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In a market characterised by intense competition and financial constraints, introducing a new brand of SUV is daring, but newly appointed Vice President for Jetour in South Africa, Nic Campbell, says that the brand is poised to establish a new standard of excellence in the local automotive industry.

Campbell has been in the motoring trade for over 14 years, with extensive experience working with international car brands and original equipment manufacturers in South Africa. He understands the needs and expectations of the key stakeholders within the value chain and what is needed from a South African perspective and says that finding the middle ground is key.

Dealing with international OEMS and understanding their expectations has positioned him well for this new role at Jetour South Africa, understanding the brand non-negotiables and adapting these to the South African setting.

While keeping dealers and staff happy is vital, putting the needs of the customer first is what Campbell says will set Jetour apart from its competitors.

“When a customer comes into a dealership at the end of their 10-year, one-million-kilometer warranty, we want them to be as happy as they were when they first bought their vehicle,” he says.

Globally, Jetour’s 10-year, one-million-kilometer warranty is a powerful offer that demonstrates the brand’s confidence in the durability and reliability of its vehicles, providing significant peace of mind for customers, and building trust in a brand that was first launched in China in 2018.

“Any new brand will create hype and excitement. How we interact with our customers and develop that trust means getting it right from the start, and that’s why we are driving so hard now to get everything in place,” Campbell says.

Excellent value for money, luxurious interiors, a range of advanced safety and tech features, retro design and robust performance. These are some of the reviews that the Jetour brand has been receiving since launching across the Middle East, Central and South America, Africa and Asia-Pacific.

With the 7-seater Jetour X70PLUS and 5-seater DASHING models arriving in South Africa in September 2024, Campbell says that the company is entering the local market with what customers want, affordable luxury, alongside a comprehensive strategy to ensure that parts are available, that dealers are on board and that aftersales service is in place.

Campbell says that introducing a new brand in a competitive market is very exciting but requires addressing the learnings and challenges faced by previous brands.

As such, Jetour has already started stocking R100 million in parts. This, alongside having secured 40 dealerships nationally, shows just how much detail has gone into the planning of their South African launch. Parts are also not being outsourced or kept off site, but at their headquarters in Kyalami, Johannesburg. “If there are issues, we’ll know about them,” Campbell says.

Another key priority is instilling Jetour’s brand culture and values across this extensive dealer network, with the understanding that for South African customers, their vehicle purchase is one of their biggest assets. “South African customers expect the best and they deserve the best,” he says. “Understanding the mobility needs of the South African consumer and servicing those needs is a key focus area of our network”.

Campbell adds that Jetour is not here to sell one car to one family but wants Jetour to be seen as a mobility solution for the extended family, and for families to become part of the Jetour ecosystem.

A training facility has been established at their headquarters in Kyalami, with intensive sales and after-sales training already underway.

Jetour, one of the fastest growing SUV brands in China, offers the type of vehicle that not only gets families from A to B during the week, but is also synonymous with lifestyle and travel, the perfect SUV in which to explore on weekends and holidays.

“I believe that this great product coming to South Africa is a step above anything we have seen locally before and is the reason I joined the Jetour team. We are leading the way to get this new brand well established from the start.

These cars are beautiful, we have the parts inventory ready, our dealer network is committed and onboard, and we are taking every step to ensure that our customers will be as happy and satisfied as possible”.

The official South African launch of Jetour takes place in Johannesburg on 20 September 2024.

Jetour, one of the fastest growing SUV brands in China, will be entering the South African market this September, with 40 dealerships across the country.

Jetour Auto was launched by the Chery Holding Group in 2018 in response to market trends and consumer demand for vehicles that combine innovative design, advanced technology, and affordability. Since inception, Jetour Auto has operated completely independently in the global market, with dedicated R&D, manufacturing facilities, sales and aftersales channels, and it will also operate independently in the South African market.

