In the Chinese two-wheeler space, Chery will primarily target the tech-focused and premium electric two-wheeler market
Widely known as a major passenger car and SUV manufacturer with brands like Omoda, Jaecoo, Jetour, and Exeed, Chery has laid the groundwork for its entry into the electric two-wheeler segment. Chery’s commercial vehicle arm was recently granted approval by the government to commence motorcycle production.
Information available in China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) regulatory filings reveals that Chery has already registered an electric moped. At a recent technology event, Chery also showcased two of its upcoming products – a pure electric ADV scooter and an EREV motorcycle.
Entry-level electric moped registered
While Chery is targeting China’s premium electric two-wheeler segment, it has begun with the registration of a low-cost electric moped. This could just be a regulatory filing placeholder, allowing Chery to obtain its official motorcycle manufacturing license in China. This electric moped could also serve as a learning exercise for Chery’s organizational teams, as the company is venturing into the two-wheeler space for the first time.
Chery has not revealed any specifications of its e-moped. Interestingly, the electric moped listed on MIIT website looks quite similar to Yamaha’s Vino range of scooters. These are equipped with ICE engines, from 50 cc to 150 cc. In China, electrified cloned versions of the Vino have existed for almost two decades. These e-moped clones are dirt cheap, available for as low as CNY 2000 (Rs 28,000).
Targeted at China’s low-end market, many of these cloned e-mopeds share parts and body shells to keep costs in check. A small battery pack of less than 2 kWh is often used, allowing a range of around 50 km. Instead of lithium-ion, these cloned e-mopeds often have low-cost lead-acid batteries. Use of hub motors also helps reduce costs.
World’s first AI-powered EREV cruiser
At a recent technology event organized at its Wuhu headquarters, Chery unveiled two of its upcoming NEV bikes. These will go on sale under Chery’s Cinnox brand. One of these is ‘Grow C3’, which is being positioned as the world’s first range-extended AI-intelligent cruiser. This high-end motorcycle has pure electric propulsion and a small petrol generator to charge the battery pack on the move.
Grow C3 also has Vehicle to Load (V2L) capability, effectively eliminating the need for external power generators. Users can expect multiple benefits with Grow C3 such as longer range and lower fuel and maintenance costs. The bike has a digital instrument console and connectivity functions such as access to calls and music. It also supports OTA updates. The cruiser style design ensures that riders can easily manage long journeys.
Chery also showcased a pure electric adventure (ADV) scooter, offering a range of around 150 to 200 km. However, detailed specifications of this bike are currently not available. Chery has stated that this ADV could be recharged using an automotive charger. It is not known if the bike supports AC or DC charging. More details will be revealed closer to launch.
