KUALA LUMPUR: Chery made a striking appearance at the recently held 2024 Manilla International Auto Show in the Philippines. Alongside previewing the new plug-in hybrid versions of the Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, the Chinese automaker captivated Filipinos with the introduction of its latest electric SUV, the eQ7.

Let’s know this new Chery EV in detail - 

Dimensions

Globally revealed last year, the Chery eQ7 is positioned as a mid-size SUV measuring 4,675 mm in length, 1,910 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height with a class-leading wheelbase of 2,830 mm.

Notably, it is the brand’s first vehicle based on a lightweight all-aluminium platform that reduced the weight by 30%. Figuratively speaking, the EV tips the scales at just 1,850 kg.

Exterior

The Chery eQ7 showcases a contemporary look with a "Super Digital" design language. The front fascia is characterized by slender split headlights, which seamlessly integrate with thin running lights. Below, a lower trapezoidal grille houses a millimetre-wave radar, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetics. At the rear, the EV boasts through-type tail lights echoing the design language established at the front. 

Adding to the vehicle's aerodynamic profile is its minimalist streamlined styling and an active grille system that intelligently closes or opens according to running condition, The drag coefficient of the EV is 0.31 Cd.

Interior

The Chery eQ7 features a luxurious and futuristic cabin adorned with elegant trim accents, soft-touch surfaces, a three-spoke steering wheel, and several creature comforts. The latter includes - dual 12.3-inch displays, a dual-zone air conditioning system, two wireless phone charging pads,  64-color ambient lights, fatigue driving reminder, steering wheel heating, keyless start, remote start, and power-adjustable driver seat with heating and ventilation.

Powertrain 

While Chery PH does not reveal the technical specifications of the eQ7, we can look at the Chinese model for reference. The EV comes in two configurations in the home market. 

The first variant features an electric motor generating 210 PS of maximum power and 285 Nm of torque. It comes paired with a 67.12 kWh battery pack, delivering an impressive 512 km CLTC pure electric cruising range. 

Meanwhile, the second variant boasts a motor outputting 183 PS and 225 Nm of torque, accompanied by a slightly smaller 53.87 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable 412 km CLTC pure electric cruising range. 

In terms of performance, both variants can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 180 kmph. 

The EV boasts fast charging capability, enabling it to charge from 30% to 80% in just half an hour.

Safety

The EV prioritizes safety with an L2+ semi-autonomous driving system, which incorporates multi-scenario advanced driver assistance technologies. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated driver monitoring system, continuously monitoring the driver's state in real-time.  With such innovative safety measures, the EV sets a new standard for safety in the electric vehicle segment.

 Price

The Chery eQ7 is expected to be priced at around Php 2 million (RM 168,301) in the Philippines.

Will the Chery eQ7 EV come to Malaysia?

Considering Chery's active expansion in Malaysia, including the recent launch of the Omoda E5 EV, alongside the growing popularity of electric vehicles in the country, it's quite likely that the Chery eQ7 EV will be introduced in Malaysia as well.

Also read: Doing it right: Chery Malaysia responds rapidly to brake issue problem in hope to not harm exceptional start to 2024