Chinese automaker Chery has made an announcement about its new premium sub-brands, the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 hybrid SUV models, putting them in direct competition with South Africa’s electric car industry. The launch, which is set to take place in Johannesburg in early June 2025, represents another major turning point in the regional automotive landscape with both consumers and manufacturers shifting their focus towards increasingly connected transport solutions.
China’s auto-tech export strategy and Africa’s growing interest in low-emission vehicles are both evident in Chery’ upcoming hybrid offerings, which is more than just a product launch.
Specs and Pricing: Designed for Urban and Long-Range Comfort
The Omoda C9, Chery’s premium plug-in hybrid SUV with a 34.5 kWh battery, is priced at R999,000 (around $53,000). Its full-electric range of up to 150 km is enough for everyday driving in urban areas. By utilizing a petrol-powered range extender, the SUV can cover roughly 1,100 km, making it ideal for longer intercity journeys.
Alternatively, the Jaecoo J7 with its “Super Hybrid” system is available at a more reasonable price point of R689,900. It may be technically not entirely electric, but offers much higher mileage and far less carbon emissions than conventional combustion engines.
They both have AI-powered cockpit systems, smart connectivity and advanced driver assistance, positioning them well in South Africa’s tech-forward automotive segment.
Why South Africa? A Strategic Launchpad for Africa.
It’s not a coincidence that Chery launched these hybrid models in South Africa first. South Africa’s automotive industry is the largest in Africa, thanks to the urban middle-class’ demand for environmentally friendly vehicles and a strong brand loyalty to SUV-type models.
Hans Greyling, the General Manager of Omoda & Jaecoo South Africa, stated in an interview with Reuters that hybrid vehicles are experiencing unprecedented levels of customer interest. While full EV infrastructure is still problematic in the region, plug-in hybrids can provide a viable alternative, especially for African cities that face power outages and frequent charging station gaps.
The Bigger Picture: A Gateway to Africa’s EV Transformation?
With this launch, Chery is one of many automakers hoping to make their mark on Africa’s budding EV and hybrid market. Despite not matching the level of adoption seen in Europe and Asia, the potential for electric vehicle use on the continent is enormous.
African nations, grappling with inadequate energy infrastructure but eager to reduce fuel imports and carbon footprints, can use hybrid vehicles like the C9 for a start.
In this context, Chery’s proposal seems logical, to provide advanced, high-tech automobiles without entirely relying on an undeveloped public EV charging system.
What’s Next for Chery in Africa?
Chery is expanding its reach in Africa. Its sales have continued to rise steadily since it returned to the South African market in 2021. A more premium edge was achieved with the introduction of the Omoda and Jaecoo sub-brands in 2023.
The Jaecoo J5 is scheduled to be released later in 2025, and the Omoda C7 will follow shortly after, as stated by Greyling. Chery’s efforts to introduce electrified vehicles in African markets are likely to result in the sale of both models as PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles).
A Step Forward in Africa’s Sustainable Mobility Journey
The world’s Low-Emission Mobility movement is slowly encompassing South Africa and the wider continent. The possibility of a more sustainable transport era is high as companies like Chery are creating hybrid vehicles to be sold locally.
The focus is not solely on cars, but also on establishing the foundation for sustainable transportation through collaboration with local governments, infrastructure providers, and energy companies. Until then, hybrids like the Omoda C9 and Jaecoo J7 may offer the best possible compromise between performance, price, and practicality.
