Chery Celebrates New Era in South Africa with Rosslyn Plant Acquisition and Future Mobility Showcase

• Chery celebrated the acquisition of a manufacturing facility in Rosslyn.
• The acquisition reinforces Chery’s growing momentum in South Africa, reinforces the company’s commitment to local manufacturing and establishes South Africa as the Group’s African hub.
• Chery Q and Tiggo V models which are set to launch before the end of 2026 were showcased at the event.

Chery celebrated a landmark moment in its South African journey on Friday with the official opening of its Rosslyn manufacturing plant and an exclusive New Energy Vehicle (NEV) showcase, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to local manufacturing, industrial development and the future of sustainable mobility in South Africa.

The celebrations brought together more than 600 guests, including senior government officials, captains of industry, business leaders, fleet owners, dealers, suppliers and international executives from Chery Group, marking one of the most significant milestones in the company’s history on the African continent.

The official acquisition of the Rosslyn facility marks Chery’s transition from vehicle importer to local manufacturer and establishes South Africa as the Group’s African manufacturing, export, research and development, and operational hub.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy President Paul Mashatile welcomed the investment, describing it as a strong endorsement of South Africa’s manufacturing capability and economic future.

“This investment sends a powerful message that South Africa remains a compelling destination for investment. It is a strong vote of confidence in our people, our institutions, our infrastructure and our long-term future,” said Mashatile. “The Chery Rosslyn plant must not only be about the vehicles that roll off the production line, but also the lives it touches and transforms, in the communities nearby and for South Africa as a whole.”

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi said Chery’s investment would strengthen one of the province’s most important industries.

“We truly welcome Chery and your long-term vision and commitment to manufacturing excellence, innovation, localisation, skills development and sustainability. We appreciate the succession of nearly 700 employees who carry with them decades of experience. This is a firm commitment that you are here to stay.”

Speaking on behalf of Chery Group, Chairman, President and Founder Yin Tongyue reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to South Africa and its philosophy of investing in the markets where it operates.

“South Africa is a true Rainbow Nation, a country with open arms and an open heart. We value the enduring friendship between South Africa and China, which remains a cornerstone of our global strategy. Wherever we invest, we commit. We become part of the country’s future, and today is proof of that commitment.”

The investment will see Chery retain all 692 existing employees, while creating nearly 3,000 direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, the supply chain and supporting industries. Initial production is expected to commence in mid-2027, with the company targeting localisation milestones by 2028 and an ambition to exceed 100,000 annual vehicle sales in South Africa.

According to Charlie Zhang, Vice President of Chery Automobile, the Rosslyn investment represents far more than a manufacturing operation.

“Our long-term goal is to turn this Rosslyn plant into a centre for research and training, with the aim of exceeding 100,000 annual sales in South Africa. We remain deeply committed to the local economy, aiming to create 3,000 direct jobs and many more indirect jobs in the years to come while creating lasting positive change and sustainable development.”

The day’s celebrations concluded with an exclusive New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Night, where invited guests were given a first look at the upcoming Chery Q and Tiggo V, both scheduled for launch in South Africa later this year.

Leading the showcase was the all-new Chery Q, an all-electric compact vehicle designed to make electric mobility more accessible to a broader audience.

Measuring 4,195 mm in length with a 2,700 mm wheelbase, the vehicle is powered by a 90 kW electric motor and 42.7 kWh battery, delivering a driving range of up to 400 km (NEDC) while offering additional practicality through a 70-litre front trunk.

Also making its South African debut was the Tiggo V, a premium lifestyle SUV that will be offered in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid derivatives. Measuring 4,900 mm in length and featuring 220 mm ground clearance, 650 mm wading depth, 19-inch wheels and a versatile multi-form seating configuration, the Tiggo V has been designed to combine premium comfort with genuine adventure capability for families as well as outdoor enthusiasts.

The showcase of the two new models demonstrates that Chery’s investment in South Africa extends beyond manufacturing to include the introduction of the latest global technologies and new energy mobility solutions tailored for local consumers.

The day’s events also highlighted Chery’s broader commitment to South Africa through localisation, skills development, supplier development, environmental sustainability and community partnerships. Together with its growing portfolio of brands, expanding dealer network and new manufacturing capability, Chery is positioning itself for long-term, sustainable growth in one of its most important global markets.

As the celebrations concluded, the message was clear: Chery’s investment in Rosslyn is not simply the opening of a factory, it marks the beginning of a new chapter in South Africa’s automotive industry, built on partnership, innovation and a shared vision for future mobility.