Author: Romano Beer

• Chery and Aimoga have joined forces to create a bipedal robot with Embodied AI named Mornine
• New robot will be designed for different applications, including working in the auto industry and supporting customers
• Mornine to usher in a complete product range for Chery

Chery has stunned guests to its CEO Conference by announcing that it will launch a completely new model – a bipedal robot driven by artificial intelligence – at the conference.

The robot is called Mornine, and it has a highly biomimetic design to mimic the shape and movement of a human. It was designed by Chery in partnership with Aimoga, a technology company with deep expertise in robotics and artificial intelligence.

Mornine will feature a human-like face made from lifelike silicone that can move and mimic human oral and facial muscles. This, combined with its in-built Large Language Model (LLM), means that Mornine will be able to answer questions, respond to instructions and assist people in a natural and humanlike way.

For Chery, the new humanoid robot is not merely a showcase of its engineering capabilities. It sees this as a new model range that will be able to meet the needs of a new range of customers. For instance, Mornine could act as a guide, a salesperson, a receptionist or even – in later iterations – as a caregiver, guide, domestic assistant and nurse.
According to the company, Mornine will develop its capabilities in three distinct phases.

The first phase will see Mornine act as an information provider. In this phase, the robot will interact with customers to answer questions and provide information. While offering this service, the robot will increasingly learn how to interact with humans and learn different accents, conversation styles and the typical needs of customers.

During the second phase, Mornine will progress to use more of its advanced capabilities, such as visual recognition and autonomous navigation. This will include walking with customers to assist them, using its arms for demonstrations or other operations and even helping customers with certain tasks.

In its third and final development phase, Mornine will use what it has learned to become a competent assistant to its human owners. This can include services such as child minding and education, assisting elderly customers with home tasks and even cleaning and cooking for its owner.

“In launching Mornine, Chery will celebrate the pioneers in the world of humanoid robots, such as the well-known Atlas of Boston Dynamics, and show how it has used its extensive knowledge of customer requirements, engineering and machine-human interfaces to take humanoid robots to a completely new level.

“In time, we see a potential market for Chery Humanoid Robots to help customers with menial tasks and even assist those with physical challenges to enjoy a full and rewarding life,” says Tony Liu, Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa, who is attending the conference and the Auto China show with dealers and media from South Africa.

The Chery Tiggo 7 family continues to woo the hearts of South African consumers.
First this range conquered the world and in its current two local incarnations, the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro MAX, it continues to be a firm favourite of local consumers.

CHERY SA launched the Tiggo7 Pro Max in November 2023, as the first Chery AWD model in the South African market, offering customers an improved driving experience across multiple terrains. The vehicle’s popularity in the local market and has led to the recent expansion of the range which now includes the Tiggo7 Pro Max Premium Derivative. This lower-specced model is equipped with a Dual Curved Screen, wireless Car Play & Android Auto, 8-speaker Sony sound system, and Chery’s popular intelligent voice command – all for R499 900 for the Two-wheel drive- and R569 900 for the All-wheel drive derivative. As an introductory offer, Chery SA is sweetening the deal by including a 7year/200 000km warranty on these vehicles for a limited period.

According to retail sales data for the 1st quarter of 2024, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro series achieved 3rd position in the mid-sized SUV segment with a total of 1060 units sold for the period.

There are many reasons for the local and global popularity of the Tiggo 7 Pro range.

It has proved to satisfy every possible need and demand that the automobile connoisseur might have – whether it be aesthetics, performance, technology, safety, space or driving pleasure – the Tiggo 7 range has deservedly won the adoration, trust and loyalty of the vehicle markets both internationally and locally.

One would not be amiss to say that this range literally has it all. The engineers and designers at Chery have relentlessly pursued beauty, and features in these models have propelled them to the top of their category.

Its range-unique diamond grille, T-shaped crystal-clear LED fog lamps, crystal matrix LED headlights and stylish front lip decoration have given it an otherworldly space-age appeal that underscores its technological and engineering features.

These internal combustion models boast more than ample power. Equipped with a 1.6T and 7DCT powertrain, it is always ready to work or play at whatever your whim might be. Its full-scene intelligent control four-wheel drive system can instantly switch between six driving modes offering superior driving pleasure and an extraordinary mobility experience.

In the cockpit, from where your driving experience begins, a 24.6” dual-screen that supports multi-touch and links easily, ensuring smooth operation. The 50W wireless fast-charging and Type C interface ensure the fast-charging needs of passengers are conveniently met. Driver and passenger seats are equipped with electric adjustment and seat ventilating heat functions as well as dual-zone automatic air conditioning. Sony audio with eight speakers and 64-colour gradient ambient lightning ensures an immersive music experience.

