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AsiaOne
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- AsiaOne
'Definitely a big improvement': How Chery went from cheap joke to become a competitive automotive player, Lifestyle News
Krado Low remembers the first time he drove a Chery in the mid-2000s. "The Chery QQ was memorable, but not for the right reasons," the 41-year-old marketing executive recalled. "It was quite noisy, very unrefined, and felt very cheaply made." "It was quite a torture to drive," he added. Indeed, Chery as a brand did not garner the best reputation when it first arrived in Singapore. The QQ, a tiny little hatchback, was often the butt of jokes, and was derided as a car that one only bought if they were desperate for a new car but could not afford anything else. Chery had other models back then too, like the T11 SUV and the A5 sedan, but they were also widely mocked as budget knockoffs of cars from other manufacturers. Indeed, the fact that Chery's first appearance here coincided with record low Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices in Singapore only served to further the brand's 'cheap' image. Azfar Hashim, a 41-year-old owner of a creative agency, remembered that one could drive away with a brand-new Chery QQ back then for around $30,000, inclusive of COE. If one opted to register it under the Off Peak Car (OPC) scheme, which offered an effective tax rebate of $17,000, the final driveaway price would be lower still. Like Krado, he also had a bad experience driving a Chery from that period. "I remember that the Chery T11 I test drove had a lingering plastic smell in the interior, and after a while I got a headache from the smell," he recalls. Still, Azfar observed that even though the T11 was lacking in refinement and build quality, it was a fairly spacious SUV, and offered decent value if one was willing to look past its flaws. Nevertheless, Chery generally suffered from poor sales in Singapore despite its budget pricing, and it struggled here until 2017 when its local distributor finally stopped importing cars from the brand. But with the rapid development of Chinese cars over the past few years, surely the Chery of today would be a vast improvement from back then? Indeed they are, as I found out when Chery invited AsiaOne to visit the brand's home city in Wuhu, China and check out some of their latest models to see how much has changed since those early days. One of the more intriguing aspects of the trip was a visit to the company's headquarters, where they showcased not only their wide array of current modern cars, but also displayed a few of their early models alongside, ostensibly to provide a contrast of how far the company has come in two decades of development. Today's Chery is a massive car-making conglomerate, and is the fourth largest automotive group in China, with several brands under its stable. Aside from the main Chery brand, it also offers two SUV-focused brands, Jetour and iCar, that both target different segments of the market. It also has two luxury premium brands, Exeed and Luxeed, with the latter being a joint collaboration with tech giant Huawei that focuses on high-tech electric vehicles (EVs). But what's unique about Chery that sets it apart from other Chinese carmakers is that it also has a completely different product and branding strategy for export markets, with a whole separate slate of brands that are specifically meant for overseas use. Most of these are often closely based on what Chery offers domestically. For example, Exlantix is mostly the export equivalent of Exeed, likewise Aiqar for iCar. Chery also announced at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show that it will be introducing Lepas, an all-new budget brand meant for less developed markets. The most prominent ones however are Omoda and Jaecoo, which were the first of Chery's export brands introduced in 2022. They have expanded their reach rapidly since then, making their way to several countries in Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, including Singapore. While some markets, like Malaysia, continue to use the Chery branding for some of the new generation models, the local distributor in Singapore has wisely opted otherwise, and decided to focus on the Omoda and Jaecoo branding when the carmaker returned to our shores in 2024. It's clearly a move to distance itself from the poor reputation that Chery had previously garnered here, and while it's still too early to judge on the success of the relaunch, from a product perspective, it looks like there have been massive improvements since then. The Omoda E5, which was the first car that marked Chery's comeback here, is a well-made electric