Romania has a rich automotive history and industry, marked by the presence of both domestic brands and international manufacturers. The country is known for its skilled workforce, competitive production costs, and strategic geographical location within Europe. This article explores the major car brands and popular production cities in Romania.
Major Car Brands in Romania
1. Dacia
Dacia is undoubtedly the most prominent car brand in Romania, founded in 1966. It became a subsidiary of the Renault Group in 1999, which helped modernize its production and expand its market reach. Dacia is known for its affordable and reliable vehicles, with models like the Duster, Logan, and Sandero gaining immense popularity both locally and internationally.
2. Oltcit
Oltcit was a Romanian car manufacturer that operated from the late 1970s until the early 1990s. It was a joint venture with Citroen and produced cars at the Craiova plant. The Oltcit models were based on the Citroen Axel and were known for their unique designs and features.
3. ARO
ARO was a Romanian manufacturer of off-road vehicles, established in 1957. The brand was known for its rugged SUVs, primarily produced in the town of Câmpulung Muscel. ARO vehicles were popular in both military and civilian markets, and they gained a reputation for their durability and off-road capability.
4. Ford Romania
Ford established a production facility in Craiova in 2008, marking a significant investment in Romania's automotive industry. The Craiova plant produces several models, including the Ford EcoSport and the Ford Puma. The presence of Ford has also contributed to the growth of the local supply chain and automotive ecosystem.
Popular Production Cities in Romania
1. Craiova
Craiova is a key city in Romania's automotive landscape, home to the Ford plant and previously the Oltcit and ARO factories. The city's strategic location and skilled labor force have made it an attractive site for automotive manufacturing, contributing significantly to the local economy.
2. Mioveni
Mioveni is the birthplace of Dacia and remains a hub for the production of Dacia vehicles. The Dacia factory in Mioveni is one of the largest and most modern automotive plants in Romania, employing thousands of workers and producing a significant volume of cars each year.
3. Câmpulung Muscel
Câmpulung Muscel is known for its historical significance in the Romanian automotive industry, particularly as the original home of ARO. Although ARO ceased production, the city retains its automotive heritage and is still involved in various automotive-related activities.
4. Târgu Jiu
Târgu Jiu has emerged as a growing automotive production city, with several suppliers and smaller manufacturers operating in the area. The city's strategic location allows easy access to major transport routes, making it an ideal spot for automotive parts manufacturing and distribution.
Conclusion
Romania's automotive industry has evolved significantly over the decades, with a mix of historical brands and modern production facilities. The country's commitment to innovation and quality has enabled it to become an important player in the European automotive market. As the industry continues to grow, Romania is poised to maintain its status as a key automotive hub in the region.