As always, safety has been the prime consideration when designing of the Tiggo 7 family. Its high strength body, six air bags (8 air bags on Pro Max models) and other safety configurations provide the ultimate in safety for you and your precious passengers and cargo. It also features 18 intelligent driving assistance functions, including LKA, ACC, AEB and BSD. And to drive this point home, remember that it has achieved a 5-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) in Australia, which proves Chery’s commitment to excellence in automotive safety.

Chery – China’s biggest vehicle exporter and a global technology leader – will unveil the next phase of its rapidly advancing technology at this year’s Beijing Auto Show.

The Beijing Auto Show is scheduled for 25 to 30 April at the Beijing International Exhibition Centre in China’s capital city. The show has evolved from humble roots as a national motor show in 1990 to the largest and arguably the most influential new vehicle and auto industry show in the world, and Chery is once again taking the centre stage.

“New energy vehicles (NEVs) are the talk of the town in Beijing and Chery is getting ready to wow visitors with the fourth generation of its QPower platform. While the platform is designed for zero emission vehicles, it also accommodates low emission internal combustion engines, hybrid models and hydrogen power, making it truly groundbreaking,” says Tony Liu, Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa.

Liu and a group of South African dealers will join the global dealer conference that is scheduled to be held alongside the Beijing Auto Show. Chery will host media and dealers from across its global network at the show and conference to share the exciting news about the QPower platform and launch a number of new vehicles.

To capture the importance of the show and dealer conference, Chery has coined the phrase “New Energy, New Eco, New Era”.

According to Liu, the rise of new energy vehicles has forever changed the trajectory of automobile manufacturing.

This green revolution has seen the global sales of new energy vehicles (NEV) surge to 14.6 million units in 2023 with an expectancy that it will surpass 18 million units in 2024.

Chery expects the growth to accelerate further as it, and other global leaders, address factors such as range anxiety, governments’ eagerness to bolster NEV adoption with policy incentives as well as consumers’ heightened conservation and energy sensitivities.

Returning to the new QPower platform, Chery has hinted at next-generation performance from its hybrid and EV versions that have previously been considered impossible. For instance, Chery will show in Beijing how its new hybrid models will use advances in ICE and EV technology to deliver a fuel range of over 1 400 km per tank.

Add to this an average fuel consumption of only 4.2 litres / 100 km and a tested acceleration figure of only 4.26 seconds to 100 km/h from standstill.

To achieve these incredible numbers Chery engineers combined its know-how across all technologies. For instance, the new hybrid models use two electric motors for rapid acceleration, but also to double energy harvesting when coasting.

At the same time, the ICE part of the hybrid system has a thermal efficiency rate of 44.5%, giving it better performance per litre of fuel than nearly any other combustion engine in a hybrid or traditional vehicle.

“At Beijing, we will show how Chery is combining these rapid advancements in green technology with advancements in self-driving, artificial intelligence and smarter human-vehicle interfaces,” says Liu.

These advancements include new cockpit technology that gives meaning to the concept of making a car the owner’s “third living space” and using artificial intelligence to pair different manufacturing facilities to roll out new environmentally friendly innovations in real time and turn these factories into zero emission and zero-defect “super factories”.

“We invite our Chery family and fans of the brand to watch the news as we unveil the next generation of vehicles with the promise that these technologies will not only be a showpiece, but form the heart of our new models, both in China and here in South Africa,” says Liu.

Chery South Africa has unveiled its long-awaited new flagship, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro MAX with all-wheel drive.

The new model joins the growing Tiggo Pro line-up as the top of the range model and promises to welcome even more customers to this fast-growing family. The Awd model will be the third model in the lineup – Starting with T8 Pro Executive 1.6 FWD and the T8 Pro Max 2.0 FWD.

At the heart of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD is the platform and specification of its two-wheel drive sibling. This means that the new flagship lacks for nothing in terms of performance, specification, or luxury fitment.

What is new, is the proprietary Chery all-wheel drive system. The system has a front-wheel drive bias during normal driving. This benefits the vehicle’s average fuel consumption and everyday driveability, while also offering a familiar driving experience to existing Tiggo 8 Pro MAX owners.

When drivers shift from everyday commuting to more spirited driving, or finds themselves in slippery and wet conditions, the all-wheel drive system comes into play.

“Our engineers have spent a considerable amount of development and testing hours with the all-wheel drive system to ensure that it is robust enough to work in the blink of an eye, but that it also offers a long operational life,” says Tony Liu, Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa.

The result of all this development is an all-wheel drive system that can switch from two- to four-wheel drive in 100 milliseconds. This means the operation is imperceptible to the driver, while providing additional grip and stability on slippery surfaces or during high-speed dynamic driving.

During its development, Chery repeatedly pushed up to ten times the expected vehicle torque through the all-wheel drive system to ensure that its operation remains faultless and fast, regardless of the conditions or the workload.

