Chery has used a tightly packed programme of demonstrations around China’s 2026 International Business Summit to reinforce two priorities for its next wave of vehicles: credible crash protection in complex scenarios and rapid progress towards software-defined, connected driving experiences.
The centrepiece was a public three-vehicle composite crash verification for the Tiggo 9, staged at the Chery Crash Safety Laboratory in Wuhu and observed by global dealers, international media and overseas user representatives.
Rather than a single, laboratory-style impact, the test was designed to mirror high-risk chain collisions seen on fast roads and at junctions. The Tiggo 9 was struck head-on at 50km/h by a Tiggo 7 while being hit from the rear at 40km/h, placing continuous, opposing loads on the structure and requiring restraint systems to respond under pressure.
Chery said the passenger compartment remained intact, with no obvious deformation to key pillars and enough survival space preserved. Front, side and curtain airbags deployed correctly and seat belt pretensioners operated as intended. Post-collision measures also functioned, including automatic door unlocking and hazard warning lights. No fuel leakage was reported. The company attributes the result to a body structure using 85% high-strength steel, including 21% hot-stamped steel, an optimised load-transfer path and a 10-airbag system.
Alongside safety, Chery confirmed an expanded agreement with Qualcomm Technologies to support its move towards software-led vehicle platforms. Under the deal, Chery will adopt parts of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis portfolio across smart cockpits, driver assistance and cockpit-driving integration, aiming for quicker response times, smoother multi-screen interaction and easier scaling across model lines.
The week also included a long-term driving experience in Chengde, mixing city running with mountainous routes. Chery highlighted the efficiency and energy management of its Super Hybrid system and showcased intelligent parking features such as remote vehicle summoning and automated parking in challenging spaces.
Verene Petersen, National Marketing Manager at Chery South Africa, said the developments point to vehicles that are “not only more advanced but also better suited to the demands of everyday driving conditions, from long-distance travel to urban mobility”.
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Stellantis is preparing to channel the bulk of its future investment into four key brands, namely Jeep, Ram, Peugeot and Fiat, as the global automotive giant seeks to stabilise its business and regain market share under chief executive Antonio Filosa, according to an exclusive Reuters report.
China’s carmakers are hunting for their own “Yaris moment”, the kind of locally tailored breakthrough that helped Toyota conquer Europe, as they race to turn booming exports into lasting overseas growth.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles South Africa is strengthening its leadership team as it targets measured growth in local market share, confirming Lex Kriel as its newly appointed Sales Director.
