In a moment when Canada is grappling with rising tariff surtaxes on electric vehicles and the need for more competitive, world-class automotive options, the spotlight is shifting toward global players who are redefining the industry. Similar to Europe, the Canadian market needs access to innovative products that reflect the evolving needs of drivers—products that could be facilitated by removing unnecessary trade barriers. One brand leading that charge globally is Chery.
They’re not in Canada — yet. But if you follow the global auto industry, you’ve likely heard the name Chery. The Chinese automaker has quietly become one of the most innovative and fastest-growing car manufacturers in the world, and as the automotive sector undergoes a seismic shift toward electrification and intelligent mobility, Chery’s various products are worth watching — and eventually, driving.
Founded in 1997, Chery has built its reputation on a simple but powerful formula: exceptional engineering, bold design, and relentless innovation. With over 16.9 million global users across 120 countries and regions, including more than 5 million overseas customers, Chery is no longer just a domestic success story; it’s a global contender. In 2024, the company sold over 2.6 million vehicles worldwide, including 1.14 million exports, marking a 21.4 percent increase and securing its place as China’s top passenger car exporter for the 22nd consecutive year.
But Chery’s real story lies under the hood — and behind the scenes.
With more than two decades of hybrid expertise, Chery is redefining what it means to build a modern car. Its PHEV Super Hybrid Technology blends the best of electric and internal combustion engineering, offering long range, high performance, and exceptional safety. For drivers, this means a vehicle that’s powerful, efficient, and adaptable — whether you’re commuting downtown, heading out on a road trip, or exploring the backcountry.
At the recent Auto Shanghai 2025, Chery unveiled two new hybrid platforms — SHS and CSH — designed to meet the diverse needs of global drivers. These systems are engineered to deliver seamless performance across different terrains and climates, from urban streets to desert highways. The result is a driving experience that’s not only smooth and responsive, but also environmentally responsible.
And the numbers back it up. Chery’s 1.5TGDI turbocharged engine boasts a thermal efficiency of 44.5 percent, paired with hybrid transmission systems that deliver up to 280kW of power and motor speeds reaching 24,000rpm. Charging from 30 percent to 80 percent takes just 20 minutes, and the latest hybrid-dedicated engine is expected to reach a world-leading thermal efficiency of 48 percent. These aren’t just specs — they’re signals of a company operating at the cutting edge of automotive technology.
Chery’s commitment to innovation goes beyond performance. Its AiMOGA initiative — a fusion of artificial intelligence and robotics — aims to transform how drivers interact with their vehicles. Inspired by ancient Chinese craftsmanship and modern mechatronics, AiMOGA represents Chery’s vision of a smarter, more intuitive driving future.
Through its current technological development, Chery boosts global sales through brand collaborations and joins forces with UNICEF and the IUCN to advance low-carbon and green development within local communities. Leveraging forward-looking technological capabilities to create intelligent high-tech solutions, the company continues to expand its global footprint with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
ABOVE: The interior of the 2025 TIGGO 8 Pro SUV that launched with a price range of 119,900 – 153,900 yuan (16,900 – 21,700 USD).
What sets Chery apart is its ability to combine technical mastery with real-world practicality. Its lineup — from the versatile TIGGO SUV to the design-forward OMODA & JAECOO models — reflects a growing emphasis on safety, adaptability, and intelligent mobility. These vehicles are engineered to meet the needs of modern drivers, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and connectivity that’s increasingly in demand across global markets.
According to Chery’s global leadership, the company’s international strategy is rooted in delivering high-quality, future-ready vehicles that align with local market needs. “We believe intelligent hybrid technology is the bridge to a more sustainable future,” said a Chery R&D spokesperson. “Our goal is to make advanced mobility accessible to more people, in more places.”
While Chery vehicles aren’t yet available in Canada, their global momentum suggests it’s only a matter of time. As Canadian consumers become more open to new energy vehicles and demand more sustainable, high-performance options, Chery’s lineup could offer a compelling alternative to traditional brands — bringing with it a new standard of quality, innovation, and driving pleasure.
Header image: The 2025 TIGGO 8 Pro SUV
