Chery, the renowned Chinese car maker, is set to introduce its electrified off-road brand, iCar, to the UK market next year as part of its global expansion strategy. However, to avoid any trademark conflicts with Apple’s iCar, the brand will be renamed as iCaur for models sold outside of China.
One of the highlights of the iCar lineup is the V23 small electric SUV, which was first launched in China last year. The top-end models of the V23 feature a four-wheel-drive system powered by twin electric motors, delivering an impressive 208bhp. These models are equipped with an 82kWh NMC battery, providing a range of 311 miles on a single charge.
Following the success of the V23, Chery plans to introduce the larger V25 SUV by the end of next year. The V25 will utilize a range-extender EV drivetrain, incorporating a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine. In addition, consumers can look forward to the release of the V21 small electric SUV in 2027, aimed at competing with the likes of the Jeep Avenger. Furthermore, a larger model, the V29, is also in the pipeline, although its availability in the UK market has yet to be confirmed.
Chery’s CEO, Su Jun, announced plans to establish 2000 showrooms in 100 countries within the next three years, as part of the company’s broader export initiatives. Chery has already made a mark in the UK market with its Omoda and Jaecoo brands, which collectively recorded 6430 sales in the first quarter of this year, surpassing the sales of Suzuki, Jeep, and Fiat. The company is set to introduce a new brand, Lepas, to compete with Dacia in the near future.
Initially conceived as a smart EV brand in 2023, iCar had planned to offer a range of body types, including sports cars and people carriers. However, the brand has since pivoted its focus towards producing rugged off-road vehicles.
With a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, Chery’s iCar brand is poised to make a significant impact in the UK market, offering consumers a diverse range of electrified off-road vehicles to choose from.
