Chery, the Chinese automobile maker, is planning to introduce the EQ7 electric crossover to the Russian market. This development was shared during a company press briefing reported by Izvestia, highlighting an expansion push for electric vehicles within the Russian Federation.
Sales of the Chery EQ7 in Russia are anticipated to begin around July to August of this year. The automaker disclosed that a left-right drive version was being prepared specifically for the Russian audience, with an all-wheel-drive variant designed to handle the country’s demanding winter conditions. In contrast, the version sold in China is primarily front-wheel drive. The company also outlined broader plans to broaden its footprint for electric vehicles across Russia.
Anton Nazarov, Deputy Director of the Tiggo brand, noted that the EQ7 has already completed certification and will enter the domestic market soon. All electric Chery models slated for Russia will be marketed under the Chery Tiggo label, aligning with the brand’s regional strategy.
Chery also indicated that the vehicle would require adjustments to suit the Russian environment. Specific changes include firmware updates for the climate control system to cope with severe frosts, as well as other configuration differences intended for the Russian market.
In its home market, China, the EQ7 is equipped with a 211-horsepower powertrain and an aluminum body. The design work for the model benefited from collaboration with the Pininfarina studio, known for shaping the aesthetics and aerodynamics of modern vehicles.
Previously reported, the introduction of the Chery crossover to Russia is a development that has been closely watched by industry observers and potential buyers alike, signaling a major step in the brand’s international electrification strategy as described in Izvestia’s coverage.