Chery locks in Omoda E5 for Australia

CHERY has announced that it will launch a battery electric version of its popular small segment Omoda 5 SUV in Australia towards the middle of the year.

The Chery Omoda E5 is said to mark “a significant milestone in Chery’s brand expansion and commitment to delivering sustainable vehicles to Australian consumers” and will feature a familiar design coupled with a single electric motor that produces 150kW of power and 340Nm of torque.

While Chery has yet to detail pricing, it says the all-electric model will offer buyers a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.6 seconds and ultra-low power consumption of just 15.5kWh/100km. The figure suggests a driving range of 430km is possible.

Further specification and equipment details will be revealed closer to the model’s local launch.

In the meantime, however, Chery Australia says the two-variant range will feature as standard highlights such as a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, panoramic sunroof, digital instrument cluster, and a “wealth of exterior and interior colour options providing both style and functionality”.

Standard and Premium grades will be offered, complementing the internal combustion engine Omoda 5 range (from $34,490 drive-away).

“We are excited to launch the Omoda E5 in Australia,” said Chery Australia managing director Lucas Harris.

“With its combination of unique design, impressive range and advanced features, we are confident the Omoda E5 will be a popular choice for Australian consumers who are increasingly seeking sustainable vehicle options.

“The arrival of the Omoda E5 later this year is the next step in our local expansion strategy and underscores Chery's commitment to providing Australian drivers with access to advanced electric vehicle technology without compromising on performance or style”.

Mr Harris said Chery has sold over 6000 vehicles in Australia since launching in 2023. The brand will continue to roll out new models – including the forthcoming Tiggo 8 SUV – to its more than 60 dealerships nationally.

The Chery Omoda 5 (ICE) has enjoyed a strong start to the year with January sales totalling 515 units.

The top 10 finish places the model just shy of company that includes the MG ZS (1888 units), Hyundai Kona (1368 units), GWM Haval Jolion (1055 units), Mitsubishi ASX (945 units), Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (882 units), Subaru Crosstrek (810 units), Toyota Corolla Cross (775 units), and Kia Seltos (674 units).

Tenth place is rounded out by the Nissan Qashqai (491 units).