Chery will launch in Europe with new EXEED line of all-new models
Chery Automobile Co., Ltd, China’s leading vehicle exporter, is to start an all-new model line of passenger cars globally and plan to sell in Europe within the next few years under an all-new nameplate: EXEED. The EXEED nameplate consists of a matrix of SUV and cars supported by premium standard processes, high efficiency and intelligent technologies.
The first Chery model to go on sale across Europe, the EXEED TX, will be a compact SUV designed for young, urban, progressive-minded customers, and will meet the needs and expectations of European private and fleet buyers in terms of design, quality, dynamics, connectivity and safety.
The Chery EXEED TX is being revealed globally in pre-production form for the first time at the 2017 IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show.
The new model will exhibit an evolution of Chery’s progressive ‘Life in Motion’ design philosophy, which aims to appeal to young, urban, forward-thinking customers. It is based on signature ‘hydrodynamic surfacing’ characteristics, with a confident, purposeful stance and chrome-accented Chery brand face.
The all-new, high quality platform – specifically developed for the new model line and to accommodate electrified powertrains – and its technologies have been developed in partnership with the world’s leading suppliers.
Inside, the new compact SUV incorporates the very latest smart technology, with connected infotainment, intelligent navigation and a comprehensive suite of the very latest advanced driver safety systems.
“In just a few years we intend to start selling a family of vehicles in European markets across multiple segments, with power supplied by a range of electrified powertrains,” explains Chery CEO Dr. Anning Chen at Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. The company has indicated that it plans to sell a range of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
“Our brand will target open-minded, relatively younger customers in particular, with a product rollout strategy that focuses on quality, low- and zero-emissions powertrains, and emotional engagement with customers. All Chery vehicles that are intended to be sold in Europe will feature class-leading connectivity, be fun to drive, offer flexible and spacious interiors and will provide comprehensive personalisation, all of which are aligned with our high standards of product quality and aftersales support,” Dr. Anning Chen concludes.
Chery is evaluating the sales opportunity in key markets, ahead of setting up a European sales operation in co-operation with import and distribution partners. The new design and R&D facilities in Europe will accelerate Chery’s plan for global expansion.
Modern, progressive design
The EXEED TX showcases the design direction that will mark out all the SUV and crossover models arriving as part of Chery’s new model line for Europe. While they will wear a Chery badge, they incorporate a new evolution of the Chinese brand’s ‘Life In Motion’ design philosophy, developed by Chief Designer, James Hope.
The distinctive form of the all-new prototype compact SUV is an evolution of Chery’s brand style, a design that is conceived to appeal to the new generation of young, urban, forward-thinking customers who choose sophisticated, high quality products.
Many of the feature lines are inspired by nature and incorporate ‘hydrodynamic surfacing’ characteristics, which convey the pure, aesthetic quality of running water. The muscular and purposeful stance exudes confidence, with a sense of stability assured by the wide track and large, stylish wheels.
The progressive styling is also reflected in the car’s unique brand face. It features a sharp chrome horizontal brand bar, which is complemented by further chrome trim adorning the front bumper, side skirts and window surrounds. Full LED headlamps and a neat rear light cluster design complete the car’s dynamic aesthetic.
Interior design, quality and connectivity
In the cabin, sharp horizontal lines produce a sense of open spaciousness, while coloured LED lighting can be personalised to create the perfect ambience for occupants.
The car’s futuristic appeal is further augmented by the 10-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash that provides access to a range of infotainment, interior and driver settings and vehicle status information menus.
The new compact SUV incorporates the very latest smart technology. Seamless smartphone connectivity, voice recognition, built-in WiFi and Chery’s ‘E call’ emergency assistance service will be standard. A comprehensive suite of connected infotainment apps, including intelligent navigation with real-time traffic information, will be accessible through the large touchscreen display.
In addition, further high tech innovation is evidenced by the small touchscreen displays at the centre of the two ventilation rotary switches.
Reflecting the car’s environmental considerations, a unique LED strip beneath the dials changes between shades of blue and red, depending on the quality of air entering the cabin from outside.