“Chery completed another round of extreme weather testing in 2023. The results of these tests have been incorporated in the design of the all-wheel drive system. It means that whether the driver finds him/herself in snowy or desert conditions, the Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD will deliver,” says Liu.

The wheels are driven by Chery’s award-winning 2.0 TDGI turbo-petrol engine. The engine has been programmed to deliver 187 kW at 5 500 rpm and 390 Nm from 2 000 rpm to 4 000 rpm, while the 7DCT dual-clutch self-shifting transmission has been mapped to smoothly deliver this power to two- or four wheels as required.

As with the Tiggo 8 Pro MAX, the MAX AWD model is built on Chery’s flagship platform that uses ultra-high tensile steel in over 60% of the body construction. Add to this a complete list of Autonomous Driver Assistant Systems (ADAS) and no-less than nine airbags (10 airbags for AWD) and you have one of the safest vehicles in its class.

The ADAS systems that come standard in this flagship model include autonomous emergency braking (AEV), adaptive cruise control with radar controls, lane keep assistance (LKA), rear cross traffic alert (RTCA), traffic congestion assistance (TJA) and even a driving view recorder (DVR) as standard . the Advance ADSA feature for the AWD are as follows, DMS (Driver Monitoring System), Emergency Lane Keeping & Lane Departure Prevention & Intelligent Evasion System.

Move to luxury and the Chery is peerless. The new flagship offers quilted leather upholstery on all seven seats, the door bolsters and on the dashboard. There is ambient lighting with over 64 hues that can be matched to the music from the premium SONY sound system(10 speakers (power amplifier)), the driving style or the driver’s mood. {please mention 10 speakers (power amplifier)

Add to this a fully digital cockpit with two large 12.3” screens for a large super screen that is 24.7” long. The infotainment section of the screen has full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless contact) functionality, and it will show a full panoramic view of the vehicle thanks to the 360-degree camera (use upgraded AVM SYSTEM) array.

The flagship Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD has a superior air conditioning system with two independent zones and an upgraded air quality sensor (AQS) that ensures that the air is N95 certified clean. In addition, there is a Fragrance System with 3 different scents, Updated Suspension for AWD System with 6 Drive models, and an increase fuel tank (51L to 57L)

A host of other features too long to mention are included in the Tiggo 8 Pro MAX, including a super-fast wireless charger, electric memory seats for the front passengers that are both heated and cooled, multiple Type A and Type C chargers and a large panoramic sunroof.

Lastly, the Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD offers a true first-class experience after purchase.

As with all other Chery models, the Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD is sold with a comprehensive 7-year / 90 000 km service plan, a 5-year / 150 000 km warranty, a full 10-year / 1-million-kilometre engine warranty (linked to the first owner), Plus 5-year unlimited Km Roadside assistance, and Chery’s range of Value-added Services (My Chery Care). These include free roadside assistance, scratch and dent repair, rim repair, a courtesy Chery when a vehicle is booked for service and even a free take-me-home service.

The new Chery Tiggo 8 Pro MAX AWD is available immediately from Chery dealers across South Africa. It retails for R 731 900, 00.

Chery is South Africa’s second-largest SUV brand.

The company received this news as the final sales statistics for 2023 were tallied and validated. It shows that Chery sold twice as many vehicles in 2023 as in 2022 and that it is the second-best-selling brand among SUV customers.

“We are very happy with the news that Chery is one of the most popular SUV brands in the country.

“If you consider that Chery only sells SUVs, our doubling of sales and overall ranking is very impressive because we do not sell any commercial vehicles or entry-level cars to bolster our sales numbers,” says Tony Liu, Deputy General Manager of Chery South Africa.

According to the final sales statistics for South African vehicle sales, in 2023, Chery sold a total of 16 110 vehicles. This is a major jump from 2022, when Chery sold an already impressive 8 013 vehicles.

Of the total sales, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro sold 9,916 vehicles, making it the most popular model range for Chery and one of the overall best-selling passenger vehicles in South Africa. This also means that Tiggo 4 Pro sales more than doubled in one year.

The Tiggo 4 Pro range was expanded in 2023 to include the Tiggo 4 Pro LiT in manual and automatic variants. This model lowered the entry into the Chery family to only R279 900 while retaining the brand’s impressive warranty and service support.

“Our 10-year / 1 000 000 km engine warranty remains unmatched in South Africa. Chery also pioneered the inclusion of value-added services in the sales price, including rim, scratch and dent repair and even a take-me-home service,” says Liu.

Liu is referring to Chery’s decision to include items that a vehicle owner would pay extra for – such as paint protection insurance or protection against rim damage – in the vehicle’s sales price. These features are included under the banner of the Chery Cares package, while a number of extended service plan and warranty options are also available through the Chery Extender Programme.

