Chery to Launch Electric iCar Brand in South Africa in 2026, Introducing iCar 03 and iCar V23 Models

Chery, one of China’s leading vehicle manufacturers, has set its sights on South Africa’s electric vehicle (EV) market. In early 2026, the company will officially launch its electric sub-brand, iCar, in South Africa, offering two all-new electric models—the iCar 03 and iCar V23. This marks a significant expansion of the Chinese automaker’s footprint in the local market, following its return to South Africa in 2021 after a ten-year absence.

iCar 03 and iCar V23: Introducing the Future of Electric Mobility

At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Chery revealed its plan to roll out iCar models across 100 countries, with South Africa being a key destination. The iCar lineup will include the iCar 03, a compact crossover designed for urban dwellers, and the iCar V23, a slightly larger SUV aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. Both models will offer fully-electric (EV) and range-extender electric (REEV) options, the latter being similar to plug-in hybrids but prioritizing electric-only driving.

iCar 03 Features

The iCar 03 will come with multiple powertrain options, including a single-motor variant with a 137kW output, and a dual-motor version with a combined 208kW. Its battery capacities will range from 51kWh to 70kWh, offering a claimed range of up to 501km on a single charge. This makes the iCar 03 a versatile option for urban drivers seeking both performance and efficiency.

iCar V23 Features

The iCar V23 will cater to a broader range of drivers, featuring battery capacities from 47kWh to 82kWh. The entry-level rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models will deliver 100kW peak output, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) dual-motor variant offers a robust 292kW and 455Nm torque. The V23 is capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, making it a powerful and thrilling choice for those who love adventure.

Chery’s Resurgence in South Africa: A Strong Market Player

Chery’s return to South Africa has been marked by remarkable growth. Since its re-entry into the local market in 2021, Chery has grown from a newcomer to the eighth best-selling brand in South Africa, with over 20,000 units sold by 2024. The brand’s most popular model, the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, was a standout success, ranking as the sixth best-selling new car in South Africa in 2024.

With its growing presence in South Africa, Chery is poised to take on even greater challenges as it introduces its EV sub-brand, iCar, which is set to shake up the competitive landscape of electric vehicles in the region.

Chery’s Strategic Move: Avoiding Legal Clashes Over the iCar Name

Originally, Chery had planned to release the iCar 03 under the Jaecoo brand in South Africa. However, after considering the potential confusion with Apple’s “i” branded products (such as the iPhone and iPad), the company opted to keep the iCar brand distinct. This decision was made after concerns that the “iCar” name could conflict with Apple’s trademarked devices.

Chery’s application for the “iCar” trademark in South Africa is still pending, with only minor conflicts over the term being registered under different categories. Notably, Apple has not registered the iCar name in South Africa for vehicles, which gives Chery some leeway to proceed with its plans.

What’s Next for the South African EV Market?

Chery’s iCar models will become the fifth brand from the Chery Group to be launched in South Africa, joining the existing Chery, Omoda, Jaecoo, and Jetour brands. As the EV market in South Africa grows, iCar’s entry represents a bold step into the future of electric mobility. The arrival of these new models will likely fuel further competition among established brands like BYD, as well as stimulate more widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the country.

In conclusion, Chery’s iCar launch is an exciting development for the South African automotive industry. With its impressive EV offerings and innovative approach to market expansion, iCar is set to become a significant player in South Africa’s electric vehicle landscape.

{Source: My Broad Band}

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