Chery iCar 03 Electric Crossover Launch and Market Plans
In its home market, Chinese automaker Chery has begun taking orders for the iCar 03 electric crossover and has disclosed the starting price for the model. This update, reported by a major industry outlet, highlights Chery’s confidence in its newest electric offering and its strategy for rolling it out to customers in its domestic market. The initial coverage also notes how the company frames the model within its broader electrified lineup.
The base version of the rear‑wheel‑drive iCar 03 is equipped with an electric motor rated at 184 horsepower. It ships with a 51 kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed driving range around 401 kilometers on a single charge. In China, the starting price for this configuration sits at ¥129.8 thousand, which is roughly equivalent to 1.7 million rubles based on the exchange rate at publication time. A version featuring a larger 66 kWh battery and an expanded power reserve of about 501 kilometers is priced from ¥159.8 thousand, approximately 2 million rubles, reflecting the premium for the extended range and capacity.
For customers seeking greater performance, the iCar 03 is also offered with all‑wheel drive. The AWD variant pairs a more powerful electric motor with 279 horsepower and is available with different battery capacities. The price range for this all‑wheel configuration generally falls between ¥159.8 thousand and ¥185.8 thousand, which translates to roughly 2 million to 2.4 million rubles depending on the chosen battery size and other spec options.
Beyond the domestic market, the narrative around Chery’s electrified strategy includes a plan to introduce a new car brand in Russia. The brand is expected to carry the Chery name and to extend the company’s electric and plug‑in hybrid offerings within the Russian market. Specifically, industry observers note that two electric models and three plug‑in hybrids were anticipated to arrive in Russia in 2024, indicating a broader push to diversify sales channels and capitalize on demand for electrified vehicles in the region.
In related regional automotive news, a separate report indicates that a state road agency named Avtodor undertook a court‑ordered effort related to road maintenance. The organization undertook actions to repair potholes on a major highway, underscoring ongoing infrastructure work that can influence vehicle performance and consumer perception of new car models as they navigate real roads and long‑term driving conditions.
Overall, the rollout plan for the iCar 03 showcases Chery’s commitment to expanding its electrified product family while exploring new markets and brand opportunities. The pricing strategy aligns with regional market expectations, balancing affordability with the appeal of longer range and enhanced performance. By offering both rear‑wheel drive and all‑wheel drive configurations, Chery aims to meet a spectrum of buyer needs—from everyday urban commuting to more demanding highway driving—while keeping an eye on the evolving landscape of EV incentives and infrastructure in major markets.
As the company progresses, potential buyers can expect continued updates on available configurations, charging compatibility, and long‑term ownership costs. With the global emphasis on sustainable mobility, Chery’s iCar 03 adds to a growing catalog of affordable electric crossovers that seek to combine practical range with modern features, all while signaling the brand’s ongoing commitment to electrification and regional growth in both domestic and international markets.