Category: Chery News

Will Chery Build Cars In South Africa? What A Mzansi Factory Could Mean For You

In recent months, South African motoring headlines have been buzzing with one big question, namely, will Chery build cars in South Africa? Reports suggest that the Chinese carmaker is actively exploring the possibility of establishing a local vehicle assembly plant, with feasibility studies and discussions already underway.

On the surface, this sounds like industry news best left to analysts and executives. In reality, it matters to everyday car buyers far more than you might think. Local manufacturing can influence everything from pricing and parts availability to long-term brand confidence and job creation.

At the same time, there is a lot of noise, speculation, and half-answers circulating online. This article aims to unpack what is actually happening, what a potential Chery factory in South Africa could mean for ordinary motorists, and why you do not need to put your buying plans on hold while the bigger picture unfolds.

Along the way, we will also explain where Group1 Chery fits into this evolving story.

What’s Actually Happening With Chery And A South African Factory?

The short answer is that Chery is exploring its options, but no final decision has been made.

Public reports confirm that Chery is conducting feasibility studies around local vehicle assembly in South Africa. These studies look at a range of factors, including costs, logistics, government incentives, and long-term market demand. Chery has also indicated that it is considering different approaches, such as building a new facility from scratch or taking over an existing plant.

What is important to understand is what has not been confirmed. There is currently no official announcement on a factory location, no construction timeline, and no confirmed production start date. In other words, this is still an evaluation phase, not a signed deal.

That said, exploring local manufacturing at this level is not something brands do casually. It is widely seen as a strong signal that Chery views South Africa as a strategic, long-term market rather than a short-term sales opportunity.

Why South Africa And Why Now?

South Africa has long been a key automotive manufacturing hub on the African continent. Global brands produce vehicles locally for both domestic sale and export, supported by established supply chains, skilled labour, and government policy aimed at strengthening the sector.

In recent years, the South African government has placed additional emphasis on attracting investment linked to new energy vehicles, including hybrids and other electrified models. Incentives have been announced to encourage local production of these vehicles and their components, which aligns closely with Chery’s global direction.

Timing also matters. Chery’s sales growth in South Africa has been strong, with the brand recording some of its best monthly results in late 2025 and firmly establishing itself among the country’s top-selling passenger car brands. This growth indicates real consumer confidence, not just curiosity.

Globally, Chery is also pushing hard into new energy vehicles and hybrid technology. The brand has been expanding its NEV line-up and has announced plans to roll out multiple hybrid models across various markets. South Africa forms part of this broader strategy, which helps explain why local manufacturing is being considered now rather than later.

Seen together, these factors make a potential Chery plant in South Africa feel like a logical next step, even if it is not yet guaranteed.

ALSO SEE: Chery Super Hybrid Tech Is Changing The Game & We’re Here For It

What Does A Local Assembly Plant Actually Mean?

When people hear “local manufacturing”, it is easy to imagine entire vehicles being built from raw materials on South African soil. In practice, local assembly usually works a little differently.

Many vehicles sold in South Africa today are fully imported, often referred to as CBU or completely built-up units. Locally assembled vehicles typically arrive in partially assembled form, with final assembly, testing, and quality checks completed at a local plant. This is sometimes described as CKD or SKD assembly, although the technical details vary by manufacturer.

For buyers, the key point is not the technical process, but the potential knock-on effects. Local assembly can help manufacturers manage import duties and logistics more effectively, which could support more stable pricing over time. It may also allow brands to tailor specifications more closely to local preferences and conditions.

Another possible benefit is supply stability. Locally assembled models can be less exposed to global shipping delays, which may improve availability for certain vehicles in the long run.

It is important to stress that these are potential outcomes, not promises. Pricing, model availability, and specifications depend on many factors, including government policy and final investment decisions.

How A Chery Factory Could Benefit South African Motorists

If a Chery assembly plant does move ahead, the potential benefits extend beyond the factory gates.

From a pricing and value perspective, local assembly can give manufacturers more flexibility in how they structure costs. Over time, this may help Chery maintain competitive pricing and generous specification levels, which have already become hallmarks of the brand.

