Chery South Africa Gears Up for Hybrid Revolution with 19 New Models in 2025
Chery South Africa is set to enter the hybrid vehicle market, promising to introduce 19 new hybrid models across the HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), and REEV (Range-Extender Electric Vehicle) categories in 2025.
The first glimpse into this new era will be at Auto Shanghai 2024, where Chery will officially launch its dedicated Super Hybrid (CSH) brand. The Tiggo 7 CSH, Tiggo 8 CSH, and the flagship Tiggo 9 CSH will make their public debut at the event. These models will showcase the technology that underpins Chery's hybrid strategy. At the time of writing, our very own Tayedza Mbiri was in China to experience the new models in the metal, and his impressions will follow in due course.
Related: Chery Tiggo Cross Elite (2025) Video Review
Efficiency and Power
The next-generation CSH range is said to boast a 46.5% thermal efficiency. Paired with a hybrid transmission achieving 93% efficiency, these powertrains are said to offer excellent fuel returns, with consumption figures as low as 2–3 L/100 km. The 2.0 TGDI hybrid engine, working in tandem with DHT230 and DHT280 transmissions, delivers up to 280kW, with the hybrid motor speed reaching up to 24 000 r/min.
Multiple Hybrid Platforms
Chery's hybrid strategy is built upon several platforms:
- Super Hybrid Off-road Platform: Hinting at off-road-ready hybrid SUVs.
- Super Golden Extended-Range Platform: Focusing on maximising electric range for PHEVS and REEVS.
- High-performance Electric platform: Suggesting high performance models are going to be available.
- Super Hybrid platform: The core foundation for a broad range of hybrid vehicles.
South African relevance
Jay Jay Botes, General Manager for Chery South Africa, said, "Advancing hybrid technology means harnessing innovation and new energy to drive sustainable growth and support a greener future. We believe Super Hybrid technology will become a key growth driver in markets like South Africa, especially as we expand our local lineup with electrified models later this year." This confirms that South African consumers won't have to wait long to experience Chery's hybrid prowess."
Real-World Testing Underway
Chery is putting the Tiggo 9 CSH through a demanding 1 600 km long-distance evaluation across four days. The route spans from the Three Gorges, through Wuhan and Wuzhen, culminating in Shanghai.
What This Means for South African Car Buyers
Chery's commitment to introducing 19 hybrid models in 2025 signifies a significant shift in the South African automotive market, but we'll have to see just how many of these reach local shores. Consumers will soon have access to a broader range of fuel-efficient products from a brand that is now constantly in the top 5 each month when looking at passenger car sales. Keep an eye on AutoTrader SA for the latest updates on Chery's hybrid vehicle launch and detailed reviews of the upcoming models.