Over the last five years alone, Jetour has sold over 1 180 000 vehicles globally across its five product lines, with over 1 200 partners in over 60 countries and regions worldwide, achieving number one in several markets.

Johnny Fang, Managing Director of Jetour in South Africa, says that the company will be targeting sales of 800 units monthly within the first year of operation, with their Jetour X70 Plus and Dashing models as the first to hit the local market. He says priorities locally will also include enhanced service quality and availability of parts.

Our state-of-the-art parts warehouse in Kyalami, spanning 4,000 square meters and housing up to 82,000 parts, only strengthens our commitment to customer satisfaction, providing customers with the parts needed, when they need them, with the efficiency and reliability that they’d expect.

Globally, Jetour has over 27 years accumulated experience and 26 000 patents. By integrating extensive data analytics and intelligent manufacturing equipment, Jetour’s goal is to produce safer, more comfortable, more intelligent and eco conscious automobiles.

A combination of “JET” meaning sleek, fast, successful and victorious and “TOUR” which references the brand’s ethos of freedom and adventure, Jetour is set to become a vehicle synonymous with lifestyle and travel, backed by innovation, reliability, and sustainability.

“We are excited to mirror Jetour’s worldwide success in South Africa and become the top choice for travel vehicles amongst local customers,” Fangs says.

This new automotive brand will target the mid to high-level consumer looking for comfort, elegance, safety and reliability, with expert aftersales service.

With “Drive Your Future” as its tagline, Jetour is set to become a competitive player in the local SUV automotive sector.

Beijing, April 25, 2024 – JETOUR, an industry-leading, innovative SUV brand held a global press conference at the Beijing Auto Show, providing insights into its strategic advancements and enhanced partnerships, further solidifying its ‘Travel+’ vision. The event highlighted JETOUR’s ongoing commitment to intertwining travel with technology, offering a glimpse into a future where exploration and innovation go hand in hand.

Crowds gathering as JETOUR unveiled new models at Beijing Auto Show

China’s ascent in the automotive landscape is a testament to our innovation and drive. “As the global auto industry undergoes significant transformations, JETOUR remains steadfast in our ‘Travel+’ strategy. Our aim is to not just participate but to lead the ‘Travel+’ segment worldwide,” said Mr. Ke ChuanDeng, Vice President of JETOUR Auto. “With ‘One World, One JETOUR,’ we have laid down our ‘Travel+’ footprints across the globe, extending our reach through 600 sales and service networks in over 50 countries and regions. Our preparations for entry into markets with right-hand drive vehicles and our upcoming foray into Europe are testament to our commitment to global integration.”

He further highlighted the brand’s dedication to ESG principles, “At JETOUR, we believe in the power of sustainable development. Through our ESG initiatives, we strive to create and contribute tangible value to society, ensuring that as we grow, we do so with responsibility and purpose.”

In a strategic partnership with Discovery Channel, JETOUR has reinforced its ‘Travel+’ philosophy through the ‘Cheetah Conservation Project.’ This collaboration is a testament to the brand’s resolve to merge the thrill of adventure with ecological mindfulness and environmental dedication. The project sits within a larger framework of JETOUR’s global ESG activities, which include empowering women’s health initiatives in Latin America, fostering child development in the Middle East, and enhancing traffic safety education across Africa.

JETOUR also introduced the super hybrid off-road platform, embodying versatility, new energy prowess, intelligent cockpit innovations, and cutting-edge electronic architecture. Its super hybrid i-DM system, integrated with a 1.5TGDI high-efficiency engine, a specialized DHT gearbox for hybrids, and an advanced battery and management system, promises to revolutionize vehicle performance, energy efficiency, and safety.