There is also the broader economic picture. A new vehicle plant could create direct jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and quality control, along with indirect jobs across suppliers and support industries. This matters in a country where automotive manufacturing plays a significant role in employment.

After-sales support is another area where local manufacturing can make a difference. Brands with a strong local footprint often invest more heavily in parts warehousing, technical training, and supply chain resilience. For owners, this can translate into improved parts availability and faster turnaround times.

Perhaps most importantly for cautious buyers, a factory represents a long-term commitment. It signals that a brand intends to be present, competitive, and invested for many years, which can help ease concerns around ownership support and resale value.

Again, these benefits are possible rather than guaranteed, but they explain why the conversation matters.

LEARN MORE: Chery Launches Cherished: The Ultimate Pre-Owned Vehicle Programme In South Africa

Do You Need To Wait To Buy A Chery?

For many shoppers, this is the most practical question of all.

The short answer is no, you do not need to wait. While local manufacturing is being explored, Chery is already operating at scale in South Africa. The brand is selling in strong volumes, expanding its dealer network, and investing in after-sales infrastructure nationwide.

Current Chery models are fully supported by comprehensive warranties and established service networks. Parts supply is already in place and continues to improve as the brand grows. Buying a Chery today does not mean taking a leap of faith into the unknown.

In fact, many buyers are choosing Chery now because of the value proposition on offer. Competitive pricing, high levels of standard equipment, and attractive finance options through trusted dealers like Group1 Chery make ownership accessible without compromise.

Waiting for a factory that may still be several years away is not necessary if a Chery fits your needs today. If and when local assembly happens, existing owners are unlikely to be left behind.

Where Group1 Chery Fits Into The Picture

While factories and policy decisions make headlines, buying a car remains a human experience. This is where Group1 Chery plays a central role.

Group1 Chery operates dealerships in Kuils River, Stellenbosch, Knysna, George, Mossel Bay, and Lephalale, serving customers across the Western Cape and Limpopo. These teams are on the ground, working with customers every day, and staying informed about industry developments as they unfold.

Beyond selling vehicles, Group1 Chery offers practical support, including trade-in assistance, finance guidance, genuine parts, and servicing by trained technicians. Whether you are considering a new or pre-owned Chery, you are dealing with people who understand both the vehicles and the broader market context.

Whatever happens with local manufacturing in the years ahead, Group1 Chery remains your partner now and into the future.

Looking Ahead With Confidence

The idea of a Chery factory in South Africa speaks to something bigger than bricks and mortar. It reflects growing confidence in the local market and a brand that appears serious about long-term participation.

If you would like to learn more about Chery’s plans, or if you want to experience the Tiggo range for yourself, contact your nearest Group1 Chery dealership. You can explore available models, book a test drive, or simply have an informed conversation about what makes sense for you, now and in the future.

FAQs

Is Chery definitely building a factory in South Africa?

No. Chery has confirmed that it is exploring the idea and conducting feasibility studies, but no final decision has been announced.

When could a Chery plant in South Africa open?

There is no confirmed timeline. Any potential plant would depend on final approvals, investment decisions, and government policy.

Will a local Chery factory make cars cheaper?

Local assembly could help manage costs over time, but lower prices are not guaranteed. Many factors influence vehicle pricing.

How would local manufacturing affect parts and servicing?

Local production often supports stronger parts supply and technical capacity, which can benefit owners, but Chery already has established aftersales support in place.

Should I wait for the factory before buying a Chery?

For most buyers, there is no need to wait. Chery vehicles are already well supported, and many customers are buying with confidence today.

The post Will Chery Build Cars In South Africa? What A Mzansi Factory Could Mean For You appeared first on Group1 Chery.

The Rise Of Chinese Cars In SA And What It Means For Buyers/ Market

A few years ago, few South Africans would’ve guessed that Chinese cars would become serious contenders in local showrooms. Yet here we are, and the numbers speak for themselves. Chinese brands now account for 11.8% of South Africa’s new vehicle market, up from just 2.8% in 2020.

