Chery Automobile Co., Ltd, China’s leading vehicle exporter, is to start an all-new model line of passenger cars globally and plan to sell in Europe within the next few years under an all-new nameplate: EXEED. The EXEED nameplate consists of a matrix of SUV and cars supported by premium standard processes, high efficiency and intelligent technologies.
The first Chery model to go on sale across Europe, the EXEED TX, will be a compact SUV designed for young, urban, progressive-minded customers, and will meet the needs and expectations of European private and fleet buyers in terms of design, quality, dynamics, connectivity and safety.
The Chery EXEED TX is being revealed globally in pre-production form for the first time at the 2017 IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show.
The new model will exhibit an evolution of Chery’s progressive ‘Life in Motion’ design philosophy, which aims to appeal to young, urban, forward-thinking customers. It is based on signature ‘hydrodynamic surfacing’ characteristics, with a confident, purposeful stance and chrome-accented Chery brand face.
The all-new, high quality platform – specifically developed for the new model line and to accommodate electrified powertrains – and its technologies have been developed in partnership with the world’s leading suppliers.
Inside, the new compact SUV incorporates the very latest smart technology, with connected infotainment, intelligent navigation and a comprehensive suite of the very latest advanced driver safety systems.
“In just a few years we intend to start selling a family of vehicles in European markets across multiple segments, with power supplied by a range of electrified powertrains,” explains Chery CEO Dr. Anning Chen at Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. The company has indicated that it plans to sell a range of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
“Our brand will target open-minded, relatively younger customers in particular, with a product rollout strategy that focuses on quality, low- and zero-emissions powertrains, and emotional engagement with customers. All Chery vehicles that are intended to be sold in Europe will feature class-leading connectivity, be fun to drive, offer flexible and spacious interiors and will provide comprehensive personalisation, all of which are aligned with our high standards of product quality and aftersales support,” Dr. Anning Chen concludes.
Chery is evaluating the sales opportunity in key markets, ahead of setting up a European sales operation in co-operation with import and distribution partners. The new design and R&D facilities in Europe will accelerate Chery’s plan for global expansion.
Modern, progressive design
The EXEED TX showcases the design direction that will mark out all the SUV and crossover models arriving as part of Chery’s new model line for Europe. While they will wear a Chery badge, they incorporate a new evolution of the Chinese brand’s ‘Life In Motion’ design philosophy, developed by Chief Designer, James Hope.
The distinctive form of the all-new prototype compact SUV is an evolution of Chery’s brand style, a design that is conceived to appeal to the new generation of young, urban, forward-thinking customers who choose sophisticated, high quality products.
Many of the feature lines are inspired by nature and incorporate ‘hydrodynamic surfacing’ characteristics, which convey the pure, aesthetic quality of running water. The muscular and purposeful stance exudes confidence, with a sense of stability assured by the wide track and large, stylish wheels.
The progressive styling is also reflected in the car’s unique brand face. It features a sharp chrome horizontal brand bar, which is complemented by further chrome trim adorning the front bumper, side skirts and window surrounds. Full LED headlamps and a neat rear light cluster design complete the car’s dynamic aesthetic.
Interior design, quality and connectivity
In the cabin, sharp horizontal lines produce a sense of open spaciousness, while coloured LED lighting can be personalised to create the perfect ambience for occupants.
The car’s futuristic appeal is further augmented by the 10-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash that provides access to a range of infotainment, interior and driver settings and vehicle status information menus.
The new compact SUV incorporates the very latest smart technology. Seamless smartphone connectivity, voice recognition, built-in WiFi and Chery’s ‘E call’ emergency assistance service will be standard. A comprehensive suite of connected infotainment apps, including intelligent navigation with real-time traffic information, will be accessible through the large touchscreen display.
In addition, further high tech innovation is evidenced by the small touchscreen displays at the centre of the two ventilation rotary switches.
