Chery South Africa has taken its new hybrid ambitions to the open road, quite literally. Following the highly anticipated launch of the Tiggo Cross CSH Hybrid and Tiggo 7 CSH Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), the brand set out to validate the performance, efficiency, and versatility of its latest electrified models — not in the lab, but on South Africa’s roads.
The result? A powerful statement that Chery’s next-generation Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology delivers far more than promises — it delivers real-world transformation for everyday driving and long-distance travel alike.
Going the Distance — and Then Some
At the heart of the roadshow was a rigorous endurance test designed to replicate how South Africans drive — blending congested urban traffic, long stretches of highway, and varied terrain. The Tiggo 7 CSH PHEV emerged as a star performer, achieving an impressive 1,290 km of total range, comfortably exceeding its official 1,200 km rating.
Underpinning this performance is a highly advanced powertrain architecture that combines Chery’s fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5 TGDI dedicated hybrid engine with a stepless Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and a high-performance hybrid battery system. Together, these elements deliver robust real-world performance and seamless transitions between electric and petrol modes.
However, the standout achievement came from the forthcoming Tiggo 9 CSH Hybrid — a full-size seven-seater family SUV due for release in South Africa later this month — which recorded a staggering 1,374 km on a single tank. That figure blows past its WLTC-estimated 1,050 km range and sets a new benchmark for the segment.
More Than a Powertrain — A Complete Lifestyle Solution
“These results reinforce our belief that hybrid technology can deliver more than just efficiency; it can redefine what South Africans expect from family vehicles,” said Verene Petersen, National Brand & Marketing Manager at Chery South Africa.
And redefine it does. With a pure electric driving range of 93 km, the Tiggo 7 CSH is perfectly suited for daily commutes — in most cases, entirely on battery power. For longer trips, the hybrid system seamlessly kicks in to extend the range without missing a beat. The DC fast-charging capability allows drivers to top up the battery from 30% to 80% in under 19 minutes, giving back time in the most convenient way — during a short coffee break.
Fuel Efficiency Meets Everyday Practicality
Engineered for real-world efficiency, the Tiggo 7 CSH returns fuel consumption as low as 4.9L/100 km in charge-depleting mode. With a thermal efficiency of 44.5% and mechanical efficiency of up to 98% from its DHT, this hybrid powertrain reduces the total cost of ownership, while delivering a refined and confident driving experience.
These figures matter. For drivers criss-crossing provinces, navigating urban sprawl, or even just making the school run more economical, the Tiggo 7 CSH removes barriers. Range anxiety? Gone. Refuelling stress? Minimal. Efficiency compromise? Non-existent.
Built for the New South African Adventure
In an era where remote escapes and digital connectivity collide, the Tiggo 7 CSH also answers the call of the outdoors. With a 3.3 kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, this hybrid can power everyday appliances — from coffee makers to electric grills — without needing a secondary power source.
It’s a subtle yet powerful feature that turns campsites into comfort zones and tailgates into tech hubs. With most household appliances drawing under 2.5 kW, the Tiggo’s intelligent power management lets adventure seekers stay plugged in without compromising the moment.
A Vision for Modern Mobility
Chery’s latest hybrid offering isn’t just about high efficiency or head-turning range stats. It represents a broader vision: a smarter, more adaptable, and purpose-built mobility solution for the realities of South African life. Whether it’s navigating Johannesburg’s daily gridlock, venturing into the Drakensberg, or simply looking for a more cost-effective school-run solution, the Tiggo CSH range delivers.
With the Tiggo 7 CSH already on sale and the Tiggo 9 CSH poised to enter the market imminently, Chery is positioning itself not just as a competitor in the hybrid space — but as a potential segment leader.