crossover that can easily compete with the best mainstream offerings on the market. The Jaecoo J6 meanwhile is an electric SUV with very capable off-road abilities, and offers an interesting choice for those looking for something rugged and unique. The one that really made a statement though, is the Jaecoo J7, an SUV with a plug-in hybrid powerplant that could legitimately drive for more than 1,000km before needing to be recharged or refuelled. It's arguably the most impressive product so far from Chery's rebranding offensive, and one that has made consumers here sit up and take them seriously. Indeed, when both Azfar and Krado took a brief test drive in the J7 back in Singapore, they came away seeing the brand in a different light. Azfar remarked that the J7 had "a rather refined drive", and noted that the vast improvements in build quality, driving ability and overall package meant that the car brand "warrants a closer look from consumers." Likewise, Krado also noticed the improvements in refinement and build quality, and was also impressed by the level of standard equipment. "It's very well equipped," he pointed out, adding, "I like that the back seats can be adjusted with a few different angles, and there's also fully electric seat adjustments in front." There's certainly more in store for the brand ahead. During AsiaOne's visit to Wuhu, I was given a preview of the Jaecoo J8, a luxury SUV that bears more than a passing resemblance to offerings from premium brands like Audi and BMW, and is a sign of where Chery is aiming their sights. I also got a first look at the Omoda C3, a compact crossover that's boldly styled and targeted at younger customers. Its cyberpunk-inspired design is the brainchild of a development team that has an average age of 28, and among its highlights include an infotainment system that can be hooked up to gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch, turning it into a mobile game machine. While the future does look bright for Chery, there is definitely still room for improvement. AsiaOne's visit to Wuhu was part of Chery's week-long International Business Summit 2025, which saw over 2,000 guests from all over the world descend onto Chery's hometown, and it was somewhat clear that the company was not ready to handle international events of such a massive scale. Much of the trip felt rather disorganised, and occasionally chaotic, with many of the media guests and dealer partners frustrated at the perceived lack of planning and communication. The inexperience in organisation from the hosts was pretty telling, and some of the programme highlights, like the visit to the theme park and concert on the final day, just felt bizarre and out of place. Nevertheless, those are probably just hiccups, and hopefully it can offer Chery some valuable learning lessons as the company figures out how to cater to an international audience. In terms of actual cars though, there's no doubt that they are well on their way to delivering competitive products that can take on some of the best in the industry. The final word will be decided by the consumers themselves, of course, but as Krado notes, the brand has "definitely made a big improvement" from when it first emerged on the scene. In fact, the difference is so stark that even he was taken by surprise. "If you didn't tell me that this (Jaecoo J7) is from Chery, I wouldn't have known," he said. Given the development trajectory that Chery is on, it will surely be a matter of time before it loses the last vestiges of its cheap and nasty reputation. [[nid:712933]] No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.
Gulf Business
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Business
Chinese car brands gain ground in UAE's growing used vehicle market
Sebastian Fuchs, managing director of AutoData Middle East. Chinese car brands are rapidly gaining traction in the UAE's used car segment, reflecting shifting consumer preferences and a broader realignment of market dynamics in the region, reveals Sebastian Fuchs, managing director of AutoData Middle East. Fuchs, whose firm operates the Vehicle Report platform, a data-driven tool launched last year to boost transparency and trust in used vehicle transactions, says Chinese brands are accelerating in both sales and long-term value retention. 'Chinese brands have notably accelerated, with Jetour growing 150.4 per cent YoY, becoming the 4th most popular brand,' Fuchs told Gulf Business . 