iCAUR launches rugged new electric 03T SUV in South Africa

Chinese automotive group Chery has officially launched the all-new iCAUR 03T in South Africa, adding another contender to the country’s growing new-energy vehicle market.

The 03T, introduced under Chery’s new-energy sub-brand iCAUR, will initially be offered in two derivatives—a rear-wheel-drive 2WD model and a more powerful all-wheel-drive AWD version.

Positioned as a rugged, lifestyle-focused electric SUV, the 03T enters an increasingly competitive segment that includes rivals such as the MINI Countryman SE ALL4, Toyota bZ4X and hybrid off-roaders like the GWM Tank 300 HEV.

Visually, the 03T combines retro-inspired SUV styling with modern electric vehicle design cues.

Squared-off proportions, pronounced wheel arches and upright body lines give it a rugged appearance, while slim LED lighting and a panoramic glass roof add a more contemporary feel.

Fast charging capability

Underneath, the SUV uses an all-aluminium multi-cavity body structure that iCAUR claims improves corrosion resistance while reducing weight and improving energy efficiency.

The entry-level 2WD model is powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 135kW and 220Nm of torque, enabling a claimed 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.

The flagship AWD derivative uses a dual-motor setup producing a combined 205kW and 385Nm, reducing the 0-100km/h time to 6.5 seconds.

Both models have a top speed limited to 150km/h. Battery capacity stands at 65.69kWh for the 2WD and 69.77kWh for the AWD.

According to iCAUR, the SUV delivers a claimed driving range of 431km for the rear-wheel-drive model and 436km for the AWD version.

Fast charging capability allows both derivatives to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes using a DC fast charger.

The AWD model further expands its lifestyle and adventure appeal with nine selectable driving modes, including Beach, Muddy and All-Road settings.

Enhanced passenger comfort features

Inside, the cabin focuses heavily on technology and comfort. Standard equipment includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, climate control, leather upholstery, wireless charging and electrically adjustable front seats.

Higher-spec AWD models additionally gain massage seats, a premium Infinity audio system, and enhanced passenger comfort features.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, automatic emergency braking and a 540-degree surround-view camera system.

“The new 03T is a very clear expression of what iCAUR stands for: an electric SUV with strong visual character and the technology to make every journey easier,” said Shannon Gahagan, national brand and marketing manager at iCAUR South Africa and OMODA & JAECOO South Africa.

Pricing starts at R639 900 for the 2WD derivative and R699,900 for the AWD version. The 03T arrives in South African showrooms on May 28.

Visit SW YouTube Channel for our video content

  • Chery's new-energy sub-brand iCAUR has launched the all-new electric SUV iCAUR 03T in South Africa, available in rear-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) versions.
  • The rugged yet modern SUV features retro-inspired styling, fast charging (10%-80% in ~30 minutes), and advanced materials for improved efficiency and corrosion resistance.
  • Performance specs include 135kW/220Nm for 2WD (0-100 km/h in 10.5 seconds) and 205kW/385Nm for AWD (0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds), with ranges of 431 km (2WD) and 436 km (AWD).
  • The interior offers a 15.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, climate control, leather upholstery, with higher AWD trims adding massage seats and premium audio.
  • Safety features include six airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, automatic emergency braking, and a 540-degree surround-view camera; pricing starts at R639,900 and the vehicle will be available from May 28.
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Chinese automotive group Chery has officially launched the all-new iCAUR 03T in South Africa, adding another contender to the country’s growing new-energy vehicle market.

The 03T, introduced under Chery’s new-energy sub-brand iCAUR, will initially be offered in two derivatives—a rear-wheel-drive 2WD model and a more powerful all-wheel-drive AWD version.

Positioned as a rugged, lifestyle-focused electric SUV, the 03T enters an increasingly competitive segment that includes rivals such as the MINI Countryman SE ALL4, Toyota bZ4X and hybrid off-roaders like the GWM Tank 300 HEV.

Visually, the 03T combines retro-inspired SUV styling with modern electric vehicle design cues.

Squared-off proportions, pronounced wheel arches and upright body lines give it a rugged appearance, while slim LED lighting and a panoramic glass roof add a more contemporary feel.

Underneath, the SUV uses an all-aluminium multi-cavity body structure that iCAUR claims improves corrosion resistance while reducing weight and improving energy efficiency.

The entry-level 2WD model is powered by a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 135kW and 220Nm of torque, enabling a claimed 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.

The flagship AWD derivative uses a dual-motor setup producing a combined 205kW and 385Nm, reducing the 0-100km/h time to 6.5 seconds.

Both models have a top speed limited to 150km/h. Battery capacity stands at 65.69kWh for the 2WD and 69.77kWh for the AWD.

According to iCAUR, the SUV delivers a claimed driving range of 431km for the rear-wheel-drive model and 436km for the AWD version.

Fast charging capability allows both derivatives to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes using a DC fast charger.

The AWD model further expands its lifestyle and adventure appeal with nine selectable driving modes, including Beach, Muddy and All-Road settings.

Inside, the cabin focuses heavily on technology and comfort. Standard equipment includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, climate control, leather upholstery, wireless charging and electrically adjustable front seats.

Higher-spec AWD models additionally gain massage seats, a premium Infinity audio system, and enhanced passenger comfort features.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot detection, automatic emergency braking and a 540-degree surround-view camera system.

The new 03T is a very clear expression of what iCAUR stands for: an electric SUV with strong visual character and the technology to make every journey easier,” said Shannon Gahagan, national brand and marketing manager at iCAUR South Africa and OMODA & JAECOO South Africa.

Pricing starts at R639 900 for the 2WD derivative and R699,900 for the AWD version. The 03T arrives in South African showrooms on May 28.

Visit SW YouTube Channel for our video content

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