On the other end of the luxury spectrum, Chery welcomed to new Pro MAX models to the range. The Tiggo 7 Pro MAX and Tiggo 8 Pro MAX takes the luxury and performance specifications of the previous range-topping models and adds even more specification and engine power.

With the addition of these new flagship models and new technology, such as four-wheel drive on the Tiggo 7 Pro MAX, both these SUV ranges also saw their sales numbers jump significantly in 2023.

In 2023, Chery also entered the big leagues as the official presidential vehicle partner of the BRICS Summit and later in the year as the new vehicle partner to the Lions Rugby Company.
During the recent festive season, Chery joined the Lions and Reach For A Dream to deliver gifts and cheer to children with life-threatening illnesses at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital’s children’s ward.

This was but one of many social initiatives launched by Chery in 2023. The brand visited children’s homes and family care centres in Johannesburg and Soweto and, on a global scale, partnered with UNICEF to help vulnerable and marginalised children across the globe.

“We hope to announce a new initiative between UNICEF and Chery South Africa soon. This partnership will benefit poor and vulnerable children in South Africa,” says Liu.

To support its rapidly growing car parc, Chery also opened a new parts warehouse in Gauteng. Designed to deliver parts and components to every Chery dealer every day, the new warehouse covers over 7,000 square metres and carries an average of R70 million in parts at any given time.

“With our new parts warehouse, we have been able to achieve an immediate fill rate of 98% and a 99% claim approval rating on our mechanical warranties,” says Liu.

• In 2023, Chery Group achieved significant milestones, with annual sales of 1,881,316 units, representing a year-on-year growth of 52.6%, surpassing the industry growth rate;
• In 2023, Chery Group exported 937,148 vehicles, representing a year-on-year growth of 101.1% and securing 21 consecutive years as China’s top passenger car exporter;

Chery Holding Group has announced its sales for the year 2023. With December concluded at a monthly sales volume of 215,690 units, Chery Group achieved a remarkable “twelve consecutive increases” in sales for the year 2023. Reaching historic annual sales of 1,881,316 vehicles, the company achieved a year-on-year growth of 52.6%.

Group annual export of vehicles reached 937,148 units, representing a remarkable year-on-year increase of 101.1%, securing 21 consecutive years as China’s top passenger car exporter.
As a result, Chery Group’s global automotive user base has now exceeded 13 million, with 3.35 million users located overseas.

Chery focused on different segments in 2023, introducing innovative products such as the Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid, Tiggo 7 Pro Plug-in Hybrid, and eQ series, among other new energy products. The comprehensive range of “New Energy and Conventional Fuel” vehicles was formed by collaborating with main models like the Tiggo 8 series, Tiggo 7 series, and Arrizo 8, driving sustained and rapid growth in the group’s sales.

Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid model.

Tiggo 7 Pro Plug-in Hybrid model.

Tiggo 8 Pro Max model.

Tiggo 7 Pro Max model.

Arrizo 8 model.

 

With “Green, Technology, Family, and Companionship” as its core brand values, Chery’s globalization strides in 2023 have become more robust, leading to a continuous increase in brand influence. In the “2023 Chinese Global Brand Builders Top 50” jointly released by Google and Kantar, Chery secured the top position in the automotive category. Adhering to the global corporate citizenship concept of “In somewhere, for somewhere”, Chery actively engages in the economic development, ESG construction, livelihood, and charitable activities of the countries where its overseas markets are located. In response to the 7.8-magnitude earthquake in Turkey, Chery Turkey took immediate rescue action within 30 minutes, becoming the first local automotive company to do so. Chery Automotive donated $6 million to UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) for international children’s education projects and signed a memorandum of cooperation with the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature), working together to promote the protection of fragile environments worldwide and conveying warmth and companionship through responsibility and love. In 2023, over 2,000 overseas dealers, foreign media, and customers from more than 50 countries and regions visited Chery’s headquarters, jointly experiencing the unique charm of Chery.

Chery and users from 50 markets participated in a Cycle Ride for Charity.

In 2023, Chery steadfastly pursued technological innovation, achieving an accelerated evolution of “Tech Chery” with groundbreaking achievements. At the Qatar GIMS (Geneva International Motor Show), Chery officially unveiled its QPower architecture under the theme “Evolution for Future”. QPower represents 26 years of accumulated and leapfrogged power technology from Chery. It is a comprehensive professional power solution covering mainstream power forms such as ICE, PHEV, BEV, and hydrogen power. QPower boasts energy advantages like “strong and swift”, “efficient and green”, and “high-energy and intelligent”, fully meeting owners’ green travel demands in terms of power performance, range, fast charging, and comprehensive safety. The introduction of QPower not only brings more innovation to the global automotive industry but also provides global owners with a better driving experience. Additionally, Chery’s Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid and the Tiggo 7 Pro Plug-in Hybrid made their debut at the Qatar GIMS, attracting international attention with the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, Tiggo 7 Pro Max, Arrizo 8, and other flagship models.