'Among newer entrants, the Jetour X70S STD stands out with 88 per cent retention after one year and 82 per cent by year three, reflecting growing trust in competitively priced Chinese SUVs.' In Q1 2025, used car buyer demand has centred around models from 2015–2020 , priced between Dhs10,000 and Dhs90,000 , with sedans like the Toyota Camry and SUVs like the Nissan Patrol remaining top search choices. However, there's growing attention on newer electric and hybrid models, especially as more Chinese EVs enter the resale market backed by generous warranties. Read: 'Electric vehicles have also surged, growing 62.2 per cent YoY in Q1 2025, with Tesla leading the segment at 43 per cent market share,' Fuchs noted. 'Consumer confidence is backed by extended warranties, particularly from Chinese brands, offering up to 7-year or 200,000 km warranties.' Auto lending rates in the UAE have become more attractive, aided by Q4 2024 rate cuts in the US. 'Financing has become more attractive, with auto lending rates decreasing approximately 0.5 per cent. Banks have intensified promotions like limited-time 0 per cent financing offers with mandatory 20 per cent down payments,' said Fuchs. This environment, combined with an influx of residents ( Dubai added over 51,000 people in Q1 2025 ) is pushing demand for affordable mobility options. 'The UAE used car market is expected to remain on a strong growth path, driven largely by population growth,' he said. On pricing and consumer behaviour, the UAE diverges from other GCC markets. 'In 2025, UAE GCC-spec vehicles averaged Dhs 180,000 with a model year around 2019, compared to KSA's average of SAR130,000 (Dhs127,252) for 2020 models,' said Fuchs. 'UAE buyers are more digitally driven, with 83 per cent starting their search online… while KSA buyers still favour traditional dealerships.' Looking ahead, Fuchs expects geopolitical trade policies to impact inventory flows. 'Recent global developments, such as new US tariffs, could lower used car prices in the UAE by increasing availability and competition among European and Chinese automakers,' he said. As trust in newer brands and digital platforms increases, AutoData's Vehicle Report platform is tapping into a more discerning and digitally savvy buyer base. 'This behavior indicates a growing segment of consumers who favour independent sellers and online platforms that offer more transparency and variety rather than the traditional franchise route,' Fuchs added.
The South African
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
'Smart woman!': Rachel Kolisi's new car sparks speculation
Rachel Kolisi's new car announcement – an 'upgrade' from her Yaris – has been met with speculation from many South Africans who questioned her motives. The former wife of Springbok captain Siya Kolisi revealed her new set of wheels this week courtesy of a brand deal with Chinese car manufacturer Jetour. Last month, the mother-of-two described driving the used car as a 'humbling' experience. Rachel and Siya announced their divorce last October and have been navigating life as single parents. On Friday, 20 June, Rachel Kolisi posted images on her Instagram account of her new car, a brand new SUV, courtesy of Jetour. The brand deal was made possible through Livingstone Sports Management, the same company her brother, sports agent Joel Smith, works for. Rachel previously had an endorsement deal with Mercedes-Benz, which sponsored luxury cars for both her and her former husband, Siya Kolisi. However, the deal likely ended shortly before Rachel announced her 'humbling' decision to drive a Toyota Yaris in an Instagram post she swiftly deleted. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rachel Kolisi (@rachelkolisi) With Rachel Kolisi bagging a new deal – with a sports agency no less, many are wondering if her 'Yaris' post was merely a ploy to attract sponsorship and public sympathy. Rachel Kolisi deleted an IG post about her modest car. Was it a ploy for 'public sympathy'? Images via Instagram: @rachelkolisi X user @camagumayeye_ posted: 'I'm starting to think the Yaris thing was a ploy to attract brands'. Another @XolieMahlangu added: 'She knew what she was doing. I love me a smart woman.' @TboozeSA posted: 'It was a clever move. Good business on her side', while @TakatsoLisbeth added: 'That Yaris was a paid actor'. Meanwhile, reports claim that Rachel Kolisi could be entitled to half of Siya's wealth amid their high-profile divorce. According to Pulse Sports, the former Springbok WAG could walk away with as much as R17.5 million – half of Siya's estimated net worth – in the settlement. The couple is believed to be married in community of property. Fans have taken sides in the Siya and Rachel Kolisi Foundation controversy. Images via Instagram: @rachelkolisi/ @siyakolisi In 2019, Rachel and Siya established their joint charity, The Kolisi Foundation. However, earlier this year, Rachel claimed that she was pressured to leave her post as CEO at the NGO. In a complaint filed with the CCMA, Rachel claimed 'constructive dismissal', alleging that her working conditions became 'intolerable', 'forcing' her to resign. She is seeking reinstatement or compensation for the distress caused by her resignation. Although Rachel's source of income is unclear, she and her two children, as well as Siya's two siblings, continue to live in their Cape Town home. Siya lives in a Ballito mansion in KwaZulu-Natal, where he plays for the Sharks. DO YOU BELIEVE RACHEL KOLISI DUPED THE PUBLIC WITH HER YARIS IG POST? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
