Chery to Launch Two New SUV Models in the UK

Chery Automobile announced on July 8 that it will launch two new SUV models under the Chery brand in the UK in the coming weeks, joining a growing number of Chinese automakers competing for market share in one of Europe's most competitive automotive markets. While specific details about the two models have not been disclosed, Chery stated that they will be 'optimized for the UK market' and will be available at dealerships across the country. Gary Lan, who is responsible for Chery, Omoda, and Jaecoo brands in the UK, mentioned that Chery's entry into the UK market 'reflects our confidence in the British automotive industry and the appeal of Chery's automotive products to local consumers.' Chery launched its Omoda brand in the UK in August of last year, followed by the Jaecoo brand in January this year. Both brands have quickly become some of the fastest-growing in the UK market. Despite being on the market for less than a year, Omoda and Jaecoo have captured a combined 2% share of the new car market in the UK by June this year. According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Jaecoo has achieved cumulative sales of 8,399 units, while Omoda has registered 6,941 new cars, surpassing traditional brands such as Alfa Romeo (1,308 units), Fiat (6,136 units), Jaguar (1,725 units), and Subaru (1,261 units). Last year, Chery's global sales increased significantly by 38%, reaching 2.6 million vehicles, making it the twelfth largest automaker in the world. The UK is the largest electric vehicle market in Europe, and unlike the EU, it has not imposed tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, making it an important destination for Chinese EV companies. Chery's Chinese competitor, Geely, announced last week that it will launch its brand in the UK, with its electric SUV model EX5 set to debut in the fourth quarter of this year. Changan Automobile will also begin selling its electric SUV model Deepal S07 to UK consumers this year, with deliveries expected to start in September. BYD, Xpeng Motors, and SAIC's MG brand have also begun sales operations in the UK, while Leap Motor has entered the market through a joint venture with Stellantis, the world's fourth-largest automaker.