JETOUR’s T2, designed for off-road adventurers, quickly became a bestseller after its launch in China

“At JETOUR, we center our product development around their evolving needs, enhancing satisfaction and forging strong relationships through co-creation and attentive listening, with a relentless focus on our customers. We are dedicated to not just following, but shaping this strategy by continuously innovating our ‘Travel+’ products and ecosystem. Our goal is to simplify, enhance, and make travel a more delightful experience for everyone,” Dai Lihong, Executive Vice President of JETOUR Auto, said. “By adhering to global standards and regulations, and partnering with renowned global suppliers, we ensure our new products are of the highest quality, maintaining JETOUR’s reputation as a brand that customers can trust and rely on, no matter where their travels take them.”

JETOUR Automotive made a grand statement at their press conference by highlighting their “Travel+” series of products, with the spotlight on their hybrid electric T-series lineup. The series is specifically crafted for off-road enthusiasts, including the flagship A+ class T1 plug-in hybrid SUV, which is expected to make a grand entry in 2024. It is equipped with a 1.5TGDI engine that’s been fine-tuned for hybrid applications. The T2 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), an innovative travel-oriented hybrid SUV designed for off-road adventures, plans to make its international debut in the fourth quarter. It features a substantial battery capacity for on-the-go charging, enhanced safety features, and efficient performance across all speed ranges, ensuring quick acceleration, stable cruising, and fuel savings for daily commuters.

The T5 will be JETOUR’s first model featuring a girder structure, equipped with a 2.0T engine designed exclusively for hybrid systems, with an expected launch in the upcoming year.

JETOUR will launch its first model featuring a girder structure, T5, next year

In addition, the T2 model, a leader in China’s light off-road vehicle market segment, is set to conquer the Middle East market in early 2024. In response to market demands, JETOUR is set to release an extended seven-seater version of the T2, as well as a specially modified four-wheel-drive version, aiming to provide an enhanced off-road experience and convenience.

JETOUR is also set to expand its innovative product lineup with the introduction of the T7, a vehicle that redefines the boundaries between land and water travel. “Looking ahead, JETOUR is poised to revolutionize the concept of travel with our upcoming T7 model, capable of navigating waters as easily as it cruises on land,” Dai announced. “This extraordinary vehicle will not only take on challenging terrains but will also have the ability to sail for up to 40 minutes, offering an unparalleled travel experience.”

In alignment with global market trends and consumer preferences, JETOUR is also charting its course in the international arena with a strategic approach to technology adoption. Beyond the hybrid models, JETOUR is committed to continuing the development of gasoline-powered vehicles to meet current market demands. The brand is expected to offer a combination of traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) models alongside advanced Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), ensuring a comprehensive and versatile range of options for consumers worldwide. This dual-technology route underscores JETOUR’s commitment to catering to a variety of needs while maintaining its pledge to innovation and excellence in the automotive sector.

Over the past years, JETOUR has demonstrated exceptional growth and a burgeoning dominance in the SUV segment. The company boasts the seventh position in China’s automotive export volume and ranks second in growth rate, indicating its undeniable global impact. Leading the market share in Angola and asserting a strong presence in Uruguay’s SUV market, JETOUR’s expansive network, which includes over 600 sales and service centers in more than 50 countries and regions, is a clear indicator of its international reach and ambitions of penetrating right-hand drive and EU/EU-like markets.

As the ‘Travel+’ vision evolves, JETOUR invites the world to embark on a voyage of discovery and innovation, where every journey promises a story worth telling. JETOUR is committed to leading the charge in the automotive industry’s future, where travel and technology come together to deliver experiences that truly take your breath away.

April 24, 2024, In an impressive assembly of global dealers, JETOUR Auto inaugurated its Annual Business Conference at the Beijing, marking a significant milestone in the company’s international expansion. Uniting over 300 dealers from upwards of 50 countries, the conference theme “Together & Beyond” heralds to reflect on the past year’s achievements and to strategize for a joint future in the dynamic automotive industry.