21-06-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
From Betsy to Jetour: Rachel Kolisi's exciting new wheels
Rachel Kolisi is now a part of the Jetour family. Image: Instagram Rachel Kolisi has revealed her latest set of wheels, and it's a major upgrade. The mom of two announced on Friday night that she's now part of the Jetour South Africa family. Sharing a photo of herself with the vehicle, she wrote: 'Very excited and very grateful to be a part of the @jetour_south_africa family! Thank you @lmgsportsmanagement!' Jetour is a Chinese SUV brand that officially launched in South Africa in September 2024. The partnership marks an exciting new chapter for Rachel, who just weeks ago shared a humorous and heartfelt moment with her followers when she introduced her temporary car, a Toyota Yaris she nicknamed 'Betsy.' In a since-deleted Instagram post, she opened up about the experience of navigating life's ups and downs, saying: 'Life has a funny way of humbling you just when you think you've got it all figured out. One day you're riding high, the next you're asking a friend to borrow their spare car and googling 'how to parallel park a Yaris with dignity.'' In a now-deleted Instagram post she showed off her Yaris. Image: Instagram She added with her signature humour and optimism: 'It's not forever. It's just a chapter. But honestly? Betsy and I are kind of vibing, and I still nail clutch control.' In the past, Rachel has been spotted behind the wheel of luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz and Land Rover. But her recent transparency about driving an older-model Yaris resonated with many of her followers, who appreciated her honesty and humility. Now, as she climbs back into the driver's seat of a brand-new Jetour, Rachel is once again blending relatability with inspiration, showing that every chapter, whether humble or high-end, has its place. IOL Entertainment Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
The South African
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
No more Yaris! Rachel Kolisi reveals Chinese 'upgrade'
Barely a month after Rachel Kolisi claimed that she had traded her luxury vehicle for a Toyota Yaris, the former wife of Siya Kolisi shared a peek at her 'upgrade.' The ex-rugby WAG shocked her followers with the Instagram post, which she has since deleted. Rachel – who announced her split from Siya last October – has been navigating her new chapter as a single mom. In her latest Instagram post, Rachel Kolisi shared a look at her new ride, an SUV made by Chinese car manufacturer Jetour. 'Very excited and very grateful to be a part of the @jetour_south_africa family!' she shared of the brand partnership. The car deal has been sponsored by Livingstone Sports Management, the same company her brother Joel Smith works for. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rachel Kolisi (@rachelkolisi) In the comments section, many of her followers were happy to see her bounce back. @nosiphoarmstrong: 'And this, ladies and gentlemen, is how you turn lemons into lemonade! Speak out. Rise. Do you! The world will follow!' @missmay1644: 'No more Yaris 🤣🤣. Congratulations to you!' @lerato_wartbooi: 'Thank you for reminding us over and over again that God restores!'. In a since-deleted Instagram post last month, Rachel Kolisi introduced her followers to her Toyota Yaris, which she had affectionately named 'Betsy.' The older model was a far cry from the top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz she had driven just days before. The influencer and philanthropist captioned the post: 'Life has a funny way of humbling you just when you think you've got it all figured out. One day you're riding high, the next you're asking a friend to borrow their spare car and googling 'how to parallel park a Yaris with dignity.' Rachel Kolisi – the former wife of Siya Kolisi – deleted an IG post about her modest car. Images via Instagram: @rachelkolisi The mother-of-two added: 'It's not forever. It's just a chapter. But honestly? Betsy (the car) and I are kind of vibing, and I still nail clutch control.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
