Magna’s Graz plant could be on the cusp of a major rebound: according to media reports citing industry circles, the contract manufacturer is in advanced talks with Chinese groups SAIC (brand MG) and Changan that — if signed — would bring large vehicle volumes to Austria and potentially create about 1,000 new jobs in the Graz region. That prospect matters to German and Austrian suppliers, logistics firms and dealers who would feed parts and services into any ramp-up.
What's reported and what Magna says
Reporters say the MG (SAIC) deal is furthest along and could be signed “shortly”, with a possible production start around May 2027; separate talks with Changan are described as following later in 2027. Published figures in the reports put MG volumes at “well over 50,000” units and suggest Changan could account for “more than 150,000” cars a year across several models — numbers the media connect to Magna’s capacity planning and reserved logistics space.
Magna itself declined to confirm deals. On inquiries the company told reporters: “We do not participate in speculation to possible or future projects.” That caution means the reporting must be treated as contingent until contracts are announced.
Immediate implications for Graz and neighbouring sites
If the reports are borne out, the Graz site — already a European finishing and contract-manufacturing hub for Mercedes and Chinese brands such as Xpeng and GAC — would see a material increase in throughput. Media coverage also notes that Magna’s lightly utilised 2019 factory in Hoče, Slovenia, could be ramped for fuller vehicle assembly by late 2028 or early 2029 as part of a wider footprint adjustment. Both moves would affect regional supplier networks and hiring.