Through the seamless integration of products and experiences, JETOUR aims to satisfy contemporary consumers’ desires for personalization and differentiation in their travel. The”Travel +” philosophy infuses into every aspect of the business, from product development and brand marketing to customer service, thereby creating automotive products that offer not just utility but emotional value as well. By merging with diverse realms like sports, entertainment, fashion, and music, JETOUR is shaping its brand image to explore broader horizons of travel with its consumers.

In 2023, JETOUR reached significant milestones, with its international sales skyrocketing, ranking it as the second fastest-growing brand among Chinese automotive experts. Leading the charge were the DASHING and X70 series, which captivated consumers with their excellent quality, rich features, stylish design, and exquisite interiors, establishing themselves as market favorites across various regions. Notably, the brand has claimed the top spot for certain model in countries including Angola, Uruguay, Ecuador, and Chile, demonstrating the strong appeal of JETOUR’s brand and the international competitiveness of its products.

The launch of JETOUR T2 model further fueled the brand’s popularity, as it became a sensational hit upon its release. In the Chinese light off-road market, JETOUR T2 dominated sales, remaining the top seller for six consecutive months. Additionally, since its early year debut in the Middle East, the T2 quickly ascended to become the sales champion in the light off-road segment.

The conference showcased the unveiling of JETOUR’s 2030 Development Strategy and fostered dialogue on strategic objectives, including establish 10 KD manufacturing plants worldwide, penetrate 80+ markets, surpass a sales volume of over 1 million vehicles, expand the distribution network to over 1600 outlets. Targeting ambitious goals for 2030, JETOUR intends to solidify its standing in the family travel market with its X series models and to expedite the introduction of off-road and hybrid products into the international market.’

“We are in a rapidly changing era, and through relentless efforts, JETOUR has enriched the lineup of Chinese automotive products, leading high-quality Chinese SUVs onto the global stage. Every step of our growth reflects JETOUR’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction,” Li Xueyong, President of JETOUR Auto, stated in his speech, “JETOUR represents not just the international outlook of a Chinese brand, but the global spread of Chinese SUV technology and the spirit of innovation.”

Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Holding Group, emphasized that Over the past 5 years, JETOUR Auto has joined hands with all partners to create a globally acclaimed development speed for JETOUR within the industry. The global automotive industry landscape is undergoing tremendous changes, and China has become one of the important forces reshaping the future global industrial landscape, leading the global automotive industry into a new stage. With the joint efforts of all dealer partners, JETOUR’s brand will undoubtedly achieve even more remarkable accomplishments.

JETOUR’s success can not be achieved without the support of its strong local dealer networks in key markets, top-performing dealers were honored at an awards ceremony during the conference. During the Sales Target Announcement, attendees pledged collaborative efforts to synchronize their goals and objectives to achieve the exciting vision with JETOUR.

JETOUR Auto is committed to continuing its trajectory of excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With these objectives, it aims to not only expand its global footprint but also to leave a lasting impact on the automotive industry and consumers worldwide, together with its strong partners, to truly bring out the essence of “Together & Beyond.”

On January 27th, 2024, JETOUR T2 was officially launched in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking the beginning of its international journey.

At the event, Mr. Li Xueyong, Vice President of Chery Automobile Co. Ltd, also President of JETOUR Auto, stated,“JETOUR is a brand with long-term vision. Since its inception in 2018, we have consistently adhered to “Travel+” strategy. By integrating tourism with auto industry, we strive to build vehicles that know travel needs best. Our goal is to meet comprehensive needs in our users’trips and daily lives, engaging with users globally in their journeys.“

In his view, the T2, as the first model of JETOUR off-road series, shows JETOUR latest car-making theory and technology. It offers extraordinary travel experience, meeting users’ needs.

JETOUR T2, also known as the ‘Traveler’ in China, has been a hot seller since its launch. It is indicated that the T2 has been breaking records in sales since its debut in September 2023. In December, it sold 13,224 units, surpassing 10,000 sales for two consecutive months in China. It has become the sales champion in the off-road vehicle segment.

