Chinese automaker Chery Group will reportedly offer its new Omoda and Jaecoo electric cars in the South African market in 2023, local media ITWeb reports.
The all-electric Omoda C5 SUV will launch in several foreign markets across the globe, including South Africa, in the following months.
On the other hand, the plug-in hybrid SUV Jaecoo J7 will debut before the end of 2023, the report said.
What do we know about these “intelligent” EVs?
Chery formally introduced the Omoda and Jaecoo models at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show in April, leading the automaker’s new intelligent mobility-focused electrification strategy.
The Chinese automaker claims that these electric models employ its third-gen PHEV platform, which utilizes battery-electric propulsion and an ACTECO engine.
In addition, they also feature a Miller-cycle combustion system, which recirculates exhaust gases so they can be burned a second time through the combustion chamber. According to Omoda South Africa’s executive deputy GM, the Miller-cycle combustion system improves efficiency by cleaning the pollutants and ensuring that any leftover fuel from the injection is burned.
About the Omoda C5 SUV
The report indicated Chery’s statement that the Omoda C5 SUV is specifically designed for customers who prefer clean and intelligent mobility. It is also reliable, offering a driving range of 700km between charges.
“The Omoda C5 EV is not merely a concept, and the first left-hand-drive models have already been shipped to destinations across the world.
The model is under study for SA and other right-hand-drive countries like Australia, and we look forward to testing the model on local soil.”
Tony Liu, Omoda South Africa’s executive deputy GM
Liu further stated that the company’s next-gen platform aided Omoda’s shift from internal combustion engines to electric propulsion in the new C5 model.
Another interesting detail is that Chery did not modify the EV’s interior space and driving dynamics from the original turbo-petrol C5 but only changed the drivetrain setup. As obvious, the EV counterpart now has an electric motor and battery.
About the Jaecoo J7
Due to its hybrid feature, Chery claims that the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will offer more power. Moreover, it can apparently travel farther on electric power alone with its larger battery pack.
Unfortunately, Chery has not yet disclosed the final specs of the new J7 model.
See Also:
- Chery plans to accelerate the launch of the EV Omoda 5
- Chery to introduce the Omoda 5 SUV with EV, ICE options in UK next year
- Chinese electric automakers eye Europe with their in-car fridges and facial recognition
- CPCA: Top-selling vehicles and automakers in China in February
- China: Sales of plug-in vehicles reached almost 6 million in 2022
- GWM to introduce Ora as South Africa’s cheapest EV
Undoubtedly, launching these intelligent and clean vehicles in foreign markets such as South Africa will aid the Chinese automaker’s expansion plans. It will also boost global EV adoption, as it offers more options for prospective customers.