Launch event of QPower Architecture at the Qatar GIMS.

In 2023, Chery hosted “Chery Tech Day” for the second consecutive year, unveiling the latest achievements of its forward-looking technology strategy. The company comprehensively focuses on five major technological domains, boasting more than 140 established and under-construction technology laboratories. Chery has accumulated leading technologies in intelligent hybrid architecture, batteries, electric propulsion, and more. This effort is aimed at creating high-quality products with comprehensive advancements in “safety”, “space”, “energy consumption”, “intelligence”, and “ecology” for global owners, thereby constructing a technology innovation chain tailored for the future.

The Chery Tech DAY conference.

Chery continues to enhance the gold-standard labels of “Made in China” and “Created in China” in terms of quality. In the “2023 China Initial Quality Study^SM (IQS)” released by J.D. Power, Chery ranks first among self-owned brands. Chery’s leading collision testing lab in Asia conducted 532 vehicle collision tests during 2023, setting a new historical record. Among them, the representative model of Chery, the Tiggo 7 Pro, achieved a five-star rating in the Australian A-NCAP (2023). To address owners’ “electric safety concerns”, Chery has improved electric safety protection in various aspects, including hardware facilities, safety measures, and electric safety.

Chery Tiggo 7 Pro receives A-NCAP five-star safety certification.

Entering 2024, Chery Group continues to set annual business goals of “far exceeding the industry growth rate & greater achievements than in 2023”.  The company persists in the development of high-quality products, characterized by “Brand Upward, Market Outward, Technology Forward, and Industry Toward the Entire Value Chain”.  The aim is to significantly enhance the enterprise’s capability levels, maintain continuous improvement in business quality, and accelerate the pace toward becoming a world-class brand. In 2024, Chery will launch a series of new PHEV and BEV models in multiple markets, equipped with cutting-edge technologies such as the new generation DHE/DHT, artificial intelligence, autonomous driving, and an intelligent cockpit, continuously enhancing the technological attributes of its vehicles through product iterations.

Chery, one of the largest global automotive brands, has announced that its TIGGO 7 PRO which was launched in Australia recently (introduced in South Africa as the Tiggo 7 Pro Max), has achieved a 5-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) in Australia. The TIGGO 7 PRO Max was launched in South Africa in November to positive reception in the market.

The 5-star ANCAP safety rating is confirmation of Chery’s commitment to excellence in automotive safety, ensuring the utmost protection for its customers and other road users. ANCAP, known for its rigorous and independent vehicle safety evaluations, conducted assessments to determine the safety performance of Chery’s TIGGO 7 PRO.

The TIGGO 7 PRO scored 88% for Adult Occupant Protection, 87% Child Occupant Protection, 72% Vulnerable Road User Protection and 86% Safety Assist.

“We are delighted to receive the prestigious 5-star ANCAP safety rating for the TIGGO 7 PRO – known as the Tiggo 7 PRO Max in South Africa,” said Verene Petersen, Marketing Manager for Chery South Africa. “Chery places a high emphasis on safety, and this acknowledgement highlights our steadfast dedication to delivering vehicles that adhere to the most stringent safety standards, offering assurance and peace of mind to customers.”

Chery has seen the demand for its entire range of vehicles increase exponentially after its most recent new model introductions. This includes the new MY23 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro MAX, the Tiggo 4 Pro LiT and most recently, the Tiggo 7 Pro MAX.

Both Pro MAX models set a new standard for the level of quality, technology and performance that Chery customers can expect in the mid-range SUV market.

For instance, the Tiggo 7 Pro MAX offers the option of all-wheel drive, a new AI-optimised camera-array that shows a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle when manoeuvring and even eliminates the car itself from the picture to show the ground below, if the driver so chooses.

The Tiggo7 PRO Max AWD derivative is also equipped with a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) which assesses driver alertness levels by way of monitoring facial expressions for signs of distraction and fatigue and then alerts the driver accordingly.

Add to this a powerful 145 kW 1.6 TGDI-engine that is covered for 10 years or a million kilometres and a range of bolt-on Chery Extender products such as a longer service plan or full warranty, and you see why the vehicles are gaining popularity among South African vehicle buyers.

On the other end of the performance and price spectrum, and equally in demand, is Chery’s new Tiggo 4 Pro LiT which was also introduced in South Africa in November and brings the Chery brand within reach of a large, new segment of value-conscious customers.

Chery is readying itself to “strike on all fronts” with a range of new energy vehicles (NEV) slated for introduction in 2024.

