Chinese auto giant creates new iCAR brand with sports cars and SUVs aimed at younger buyers
Chery has created yet another new brand under its sprawling automotive empire – iCAR – and unveiled two near-production models that show its intent to attract younger buyers.
These are the 2024 iCAR GT, which is designed as a fast, affordable electric sports car not unlike the MG Cyberster, and the 2024 iCAR 03 that looks like a zero-emissions rival for the Ford Bronco.
Chery’s iCAR is unrelated to phone giant Apple’s forthcoming model also dubbed iCar, with the ‘i’ representing all sorts of words pitched at Generation Z such as individual, internet, inspiration, information, innovation and intelligence.
There are few hard facts surrounding the 2024 iCAR GT at this stage, however Chery is reportedly targeting an entry-level price of just 150,000 yuan ($A32,000).
The scissor doors and steering wheel yoke might be ditched by the time it reaches production, although the roadgoing version of the MG Cyberster – also shown in Shanghai this week – is sticking with similarly exotic doors.
Meanwhile, the iCAR 03 SUV measures 4200mm long, 1800mm wide and stands 1700mm tall, with a 2700mm wheelbase.
There’s a clear off-road intent with its design, but thoroughly modern technology appears across the vehicle, including more than 20 sensors that will provide it with Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving capability.
At the pre-Shanghai motor show unveiling, Chery announced that it would unwrap a further four concepts for iCAR including another SUV and more sports cars.
Executives also revealed iCAR models would come with an ‘i-VA’ virtual assistant that will harness the power of artificial intelligence to help drivers on the move.
Chery also announced that its future models would be powered by next-generation CATL batteries called ENER-Q that feature sodium-ion batteries.
Chery has already established a foothold in Australia with the new Chery Omoda 5 and has made it clear that it plans to leverage other brands within the stable to build its market share Down Under.
So keep an eye on iCAR as the models draw closer to production.
Image source: CarNewsChina.com
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Keyword: Chery’s iCAR GT sports car targets Gen Z