A few years ago, few South Africans would’ve guessed that Chinese cars would become serious contenders in local showrooms. Yet here we are, and the numbers speak for themselves. Chinese brands now account for 11.8% of South Africa’s new vehicle market, up from just 2.8% in 2020.

Let’s take a look at the insights provided by Naamsa (National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa). Chery, in particular, has made waves, topping first-quarter 2025 sales with 5,739 new vehicles sold in South Africa, narrowly edging past GWM’s 5,535 units. On the model level, Chery’s Tiggo 4 Pro sold 3,371 units in that quarter and ranked 6th overall in passenger cars. It has been a notable reversal of fortunes for Chery, considering it withdrew from the South African market in 2018 after its initial entry struggled to gain traction.

Since then, Chery has reinvented itself globally, earning recognition for quality and design. Its models have won numerous awards in markets such as Brazil, Egypt, and Indonesia, where the brand is experiencing strong sales, a testament to its progress since those early challenges.

Other players, such as OMODA, JAECOO, Foton, BAIC, and JAC, have also contributed to the accelerated footprint of Chinese brands. The question on many lips is: how did these brands get here, and what does the future hold?

Drivers Behind The Rise

Why are Chinese brands climbing so steadily in South Africa? A few interlinked factors help explain the trend.

Value proposition: Industry experts point out that pricing has been a major driver behind the growing popularity of Chinese cars. Brands such as Chery have positioned themselves as strong value-for-money choices, offering more features at prices often lower than those of their European and Japanese counterparts.

Technological catch-up and product strategy: The latest Chinese models aren’t what they once were. They come with strong design, infotainment systems, driver assistance features, and hybrid options.

SUV Appeal: Both globally and locally, the demand for SUVs shows no sign of slowing down. Chinese automakers have tapped into this trend by offering a wide range of models, from compact city crossovers to spacious family SUVs that match the preferences of South African buyers.

Distribution and network expansion: Increased dealer networks, improved service and stronger warranties are helping build trust. Chery and Chinese players are working to close the gap on legacy brands.

Local alignment & production considerations: Local assembly (or the intention thereof) is a big deal. It has been confirmed that South Africa is engaging Chinese manufacturers to produce vehicles locally. In fact, China’s Chery is exploring plant-sharing opportunities, whether through partnerships with existing facilities, joint ventures, or even setting up a new greenfield plant to assemble vehicles locally.

Market receptivity: South Africans are increasingly open to non-traditional brands. Younger buyers, in particular, are less tied to heritage brands and more interested in tech, value and design.

What This Means For The South African Car Market

The surging wave of Chinese automotive progress is shaking up the legacy players. With Chinese imports growing and assembly plants imminent, established brands face pressure on multiple fronts. They are compelled to innovate faster, offer more competitive pricing, and improve their value propositions to retain market share amid the influx of competitively priced alternatives with appealing specs.

Ultimately, consumers stand to benefit from more choices, better technology, and more affordable vehicles. Compared to a decade ago, the market offers significantly more value per rand.

Final Thoughts

The rise of Chinese automotive brands in Mzansi is undeniable. For brands such as Chery, it’s more than just good fortune. It has more to do with strategy, product relevance and brand execution. As Chinese makers continue building trust, expanding networks and localising production, their relevance for South African drivers will only grow.

For buyers, especially those focused on value, tech and long-term ownership, the market is opening up in interesting ways. And for traditional brands, the challenge here is to either evolve or risk losing ground.

Group1 Chery is proud to be part of this exciting new era. Explore our full range of Chery SUVs and crossovers, take a test drive, and experience first-hand why more South Africans are choosing Chery every day.

The post The Rise Of Chinese Cars In SA And What It Means For Buyers/ Market appeared first on Group1 Chery.