The group – officially the largest vehicle exporter in China – reaffirmed its commitment to introduce hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric (BEV) and other NEV models into international markets in the coming year.

“Chery has outperformed the South African market consistently over the past two years, and we believe that we can further accelerate our sales performance by entering the NEV market.
“As our short history in South Africa has shown, we do not simply enter a new market segment with a new model. We compete aggressively by offering some of the best specifications, the best possible warranty and the best possible range of value-added products.

“This has allowed us not only to win sales from competitor brands, but also to grow the market segment that we have entered,” says Tony Liu, Deputy Executive General Manager of Chery South Africa.

Liu’s comments are pertinent to the South African NEV market segment, which has remained quite small compared to the traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) market.

In China, Chery has seen significant sales growth in the NEV market with its range of PHEV and BEV models. This includes its new Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles.

For instance, in November Chery sold 212 076 vehicles. This is an increase of 111% over the same month last year and it is an all-time monthly record for the brand. Total sales for Chery in 2023, including PHEV and EV models in its domestic market, are up by 47.8% to 1 665 626 vehicles.

The Tiggo PHEV models use a proprietary hybrid system that was developed by Chery and tested for over five million kilometres and 30 000 hours. This makes the new Chery PHEV system one of the most comprehensively tested propulsion systems in the history of the automotive world.

At the heart of this system is a new dual electric motor system with a clean-burning turbo-petrol internal combustion engine. The system is a full hybrid, which means that it can run on electricity alone, combine both power units or use the internal combustion engine alone.

The system uses a consumer version of the kinetic energy regeneration system (KERS) used in motorsport to recharge the batteries during normal driving. The owner can also plug the vehicle in to charge the batteries, giving the vehicle a longer electric-only driving range.

“One of the many benefits of the extensive testing of the hybrid system is that our Chery engineers were able to develop very specific driving modes for every use case. This is built into the hybrid system and the vehicle will switch between the systems automatically,” says Liu.

The driving mode includes use cases such as city driving, driving on mountainous roads or mountain passes, high-performance driving and driving long distances. In each case, the battery electric system, the engine and all other related systems such as the continuously variable transmission (CVT) adjust their operation to offer the best possible performance with the lowest fuel usage.

“In our real-world testing, the new PHEV Tiggo models offer a range of close to 1 000 kilometres. We cannot wait to introduce them in South Africa,” says Liu.

Chery South Africa celebrated yet another successful sales month in November.

The brand recorded total sales of 1 501, which matches its performance in the same month last year, while the overall industry has declined by 9.8% over the same period.

With such a strong performance in November, the brand is heading to a record year in South Africa. Total sales to date are 25.1% better than year to date performance in 2022. With such a strong performance, Chery has maintained the number six spot in the passenger vehicle market.

“The growth of the Chery brand should be seen in light of the general decline in the automotive market and the relatively short period that Chery has been in South Africa. This makes our performance all the more significant and we would like to thank every South African family who and business that has placed their trust in us,” says Tony Liu, Deputy Executive General Manager of Chery South Africa.

The company’s performance in South Africa mirrors that of its global sales performance.

The global Chery Group reported total sales of 212 076 vehicles in November. This is a massive 111% up on the same month last year. It also means that Chery has logged 11 months of consecutive growth across the globe, with total global sales of 1 656 626 vehicles from January to November. Sales in the year to date are already 47.8% better than in 2022.

In South Africa, Chery has fuelled its sales success in South Africa with a number of new model introductions. These include a refreshed flagship range, a new entry-level model and a new range in the form of the Tiggo Pro 7 MAX.

In terms of flagships, Chery introduced the upgraded Tiggo 8 Pro and Pro MAX. These models offer an even higher level of standard specification, with upgraded infotainment systems, a new look and even lower levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

The same can be said for the new range of Tiggo 7 Pro MAX models. This range offers a luxurious transition between the standard Tiggo 7 Pro range and the new Tiggo 8 Pro and Pro MAX.
Like the Tiggo 8 Pro range, the new Tiggo 7 Pro MAX range offers a higher level of standard specification and performance. The latter comes in the form of a new 1.6 turbocharged petrol engine that delivers power to the front, or all-four wheels through a 7-speed DCT automated manual transmission.

Chery also welcomed a new entry-level model in the form of the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT. This model brought the vehicle within reach of a new group of buyers looking for the best value-for-money SUV below R300 000. Its price of R279 900 has made it one of the best-selling models in the range and gave Chery an opportunity to offer it at a monthly instalment of only R3 999.
Says Jay Jay Botes, General Manager of Chery South Africa: “We have worked very hard to set a new value-for-money benchmark in the SUV segment. All our models, even the most affordable Tiggo 4 Pro LiT, are offered with our 10-year / 1-million-kilometre engine warranty and a service plan.

