Chinese automaker Chery has announced the launch of its first locally manufactured SUV, the Omoda C4, at a former Nissan plant in Rosslyn, near Pretoria, South Africa. The vehicle is slated for release in 2027 and will be available in petrol, hybrid, and fully electric versions.
The Omoda C4 is a B-segment crossover SUV featuring angular styling and hidden LED headlights, along with a minimalist interior that integrates a touchscreen interface. Among its technological advancements are an AI voice assistant, a 540-degree camera, and Level 2+ driver assistance systems.
Chery acquired the Rosslyn facility in 2026 and plans to utilize it as a base for manufacturing not just the Omoda C4 but also for vehicle exports and research and development across Africa. The company aims to enhance local supply by implementing a localisation programme to boost the proportion of locally sourced components in its production processes.
As part of a broader manufacturing initiative at the site, the Omoda C4 will pave the way for additional models, including those under the Jetour brand and the Chery Grootman pickup. During the initial ramp-up phase, Chery anticipates producing around 15,000 vehicles in the latter half of 2027, with plans to increase annual output to 50,000 units in subsequent years.
The investment in South Africa aligns with a projected growth trajectory for the country’s automotive market, which reached $15.2 billion in 2025 and is expected to rise to $23.7 billion by 2034 at a compound annual growth rate of 4.93% from 2026 to 2034. This market expansion continues to attract interest from Chinese manufacturers seeking to grow their international presence amidst rising competition domestically.
South Africa stands as the continent’s second-largest automotive manufacturing hub, making it a vital location for global carmakers aiming to leverage production capacity and tap into regional export markets. Chery’s establishment of operations in this well-developed industry environment also facilitates its entry into the competitive South African market.
