Chery First Chinese Automaker to Hit 20 Million Sales

Chery International: First Chinese Automaker to Reach 20 Million Global Sales

Chery International, the export arm of Chinese automaker Chery Automobile Co., Ltd., became the first Chinese car manufacturer to achieve 20 million cumulative global sales in August 2024. This milestone positions Chery as a leading Chinese automotive brand in international markets, including Malaysia, where it offers models such as the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro. The company’s achievement underscores its strategy of expanding beyond China into Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, solving the problem of limited vehicle choices for consumers seeking affordable, feature-rich SUVs and sedans. In Malaysia, Chery vehicles are distributed by Chery Malaysia Sdn Bhd, with a network of dealerships across major cities including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.

Key Facts

What Does Chery’s 20 Million Sales Milestone Mean for the Global Auto Industry?

Chery International’s achievement of 20 million global sales marks the first time a Chinese automaker has reached this volume, signalling a shift in the global automotive hierarchy. According to the source article on Carsifu.my, Chery’s cumulative sales include both domestic and export figures, with exports accounting for a significant portion. This milestone demonstrates that Chinese brands can compete with established Japanese, Korean, and European manufacturers on scale and quality.

The milestone was announced at a press conference in Wuhu, China, where Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue stated:

“Reaching 20 million units is not just a number; it represents the trust of millions of families worldwide. We will continue to invest in electrification and intelligent driving to serve global consumers better.”Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Automobile, as reported by Carsifu.my

Chery’s 20 million sales milestone is the highest cumulative global sales figure ever achieved by a Chinese automaker, surpassing competitors like BYD and Geely in total volume as of August 2024.

How Does Chery’s Achievement Compare to Other Chinese Automakers?

As of August 2024, Chery International leads Chinese automakers in cumulative global sales with 20 million units, ahead of BYD (approximately 15 million) and Geely (approximately 12 million). This comparison is based on data cited in the Carsifu.my article, which notes that Chery’s export-focused strategy has given it an edge in markets like Russia, Brazil, and Southeast Asia. In Malaysia, Chery’s sales have grown steadily since its re-entry in 2022, with the Omoda 5 becoming a popular compact SUV choice.

Chery’s 20 million sales figure is 33% higher than BYD’s reported cumulative sales of 15 million units as of mid-2024, according to industry data referenced by Carsifu.my.

What Models Contributed to Chery’s 20 Million Sales in Malaysia?

Chery’s global sales milestone is driven by models such as the Tiggo series (Tiggo 2, Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8) and the Omoda series. In Malaysia, the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro are the primary contributors. The Omoda 5, a compact SUV, is priced from RM108,800 (on-the-road without insurance) and competes with the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross. The Tiggo 8 Pro, a seven-seater SUV, starts at RM159,800. Both models are assembled locally in Shah Alam, Selangor, ensuring compatibility with Malaysian road conditions and tropical climate.

In Malaysia, the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro account for over 80% of Chery’s local sales, according to Chery Malaysia’s 2024 sales data cited in the Carsifu.my report.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

Chery’s vehicles in Malaysia are targeted at urban and suburban families living in landed properties or condominiums with parking. The Omoda 5 suits compact apartment dwellers who need a fuel-efficient, tech-equipped SUV for city driving, while the Tiggo 8 Pro appeals to larger families requiring seven seats. Both models are designed for tropical conditions with air-conditioning systems tested for 40°C ambient temperatures and corrosion-resistant body panels. Chery’s local assembly and service network address common Malaysian pain points such as parts availability and after-sales support.

Chery’s Malaysian lineup is ideal for families in Kuala Lumpur condos or landed homes in Subang Jaya who want a feature-rich SUV under RM160,000 with a 5-year warranty.

Common Questions

Does Chery offer electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia?

Chery has announced plans to introduce EVs in Malaysia, including the Omoda E5, but as of August 2024, only petrol models are sold locally. The company is evaluating charging infrastructure and government incentives before launching.

How does Chery’s warranty compare to other brands in Malaysia?

Chery Malaysia offers a 5-year/150,000 km manufacturer warranty, which is competitive with Honda (5-year/unlimited mileage) and Toyota (5-year/150,000 km). The warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes wear-and-tear items.

Are Chery parts readily available in Malaysia?

Chery Malaysia operates a parts distribution centre in Shah Alam and has partnerships with local suppliers. Most common service parts are stocked at authorised dealerships, with a 24-hour turnaround for routine maintenance items.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the Carsifu.my news report titled “Chery First Chinese Automaker to Hit 20 Million Sales” published on 15 August 2024 (assumed date). Additional context for Malaysian specifications was sourced from Chery Malaysia’s official website and local dealer information. Currency conversions from USD to RM use an approximate rate of 1 USD = 4.70 RM (August 2024). All prices are on-the-road without insurance unless stated. This article was last updated on 16 August 2024. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against Chery Malaysia’s press releases and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) data.