Chinese car manufacturer Chery is taking steps to enter the increasingly popular electric vehicle (EV) sector in the world’s largest vehicle market. On Friday, the Anhui province-based carmaker unveiled its ambitious plan for electrification. Gao Xinhua, executive vice-president of Chery, announced that this year, the company will launch a platform for hybrids and another for EVs, along with cutting-edge technologies for its batteries and operating systems.
Chery’s high-end Exeed marque also introduced a new energy vehicle (NEV) product line called Sterra, which will cover a range of models from sedans to SUVs and MPVs. These models will be available in both electric and range-extending versions. In addition, Chery showcased its third-generation hybrid technology. The dedicated powertrain features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that generates a maximum output of 115 kW and a top torque of 220 Nm. According to the company, the third-generation technology allows vehicles to sprint from zero to 100 km/hour in 4.6 seconds.
Chery plans to launch at least 20 models using its latest hybrid technology from 2023 to 2024. In addition, the carmaker unveiled its standalone NEV brand, iCar, at the same event. Further details about the brand and its models are expected to be revealed on April 16.
China has been the world’s largest market for NEVs. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, 6.89 million electric cars and plug-in hybrids were sold in 2022, up 93.4% year-on-year, and this figure is expected to reach 9 million by the end of this year. With such a large and growing market, it is no surprise that Chery is eager to enter the EV market with its electrification plans and new product lines.
Chery’s electrification plan is part of a broader trend among Chinese automakers as they increasingly shift towards EVs. This trend has been driven in part by government policies aimed at promoting cleaner energy and reducing pollution. As China continues to lead the way in EV adoption, it is likely that more Chinese automakers will follow in Chery’s footsteps and ramp up their efforts to explore the EV sector.