Driver convenience is provided through a range of advanced aids, including keyless go, a 360-degree round-view camera, smart opening trunk and park assist technologies. Premium interior comfort is assured by luxury heated seats, panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, and auto-change ambient lighting.
The car can be personalised for regular drivers, with the ambient lighting, infotainment settings and driver seat positions memorised for each.
Advanced electrified powertrains
The EXEED TX will be made available in Europe with three highly efficient electrified powertrains: a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or battery electric vehicle (BEV).
The first configuration to go on sale will be an ultra-low emission PHEV variant. This model will intelligently combine a 110 kW 1.5-litre gasoline combustion engine with a 85 kW electric motor, powering the EXEED TX via an intelligent all-wheel-drive system through a seven-speed hybrid drive transmission.
With the combined power of the combustion engine and e-motor, the compact SUV will reach 100km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h and fuel consumption of 1.8L/100km (NEDC).
The EXEED TX will be able to travel up to 120 km/h for up to 70 km in pure electric mode with power supplied by the NCM Lithium battery.
The battery will fast-charge to 80% in 30 minutes and reach full charge from a 220 V household supply in just four hours.
World-class engineering partnerships
Chery’s all-new model line is being engineered to the highest European benchmarks. It is partnering with the world’s best suppliers and is incorporating a brutally rigorous international development programme for the compact SUV that will lead the brand’s entry into the European market in the coming years.
Ray Briezinski, Executive Vice President of Product Development, Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. said: “Europe is one of the most mature automotive marketplaces in the world, and is home to the most demanding and sophisticated customers. We are leaving nothing to chance to ensure our new model line is engineered to meet and even exceed expectations. Our entire development programme is driven by the philosophy to ensure we leave a very positive and compelling first impression.”
Chery has selected the global leaders in each of the crucial vehicle platform and technology systems to ensure its range of new cars for Europe exhibit the highest quality standards.
The advanced, high quality platform – codenamed ‘M3X’ – developed from scratch specifically for the new model line and to accommodate electrified powertrains, was designed and engineered in conjunction with Germany’s Benteler. The EXEED TX is the first model to benefit from the new platform.
A rewarding driving experience is assured from a sophisticated suspension set up, with MacPherson struts at the front, and multi-link system at the rear. The dynamic engineering team tuned the chassis to provide the driver with direct response, excellent feel and predictable, reassuring handling.
The all-wheel-drive system has been co-engineered with Dana and BorgWarner to provide a secure, sure-footed traction, while the six-speed manual and seven speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions have been supplied and integrated with Getrag. Valeo is supplying various technologies such as the clutch and advanced driver assist systems.
Bosch is supplying the 10-inch TFT head unit and 7-inch TFT cluster display, further enhancing the HMI interface and connectivity features. The German engineering company is also responsible for various safety and engine management components.
The unique LED head lamp and rear lamp units have been developed by Hella, one of the most experienced suppliers of lighting and electronics products in the world.
Continental Automotive is providing world class Body Control Module (BCM) and Gateway applications to support the vehicle’s sophisticated electronic architecture. The industry-leading solution drives the car’s connectivity features, security and convenience controls. Continental also supplies the tyres for the 19-inch wheels.
Extreme weather testing in hot and cold climates – undertaken in conjunction with its supplier partners – is already in progress. In addition, the new compact SUV has undergone thorough testing at high speeds to ensure its performance capabilities on Europe’s highways.
Comprehensive active and passive safety
A comprehensive range of advanced driver assistance systems provide the highest levels of safety, backed by a ChinaNCAP 5-star rating.
Collision protection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning and speed limiter technologies are supplemented by an advanced driver fatigue detection system that monitors driver responsiveness and takes action as required.
These are complemented by front, side, rear side and curtain airbags.
Chery range highlights global strategy
In addition to EXEED TX, further Chery production models and concepts are also on display at the Frankfurt Motor Show. While the other vehicles are not destined to be sold in Europe, they clearly demonstrate to European customers the progression of the Chinese brand’s ‘Life In Motion’ design philosophy and its commitment to delivering high quality products.
