Crossover specialist Chery Auto is shaking up its product line up with the Auto Shanghai debuts of its first-ever pickup truck and a state-of-the-EV-art all-new QQ, which sheds its cutesy and tiny subcompact hatchback form factor of old in favor of an almost Mini Cooper-like compact hatch/crossover body styling with a fully electric powertrain.
The 21st Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2025) was a show of force for the Chery Group, which showcased 53 models from its five brands—Chery, Jetour, Exeed, iCAR, and Luxeed—reflecting the company’s expanding presence in both domestic and international markets.
Chery alone revealed no less than 16 models. These included the aforementioned new pickup truck, the Himla, the QQ compact EV, and the striking Tiggo 9L concept SUV. Chery’s Auto Shanghai lineup covers internal combustion engines, hybrids, and battery-electric vehicles.
Chery Group Chairman Yin Tongyue outlined Chery’s focus on four key areas: electrification, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and globalization. This includes new battery and motor technologies, intelligent driving systems, and sustainable materials.
Chery’s first-ever pickup truck (the Himla name was inspired by the Himalayas), is designed for all-terrain and multi-scenario use. While the show truck sported a diesel engine, the upcoming variants will have both gasoline and new energy powertrains. This move further diversifies Chery’s global product portfolio. There was no final word from Philippine Chery officials as to when the Himla will be introduced locally or what its pricing will be.
The history-rewriting all-new QQ electric vehicle, on the other hand, incorporates personalization features and user-driven development initiatives while the Tiggo 9L SUV features AI-based chassis systems in a three-row 7-seater layout.
At Auto Shanghai, Chery unveiled its new global strategy under the theme “Navigating the Future,” announcing its ambition to achieve annual global sales of 1 million vehicles within two years. Chery currently has 3,000 dealers across 97 countries worldwide. In 2024, Chery achieved global sales of 640,000 units. For 22 consecutive years, Chery has been one of China’s top automotive exporters. With over 16 million vehicles sold globally—4.7 million overseas—the company is now tailoring products for specific international markets. Chery boasts a diversified R&D network spanning eight research centers, 10 production bases, and regional component hubs across the globe.
Chery is also rebranding its hybrid technology under the new Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) nomenclature, with its popular crossovers Tiggo 7 CSH, Tiggo 8 CSH, and flagship Tiggo 9 CSH sporting the new hybrid branding.
Chery also showcased its advancements in AI through exhibits like the AiMOGA robot and robot dog, offering a glimpse into its vision for the future of mobility. Chery also exhibited its next-gen Kunpeng hybrid system and even flying vehicle prototypes. With its family-oriented positioning, global R&D capabilities, and diversified product strategy, Chery is charting a clear path toward its quest to be among the world’s top automakers.
Photos by Manny de los Reyes