2023 saw the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition return with much pomp and ceremony. After a delay due to the global pandemic, the 20th instalment of the show once again attracted visitors from across the world, all eager to lay eyes on the latest developments from the Chinese market and global players. A strong contingent of South African motoring media was in attendance with the Chery Brand Launch Conference in Wuhu coinciding with the auto show.
Related: Omoda C5 (2023) Launch First Drive Review
It was here where Chery unveiled a host of new products with discussions around the expansion of these brands into a global market.
Introduction of O&J Brands
O&J doesn't stand for 'orange juice' but Omoda and Jaecoo, two brands under the Chery umbrella. South Africa has already been introduced to Omoda as the Omoda C5, but this recent conference showcased the new Omoda 5 EV. The Jaecoo 7 and 9 were also presented to the media. The Jaecoo 7 is ready for production and will be the first model to enter the global market for the Chery sub-brand.
Chery has identified that the current landscape is concentrating on New Energy Vehicles and intelligent mobility and, as such, has positioned both the Omoda and Jaecoo brands accordingly. Omoda will appeal to the style-conscious consumer, and the models incorporate a sporty design combined with contemporary tech features. Similarly, the Jaecoo brand will focus on customers who appreciate the outdoors and can be considered urban offroad enthusiasts. Thus, expect the Jaecoo models to be more 4x4 and SUV-orientated, while the Omoda models will comprise mainly crossovers and compact SUVs.
Future Tech
The engineers at Chery have revealed that they have at least 15 core technologies reserved and are currently working on seven new models in four major applications. This bodes well for the Chinese brand, and soon, their expansion will see them enter the markets in Israel, Mexico, and Kuwait. South Africa isn't left off of that list, and we can expect to see several new models by the fourth quarter of 2023.
Coinciding with their launch will introduce a new, unique automotive ecosystem that will help customers throughout the buying and ownership phases of their Omoda or Jaecoo journey, allowing them to have input into the brand's future and the models they buy.
