China’s Chery Group to Launch iCar V23 SUV, aiming for Global Markets
SHANGHAI — As Apple officially ended its decade-long “Project Titan” electric car initiative this year, leaving many wondering what the future holds for the automotive industry, China’s Chery Group is stepping up with its own offering. The company plans to launch the iCar V23,a compact 4×4 SUV,in 2027,with ambitions to expand its reach into international markets.
The iCar V23 was recently showcased at the Shanghai auto show, where details about its design and features were revealed.
The V23’s exterior design blends retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities,drawing inspiration from several iconic off-road vehicles. The rear headlights are reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz G-class, while the overall profile evokes the Land Rover Defender. The front-end design, with its flat hood and prominent fenders, is similar to the Jeep Wrangler, and the spartan front fascia pays homage to the classic Russian UAZ 469.
Measuring 4.22 meters (approximately 13.8 feet) in length, with a wheelbase of 2.73 meters (8.9 feet), the iCar V23 falls just below the compact SUV segment. It has a width of 1.91 meters (6.2 feet) and a height of 1.84 meters (6 feet), with a ground clearance of 210 millimeters (8.3 inches). With approach and departure angles of 43 and 41 degrees, respectively, the V23 boasts superior off-road capabilities compared to many urban crossovers, making it suitable for tackling dirt roads and moderate inclines.
Inside, the iCar V23 features a minimalist yet customizable design.The dashboard has a 15.4-inch central display powered by a Qualcomm snapdragon 8155 chip. The system will have Apple CarPlay and advanced voice command capabilities.The vehicle’s driving assistance systems will use the Falcon 500 platform, which integrates radar, sensors, and cameras to enable Level 2 autonomous driving functions such as lane keeping and highway assistance.
Chery Group, the parent company of the Omoda and Jaecoo brands, hopes the iCar V23 will appeal to consumers seeking a rugged aesthetic in a compact package.