Chery Retains ”The Best Chinese Brand” Title In 2025 J.D. Power Report

Chery has done it once more. For the second consecutive year, Chery Group has been crowned “The Best Chinese Brand” in the 2025 J.D. Power China APEAL Study. Far more than a headline, this recognition speaks volumes about the brand’s growing global influence. Scoring an impressive 760 points, Chery not only maintained its position as the top independent Chinese brand but also secured second place in the mainstream vehicle market, trailing only behind the heavyweight FAW-Volkswagen.

Why Does The J.D. Power APEAL Study Matter For Chery?

J.D. Power is widely regarded as the global authority on vehicle quality and ownership satisfaction. Its surveys gather direct feedback from car owners across dozens of markets, providing unmatched insights into the real-world customer experience.

For the 2025 APEAL study, more than 20,000 new car owners who had driven their vehicles for 2 to 6 months were surveyed. The study evaluated every stage of the purchase and service journey, from dealership experience to product appeal and day-to-day ownership satisfaction.

Two of Chery’s most popular SUVs stood out this year:

• Chery Tiggo 7 Plus: Climbed from last year’s runner-up to champion with 795 points, winning the Mid-size Economy SUV category.
• Chery Tiggo 8 Plus: Retained its crown with 796 points in the Mid-size SUV segment.

This success builds on Chery’s exceptional performance in 2024, when it became the only independent automotive manufacturer to achieve a rare “triple crown” in J.D. Power’s three most prestigious studies: IQS (Initial Quality Study), SSI (Service Satisfaction Index), and APEAL (Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout). Chery’s consistent leadership in these key industry metrics highlights the brand’s significant investments in quality, innovation, and tailored solutions suited to diverse markets.

Chery’s J.D. Power Highlights

Record-Breaking Market Performance

Chery’s momentum is equally evident in its sales performance. From January to July 2025, the Group recorded a historic 1,484,563 vehicles sold, representing a 14.5% year-on-year increase. Of this, exports accounted for 669,360 units, cementing Chery’s role as one of the strongest Chinese automotive exporters.

Chery’s new energy vehicle (NEV) sales surged by an impressive 87.7% year-on-year, reaching 424,737 units, positioning the brand among the fastest-growing in the global industry. The company’s global customer base has now surpassed 17.18 million, including over 5.17 million overseas owners.

Locally, Chery has also earned acclaim. At the Top Gear South Africa 2024 Awards, the Tiggo 4 Pro DCT was crowned Most Improved Car of the Year, a recognition that resonates strongly with South African drivers who continue to embrace Chery as a reasonably-priced, reliable, and stylish choice. Naamsa figures (2025) show Chery hit a record 2,228 sales in August, topping July’s 2,160 and marking the third time this year it’s passed 2,000 units.

Powering Ahead With Innovation

Behind the strong sales and glowing reviews lies Chery’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. At the core of this vision is the brand’s own Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) system, a breakthrough platform that brings together:

• High-efficiency hybrid engines are designed to stretch every drop of fuel further.
• Intelligent electric drive systems that deliver smooth, responsive performance.
• Advanced battery technology built for durability and range.
• Smart, intuitive interfaces that keep drivers seamlessly connected.

This spirit of innovation runs through the entire Tiggo family, from the compact and city-friendly Tiggo 4 Pro and the crossover-inspired Tiggo Cross, to the stylish Tiggo 7 Pro, to the commanding Tiggo 8 Pro range. And with the arrival of the Tiggo 9, Chery has introduced a new flagship SUV that combines bold design, cutting-edge technology, and family-sized comfort, further proof that the brand is shaping the future of mobility, one model at a time.

A Future Built On Technology, Localisation And Sustainability

As competition in the global auto industry grows fiercer, Chery’s approach is clear: innovate relentlessly, listen closely to customers, and build sustainably for the long term. By investing heavily in next-generation EVs, hybrid systems, and intelligent mobility solutions, the Group is preparing for the demands of tomorrow’s automotive market.

The best way to understand why Chery is winning worldwide recognition? Experience it yourself. Visit a Group1 Chery showroom near you or book a test drive to see what sets these award-winning vehicles apart.

The post Chery Retains ”The Best Chinese Brand” Title In 2025 J.D. Power Report appeared first on Group1 Chery.