Mr. Dai Lihong, the Executive Vice President of JETOUR Auto, unveiled JETOUR latest international product plan. He stated that JETOUR’s future product development would focus on two core scenarios: “family travel” and “off-road travel”. It is anticipated that no less than 10 key models would be launched by 2026, aiming to achieve an annual sales target of one million units.

Mr. Dai Lihong also mentioned that when developing JETOUR T2, they adopted professional opinions from off-road enthusiasts. Therefore, T2 focuses on users’ needs. T2 also adoptes brand new design language, featuring a bold and rugged shape, which is impressive at first glance.

T2 is also equipped for the first time with BorgWarner’s sixth-generation four-wheel-drive technology, the fully automatic intelligent XWD system. The system can intelligently identify different road conditions and adjusts within milliseconds. When driving T2, even novice drivers without off-road experience can enjoy the thrill.

To further enhance its off-road performance, JETOUR T2 exemplifies great efforts on details. Up to 80% of the entire body structure is composed of high-strength steel. It has advantages such as a 28° approach angle, a 30° departure angle, a minimum ground clearance of 220mm, and a wading depth of 700mm. Additionally, the second-row seats can be fully folded flat. Also, T2 has over 50 storage designs. T2 can serve in various scenarios, satisfying users’ needs for both off-road driving and camping experiences.

Apart from its off-road capabilities, JETOUR T2 is also designed for comfort and intelligence. It is equipped with suede seats, a first-class co-driver seat, a five-star health cabin, and a 12-channel SONY premium audio system, creating a sense of light luxury and significantly enhancing the comfort of the travel experience. Besides, JETOUR T2 has the Snapdragon 8155 Smart Chip, 15.6-inch central control screen, a 540° panoramic parking system, and an L2-level ADAS, making more relaxing driving, more convenient parking, and safer travelling.

The outstanding quality of the T2 has also gained favour from customers. The first delivery ceremony was also held at the launch event. Mr. Li Xueyong stated that global users of JETOUR Auto exceeded one million in January 2024. Since the launch of its first model on August 18, 2018, it took 65 months for JETOUR to grow from a new car brand into a million-unit brand. It marks JETOUR as the fastest growing SUV brand in China to reach one-million sales, creating a “JETOUR Speed” far surpassing other brands.

In the future, JETOUR plans to accelerate the globalization of the T2. It would be launched in regions such as the Middle East, Central Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Standing at this new milestone of one million units, JETOUR will continue upholding the “Travel+” strategy, committed to deeply understanding users’ needs and keeping innovation, aiming to become a leading brand in global market.

An award called [Recomendados Autocosmos 2024] was given to JETOUR’s DASHING model in Chile on January 10, 2024.

The award was created by Autocosmos, which is one of the most important car websites in Latin America. The winning model had to go through a professional evaluation before it could be recommended. After the actual test, they believe that the DASHING model breaks the Chilean market’s impression of traditional Chinese SUVs in terms of exterior design, which is very interesting and attractive. Technology adds luxury, which fits the value-for-money philosophy. Also, the DASHING is powerful and easy to drive.

Andes Motor, the distributor of JETOUR in Chile, said that since its launch in June 2023, DASHING has gained a lot of attention from the media and users, and sales have been on the rise. According to the latest industry data, DASHING’s market share in the compact SUV segment reached 1.55%, ranking second in sales among Chinese brands in the compact SUV segment.

The JETOUR brand’s first compact SUV is called DASHING. It has an innovative design that combines fashion and technology. Since it launched in other countries in 2023, it quickly became popular with young people. It meets the needs of consumers for a car that looks good and is useful, and it also has the best technology, comfort, and safety in its class.

JETOUR will continue to serve consumers with high-quality products and services, build the brand-customer relationship, put users first, understand user demand, and improve service and product value. It aims to become the top automotive brand by providing high-quality products and services worldwide