
Chery Hits 5 Million Export Milestone And Drives Global Ambitions
Chery has just clocked a historic win, and we couldn’t be prouder to share the news. The Chinese automaker is officially the first in its country to export over 5 million vehicles, marking a major milestone that speaks to much more than sales stats.
For South African drivers, this moment matters. It’s a sign that the brand you’ve seen growing rapidly on our roads is not a fly-by-night name but a fast-evolving global player, trusted across continents.
So, why does this number mean something to you? Let’s unpack it.
What Reaching 5 Million Exports Really Means
Reaching 5 million vehicle exports is a first for any Chinese manufacturer. It’s not just a flex; it’s proof of consistent quality, logistical prowess, and massive international demand. For us in South Africa, it validates the decision many local drivers have already made to back Chery. It also reassures first-time buyers that this is a brand backed by a serious global footprint, with the momentum and investment to stick around for the long haul.
Chery’s milestone was announced at the 2025 Hong Kong International Auto Show, where it was clear that the brand isn’t slowing down anytime soon. They revealed plans to expand into the Hong Kong market, confirmed a listing application for the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and hinted at the potential for a new manufacturing base in the region.
This level of expansion and investment shows confidence, and it tells South Africans something important: your Chery is backed by a rock-solid brand that’s growing smarter, stronger, and more future-forward by the day.
Rapid Growth And Serious Numbers
Between January and May 2025, Chery Group sold over 1 million vehicles. This was its fastest pace ever to hit that milestone in a single year. This included a massive increase in new energy vehicle (NEV) sales, with over 287,000 electric and hybrid cars sold during that period, a 111.5% jump compared to 2024.
Exports for the same timeframe sat at 443,940 units, with 100,737 vehicles shipped in May alone. That means one Chery is exported every 29 seconds. Let that sink in. Every half-minute, someone overseas is buying into the brand that South Africans are starting to see as a smart buy.
And it’s not just about numbers. These figures translate to trust, reliability, and a growing fan base, which now includes over 16.7 million drivers globally, with almost 5 million based outside China. South Africa is part of that momentum.
A Vehicle For Every Lifestyle
At the Hong Kong expo, Chery showcased 12 new energy vehicles across seven sub-brands, including Chery, Exeed, Jetour, iCAR, Luxeed, and the globally recognised OMODA and JAECOO range. Whether it’s a family SUV, city-friendly hybrid, or something built for the occasional dirt road escape, there’s something in the pipeline for every kind of driver.
Chery is no longer building cars for a single market. They’re designing with a global audience in mind, one that includes African drivers, with our unique climate, road conditions, and lifestyle requirements. The company’s multi-brand strategy, combined with the development of region-specific models, means we can expect even more vehicle options that actually make sense for our lives here in Mzansi.
Innovation At The Wheel
Behind Chery’s growth is a serious commitment to tech innovation. From cutting-edge engines with record-breaking efficiency, to electric motors reaching speeds of 30,000 RPM, and even smart robots like “Mogo”, the company is investing billions into R&D to shape the future of driving.
The Kaiyang Laboratory, a new global innovation platform, recently teamed up with Nanyang Technological University in Singapore to explore advanced research in EVs and connected vehicles. It’s the kind of forward-thinking investment that means your next Chery might do more than get you from A to B; it could actively enhance how you drive, navigate, and save energy.
What’s Next?
Since entering the local market, Chery has made a noticeable impact on South African roads and on our wallets. With competitive pricing, long warranties, stylish designs, and high-value features, the brand has disrupted the local SUV segment in particular. It’s giving drivers options that feel aspirational without being out of reach.
This 5 million export milestone backs up what many local customers already feel: that they’re buying into a brand that’s here to stay. Chery is moving into its next phase of global growth, from simply exporting cars to intelligent manufacturing, regional innovation hubs, and localised production. That means more tailored vehicles, better aftersales support, and the kind of longevity South Africans value when choosing a car.
As the brand gains traction around the globe, so too does its promise to drivers here at home. Keep an eye on our blog for more exciting Chery updates, model news, and tech innovation. We’re proud to bring you closer to a brand that’s racing ahead, and taking South Africans with it.