The Tiggo Coupé Concept SUV is at the forefront of Chery’s future-oriented brand vision. The SUV crossover features a coupe-like design that sits on a new modular architecture and incorporates advanced technology, including a multifunctional interactive steering wheel that can be folded and used as a game controller to play video games in autonomous driving mode.
Reflecting Chery’s focus on developing advanced alternative-fuel powertrains the Tiggo Coupé Concept uses a 120 kW E-motor combined with a Lithium-Ion battery pack. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in seven seconds, has a maximum speed of more than 200 km/h and delivers a driving range of up to 500 km.
The Tiggo Coupé Concept features an innovative and highly efficient battery charging system, with inductive charging also available. The battery can be fast-charged to 80% of its capacity in just 20 minutes, while a full charge takes only two hours.
Also appearing on the stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show are two of Chery’s latest models for non-European markets – the Chery TIGGO 5x and TIGGO 7 models. The compact SUVs are the result of Chery’s continued growth into new segments under the Chinese brand’s globalization strategy.
The TIGGO 5x is the most recent TIGGO model and, as with the EXEED TX, features Chery’s new progressive ‘Life In Motion’ design language. The hydrodynamic lines of the TIGGO 7 are inspired by the international award-winning design of the TX Concept.
In addition to the futuristic and forward-looking design, both the TIGGO 5x and TIGGO 7 models also offer a dynamic yet simple interior. As is the hallmark of all new Chery models, occupants also benefit from smart connectivity and convenience features, and the highest levels of intelligent safety protection.
The TIGGO 7 is Chery’s new generation flagship model and is the first to be built on its T1X platform. The modularized platform will enable Chery to launch a range of hybrid vehicles, MPVs, medium- and large-sized SUVs and other T1X-based products in the global market.
As a pioneer of the brand’s current SUV line-up, TIGGO models have won great popularity in many markets – more than one million cars wearing the TIGGO nameplate have been sold to over 80 countries and regions around the world.
China’s most successful vehicle exporter
What was started in a small garage 20 years ago, has been developed by visionary Chery group chairman, Mr. Tongyue Yin, into a strong, well-respected, fast-growing global carmaker. Chery is the most successful exporter of vehicles in China. It has sold over 1.2 million units overseas since it was founded – more than any other Chinese carmaker – and it is also the first Chinese manufacturer to pass total sales of more than six million vehicles. It has held the status of China’s leading vehicle exporter for 14 consecutive years.
In 2016, Chery (Group) sold over 700,000 units, a year-on-year rise of 28%. Of this number, approximately 100,000 vehicles were exported – representing almost 30% of all Chinese vehicle exports.
Chery has the production capability to fulfil its ambitions in Europe. It has four manufacturing sites in China with a capacity to produce over 1 million vehicles, approximately 1 million engines and around 600,000 transmissions. Outside its domestic market, Chery has 10 production facilities and nearly 1,200 sales and service outlets, compared to over 500 in China.
All aspects of product design, development and testing is undertaken in-house and the new platform has been engineered with a focus on maintaining very high standards of product quality to underpin an increasingly international sales strategy. By the end of 2016, Chery had secured over 9,000 patents for its technology, placing it ahead of all domestic automotive sector rivals.
The new Chery R&D operation to be created in Europe will be in addition to its existing R&D facilities in Wuhu, Beijing, and Shanghai in China. Over the last five years Chery has invested nearly 2 billion Yuan in a new 300,000m2 Test & Technical Centre in China which houses eight laboratories evaluating parts and components; emissions and efficiency; management of vehicle noise, vibration and harshness; passive safety; and materials.
Global expansion
Chery is evaluating the sales opportunity in key markets for future SUV and Crossover models, and is planning new design and R&D facilities in Europe that will accelerate the brand’s plans for global expansion.
Chery is the most successful exporter of vehicles in China. It has sold over 1.2 million units overseas since it was founded in 1997 – more than any other Chinese carmaker – and it is also the first Chinese manufacturer to pass total sales of more than six million vehicles. It has held the status of China’s leading vehicle exporter for 14 consecutive years.
In 2016, Chery (Group) sold over 700,000 units, a year-on-year rise of 28%. Of this number, approximately 100,000 vehicles were exported – representing almost 30% of all Chinese vehicle exports.