an awning but also a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) option with 6 kW. A 220-volt power outlet strip inside the four-seater allows for a power draw of 2.2 kW. Additionally, both variants enable a ‘double-decker’ bed layout by combining the roof tent with flat-folding seats.

Foto: Gesine Schurig

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Family-friendliness as a USP

Dongfeng Forthing has been active in the European market since 2022 and had sold more than 10,000 vehicles in Europe by 2025. The brand has long been present in Germany and Italy, with France, Norway, and Denmark to follow. With its focus on family vehicles, Forthing aims to fill a gap that many other brands are increasingly neglecting. The European market launch for the TK5 and TK7 is expected in the coming months, though Forthing has not yet announced pricing.