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Chinese brands including BYD, Chery and SAIC's MG have already established a foothold in Europe, while newer entrants are racing to build dealer networks, parts operations and brand recognition.

For some, the stakes are existential.

"If they drop exports in Europe, they die," said Francois Roudier, secretary general of the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA).

The pressure stems from China itself, where the world's largest car market has become increasingly crowded.

More than 100 automakers compete in China, where state support from national, provincial and city governments has helped sustain local champions and delayed long-expected consolidation that could entail significant job losses.

[Among some 130 Chinese car brands, only three are profitable, and analysts say more than 100 will go bankrupt.]]

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Analysts say overseas performance, particularly in Europe, is likely to become an increasingly important measure of which automakers can thrive independently.

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