Chery planning Australian comeback, could it make its way to NZ?

Chery is poised to return down under, triggering speculation the Chinese carmaker could work its way to New Zealand.

Australian outlet Wheels is reporting Chery is making a comeback after nearly a decade since it was last seen in dealerships.

The primarily cheap passenger cars and small SUVs were criticised for being unsafe and scoring poorly on crash tests.

However, Chery has remained one of China’s largest car exports, with success in Asia, South America and the Middle East.

Australia is the brand’s next port of call, with a Chery dual-cab ute being released in 2023, signalling the start of the manufacturer’s return.

The ute will be followed by two Chery SUVs in 2024.

Chery’s ambition is to market itself as an affordable yet respected car brand. They aim to sell 30,000 models each year.

Doing so would see Chery do something of an MG, which has had solid success since its return to Australia and New Zealand, namely with its ZS EV.

According to documents obtained by Wheels, Chery projects overtaking Hyundai in Australia sales within the next five years.

Interestingly, Chery will be making its way to Australia on its own. It won’t be managed by importer Ateco Automotive, which has strong ties with New Zealand.

But given Chery’s bold sale plans and the proximity between us and Australia, you could expect to see something on our shores if the Australian return is successful.

NZ Autocar Magazine has reached out to Chery about their potential New Zealand plans. We are yet to hear back.