“But a good warranty and service plan are not enough and have to be combined with great design, good performance, high specification levels and high levels of active and passive safety. Lastly, a brand is only as good as its service and for that we would like to thank all the Chery dealers for their tireless work in supporting our customers.”

In this regard, Liu notes that the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro was voted the People’s Choice in the SA Guild of Mobility Journalists’ Car of the Year competition. This award is allocated solely to the most popular car amongst customers and the public and is based on a public vote.

Chery has been nominated for Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, based on the same criteria of good customer service and high support from the public.

The Cars.co.za Consumer Awards will be held early in 2024, following comprehensive vehicle testing and customer interviews with hundreds of actual vehicle owners on their vehicle.

Introducing the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max

As the champions of more, Chery South Africa is proud to announce a new addition to the TIGGO 7 Pro range, the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max.

Engineered for every adventure, the TIGGO 7 Pro Max provides the option of a versatile all-wheel drive model and two-wheel drive model, while offering drivers the flexibility of choosing from six intelligent driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Muddy, and Off-Road.

Making its debut on South African soil, the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max takes the renowned TIGGO 7 Pro range to unprecedented heights, presenting drivers with world-class technology, the option of an exceptional all-wheel drive performance, and a refreshed, standout design.

The TIGGO 7 Pro series has already garnered remarkable success, with over 450,000 units sold globally in the past year with an impressive 100,000 units attributed to the New TIGGO Pro Max alone!

Setting a new standard in automotive excellence, the TIGGO 7 Pro Max undergoes more than 20 meticulous optimisations, spanning interior and exterior design, body and chassis structure, as well as materials. This commitment underscores Chery’s dedication to delivering an unmatched driving experience, further solidifying its presence in the dynamic automotive landscape of South Africa.

A New Design That Will Turn Heads

Chery’s world class designers refused to settle for a mere touch up when designing the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max. They demanded more than just increased performance and luxury; they crafted a unique visual style that would make the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max a true standout.

Adding to the exterior masterpiece is a bold, new grille, boasting an accentuated diamond pattern. Crafted from a dark gloss black polycarbonate weave, its embellished with chrome, diamond-shaped highlights, fashioning an utterly distinctive and captivating front design.

But that’s not all. The lower sill and side intakes have undergone a transformation, resulting in a commanding road presence that’s bound to leave a lasting impression. The new “Angel Wings” LED headlamps are an artful triumph of three-dimensional design.

The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max takes pride in its unique LED light-up sequence, both in the front and rear. As the sensors detect the key in hand, its LED lights perform a welcoming symphony of light, evoking a sense of occasion every time the driver approaches the vehicle.

Visual upgrades extend to the 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, with an elegant deep-dish pattern on the 2WD model, with the all-wheel drive model flaunting an even larger 19-inch rim.

To top it off, the powered tailgate plays host to the inspiring vehicle-wide LED light strip, a hallmark of the TIGGO 7 Pro range. With such meticulous attention to detail, Chery has truly outdone itself in making the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max an unforgettable SUV.

An Interior Masterclass

The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max is a true revolution in automotive design and technology, built to redefine the in-car experience, elevating every adventure the driver embarks on.

The cabin is illuminated in ambient light courtesy of a stepless LED light ring, which stretches from end-to-end, offering a spectrum of 64 captivating hues to create an immersive ambiance. The star of the dashboard is the 24.6-inch curved hyperboloid immersive screen that provides an ultra-high-definition display. This screen is the hub for information including climate controls and a wealth of entertainment options, including wired and wireless Apple CarPlay2, Offline Navigation, as well as Android Auto, offering an advanced level of connectivity and convenience.

The control centre has been redesigned to provide a seamless and intuitive experience. With a short-travel, light-touch gear lever and a selection knob for swift changes in driving mode, the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max places control at your fingertips, allowing for a smooth and responsive all-wheel drive.

Luxury and comfort take centre stage with the inclusion of one-piece, perforated leather sport front seats, now equipped with electric adjustment for a personalised fit. Tailored comfort is enhanced with the heated and ventilated driver and front seats, alongside the driver memory seat. While the premium 8-speaker SONY sound system offers an immersive auditory experience, ensuring you enjoy every moment of your journey.

Breathing fresh air has never been this satisfying, thanks to the enhanced air conditioning system, equipped with N95-level (pm 2.5) air purification capabilities. For the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max in Executive trim, the automatic quality control system (AQS) goes above and beyond by offering negative ion air purification, ensuring the cleanest in-cabin air quality.

