Chery, one of the major Chinese players in the South African automotive landscape, will build on its local success with the expansion of its range next year, with the inclusion of the new Himla bakkie.
Although there has been no final decision on the engine options or prices, the Himla bakkie with the Chery brand name behind it, will definitely draw a lot of attention.
Engine options will, in all likelihood, include a mixture of diesel, petrol and hybrid versions.
A Himla camping conversion, a mobile fortress for polar research, was also shown in China at the 2025 Chery Brand User Summit. Built on the robust bakkie platform, featuring a turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine, eight-speed automatic transmission with 420Nm of torque, it is designed as both a recreational camper and a mobile life-support base for professionals in extreme environments.
At the summit, Chery also showcased the possibilities of the platform on which the Himla is build.
These include a high-performance electric bakkie that shares the same exterior design and dimensions as its petrol-powered counterpart but gains extra power from an 88kWh battery pack that delivers a range of up to 510km.
At the summit, the world’s first seven-seat transformable multi-SUV concept was shown. Developed through global user research across several markets, this concept reflects Chery’s shift from “function-orientated” to “scenario-orientated” design, claims the manufacturer.
Built around nine family scenarios – from commuting and camping to outdoor sports – the vehicle adopts an innovative “6=1” concept, transforming between six configurations to meet 99% of family needs. In Large 7-Seat SUV Mode, it offers a true mobile home experience with ample interior space. Switching to Double-Cab Pickup Mode provides 600 litres of cargo capacity, while Camper Mode accommodates a full suite of outdoor accessories for exploration and leisure, says Chery.
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), developer of a national network of off-grid, solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, has formally submitted an objection to the South African National Roads Agency Limited’s (SANRAL) proposed amendments to its Rest and Service Facilities (RSF) Policy.
Slovakia’s emergency fuel restrictions have drawn sharp criticism from the European Commission (EC), which argues that the measures breach single market rules.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles South Africa is positioning itself for continued growth and expansion with strategic staff appointments across their business, the manufacturer states.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
When South Africans buy a car, the purchase price is only the beginning of the ownership story. The real cost unfolds over years of fuel stops, service intervals, replacement parts and the occasional unexpected repair.
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