Reflecting the car’s environmental considerations, a unique LED strip beneath the dials changes between shades of blue and red, depending on the quality of air entering the cabin from outside.
Driver convenience is provided through a range of advanced aids, including keyless go, a 360-degree round-view camera, smart opening trunk and park assist technologies. Premium interior comfort is assured by luxury heated seats, panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, and auto-change ambient lighting.
The car can be personalised for regular drivers, with the ambient lighting, infotainment settings and driver seat positions memorised for each.
Advanced electrified powertrains
The EXEED TX will be made available in Europe with three highly efficient electrified powertrains: a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or battery electric vehicle (BEV).
The first configuration to go on sale will be an ultra-low emission PHEV variant. This model will intelligently combine a 110 kW 1.5-litre gasoline combustion engine with a 85 kW electric motor, powering the EXEED TX via an intelligent all-wheel-drive system through a seven-speed hybrid drive transmission.
With the combined power of the combustion engine and e-motor, the compact SUV will reach 100km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h and fuel consumption of 1.8L/100km (NEDC).
The EXEED TX will be able to travel up to 120 km/h for up to 70 km in pure electric mode with power supplied by the NCM Lithium battery.
The battery will fast-charge to 80% in 30 minutes and reach full charge from a 220 V household supply in just four hours.
World-class engineering partnerships
Chery’s all-new model line is being engineered to the highest European benchmarks. It is partnering with the world’s best suppliers and is incorporating a brutally rigorous international development programme for the compact SUV that will lead the brand’s entry into the European market in the coming years.
Ray Briezinski, Executive Vice President of Product Development, Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. said: “Europe is one of the most mature automotive marketplaces in the world, and is home to the most demanding and sophisticated customers. We are leaving nothing to chance to ensure our new model line is engineered to meet and even exceed expectations. Our entire development programme is driven by the philosophy to ensure we leave a very positive and compelling first impression.”
Chery has selected the global leaders in each of the crucial vehicle platform and technology systems to ensure its range of new cars for Europe exhibit the highest quality standards.
The advanced, high quality platform – codenamed ‘M3X’ – developed from scratch specifically for the new model line and to accommodate electrified powertrains, was designed and engineered in conjunction with Germany’s Benteler. The EXEED TX is the first model to benefit from the new platform.
A rewarding driving experience is assured from a sophisticated suspension set up, with MacPherson struts at the front, and multi-link system at the rear. The dynamic engineering team tuned the chassis to provide the driver with direct response, excellent feel and predictable, reassuring handling.
The all-wheel-drive system has been co-engineered with Dana and BorgWarner to provide a secure, sure-footed traction, while the six-speed manual and seven speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions have been supplied and integrated with Getrag. Valeo is supplying various technologies such as the clutch and advanced driver assist systems.
Bosch is supplying the 10-inch TFT head unit and 7-inch TFT cluster display, further enhancing the HMI interface and connectivity features. The German engineering company is also responsible for various safety and engine management components.
The unique LED head lamp and rear lamp units have been developed by Hella, one of the most experienced suppliers of lighting and electronics products in the world.
Continental Automotive is providing world class Body Control Module (BCM) and Gateway applications to support the vehicle’s sophisticated electronic architecture. The industry-leading solution drives the car’s connectivity features, security and convenience controls. Continental also supplies the tyres for the 19-inch wheels.
Extreme weather testing in hot and cold climates – undertaken in conjunction with its supplier partners – is already in progress. In addition, the new compact SUV has undergone thorough testing at high speeds to ensure its performance capabilities on Europe’s highways.
Comprehensive active and passive safety
A comprehensive range of advanced driver assistance systems provide the highest levels of safety, backed by a ChinaNCAP 5-star rating.
Collision protection, lane departure warning, blind spot warning and speed limiter technologies are supplemented by an advanced driver fatigue detection system that monitors driver responsiveness and takes action as required.
These are complemented by front, side, rear side and curtain airbags.
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