The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max comes packed with exceptional features that Chery enthusiasts have come to expect, including an automated rear luggage door that opens when the driver approaches, dual-zone automatic climate control, “Hello Chery” Intelligent Voice Commands for effortless control, a vast panoramic sunroof covering over 1.1 square meters with an additional dark sunshade, and a state-of-the-art camera array that employs AI technology to provide a comprehensive view around the vehicle when needed. The wireless phone charging feature has been upgraded from 15W to an impressive 50W, ensuring rapid charging times for your devices.

Chery’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation shines brightly in every facet of the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max, setting a new standard for the in-car experience.

Safety Features You Can Depend On

Safety isn’t just a feature; it’s a core value embedded in the DNA of this extraordinary vehicle.

The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features that are designed to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers. In particular, this model boasts an impressive eight airbags, a notable upgrade from the six airbags in the standard TIGGO 7 Range.

Safety doesn’t stop at the airbags. The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max ensures an even higher level of safety with the inclusion of ABS brakes and electronic stability control, all of which work together to create a protective cabin for occupants.

For those who seek the pinnacle of safety, the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max Executive raises the bar further with its level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The ADAS system in this model introduces an astonishing array of 17 intelligent safety features, a testament to Chery’s dedication to keeping drivers and passengers secure. These features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Driver Monitoring System (DMS) on the Executive 4WD model, Multi-Collision Brake (MCB) and Lane Change Assist (LCA).

With these advanced safety features, the New TIGGO 7 Pro Max not only meets but surpasses the stringent safety standards set by the most exacting crash-testing authorities, including the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), the Australian NCAP, and the rigorous Asian NCAP.

More Power

In the world of Max, power reigns supreme. The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max is no exception, powered by Chery’s remarkable 1.6 TGDI turbo-petrol ATECO engine, a true engineering marvel that roars to life with 145kW and 290Nm of torque. The insignia of this power is proudly displayed on the rear boot lid in the form of the 290T logo.

Chery’s dedication to engineering excellence is evident in the accolades they’ve earned. The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max’s powertrain is part of a distinguished line-up of Chery engines that emerged victorious in the prestigious China Heart competition for the most efficient engines.

But power is only half the story. The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max pairs this impressive engine with a dual clutch seven-speed transmission. For the 2WD models, this delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and a power delivery that’s nothing short of exhilarating. AWD models receive power to all wheels, ensuring a commanding and responsive drive, making every journey a thrilling adventure. The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max is your ideal travel companion, offering unparalleled comfort for your entire family. From city streets to rugged trails, its versatile capabilities ensure an impressive and comfortable journey no matter the terrain.

Celebrating Chery’s Second Birthday with the Unveiling of the TIGGO 7 Pro Max

This week, Chery proudly hosted a group of handpicked media guests for an exhilarating test drive of the TIGGO 7 Pro Max. Against the scenic backdrop of the Western Cape coast, the adventurous journey spanned both tar and dirt roads, showcasing the exceptional performance and versatility of the vehicle.
Adding to the excitement, Chery marked its second birthday with a special evening which included key South African customers. The celebration included Lions guest Rudolf Straeuli, CEO of the Lions Rugby, and Pieter Burger, Managing Director of Ellis Park Stadium. As a highlight of the evening, Chery honoured the Lions and Chery partnership, underscoring the brand’s commitment to fostering lasting collaborations.

As Chery enters its third year in South Africa, the brand remains dedicated to delivering innovative and world-class vehicles to its customers. The TIGGO 7 Pro Max stands as a testament to what is to come in the next 12 months.

The wait is over!

The TIGGO 7 Pro MAX in two-wheel drive is available immediately at dealers across South Africa. Pre-orders for the AWD models are now open. Customers who book now will receive R5000 when they take delivery of their vehicles in January 2024.

For those yearning for the thrill of the all-wheel drive models, we invite you to visit your local Chery dealer. Here, you’ll experience the power of the Pro Max firsthand, and an exclusive opportunity to be among the first to pre-order it.

And the good news doesn’t stop there. Every model comes with a 5-year / 60,000 km service plan, along with Chery’s renowned 1-million-kilometre / 10-year engine warranty, a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to support its customers in their journeys.

Lions Rugby is proudly driven by Chery this season. The 1st home game showcased star players being driven around the field to kick off this exciting new partnership.

Commenting on this partnership, Ellis Park Stadium Managing Director Pieter Burger, said it was encouraging to see corporate brands aligning themselves with sport in an incredibly challenging economic environment.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be aligned with an international vehicle brand such as Chery. With the sponsorship landscape being a challenge due to budget constraints, we are glad that Chery saw value in associating themselves with the Lions in what will in no doubt be an exciting journey for both brands.”

The New TIGGO 7 Pro Max Range Includes:

• TIGGO 7 Pro Max Distinction 2WD – R529,900
• TIGGO 7 Pro Max Executive 2WD – R559,900
• TIGGO 7 Pro Max Executive AWD – R609,900