SLM Group has added new Chinese electric brand GWM Ora as a new franchise in Norwich.

The Chinese manufacturer has been working on its UK expansion plans and the addition of SLM as a franchisee takes its total number of sites to 29 since launching late last year.

The business expects to add a further 20 dealerships to its network before the end of 2023.

SLM is a 12 site group with sites across East Sussex, Kent and East Anglia, representing Nissan, Suzuki, Toyota, Vauxhall, Fiat, Lexus and now GWM Ora.

The dealer group said that it will start sales of the Funky Cat First Edition at the Norwich location and has plans to open additional locations with the Chinese brand as the brand continues to grow.

Additional model variants of the Funky Cat are set to launch later this year, followed by a premium saloon model (pictured) that launches in Q1 2024.

Jason Barlow, SLM group director, said: “We understand the importance of offering exciting new sustainable brands to our customers across East Anglia and we’re certain that GWM Ora’s highly specified Funky Cat, with its unique personality and premium fit and finish, is a winning formula.

"We look forward to working with GWM ORA as it grows its operations in the UK.”

Toby Marshall, GWM Ora UK, said the brand has "very ambitious plans in the UK" and one of its key focus areas this year is ensuring GWM Ora has the right infrastructure in place to create a solid foundation for future brand expansion.

He added: "With new models on the horizon and a growing product portfolio, retailers like SLM will play a vital role in ensuring we can deliver the right level of customer service as the GWM Ora brand grows in the UK.”