Brief
Chery South Africa names its first hybrid bakkie ‘Grootman’
The name, chosen by South Africans, reflects respect and responsibility and will debut in the first quarter of 2027.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Chery South Africa announced that its first hybrid bakkie will be called Grootman, a name selected by local consumers and derived from the Afrikaans word for “big man”. The vehicle is slated for launch in the first quarter of 2027.
What happened
The new model pairs a 2.5‑litre turbo‑diesel engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 350 kW and 800 Nm. It offers a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg and an electric‑only range of about 100 km (NEDC). The load box measures 1,560 mm long, 1,560 mm wide and 500 mm high, with a ground clearance of at least 230 mm when fully loaded. Vehicle‑to‑Load capability will let the bakkie power external tools and camping equipment.
What was said
Jay Jay Botes, general manager for Chery South Africa, said the company wanted local consumers to shape the bakkie’s identity, adding, “Grootman is a word people use with respect, often for someone who has worked hard to get where they are and can be counted on.”
Key facts
- Chery South Africa's first hybrid bakkie is named Grootman. (bizcommunity.com)
- The bakkie combines a 2.5‑litre turbo‑diesel engine with electric power, outputting 350 kW and 800 Nm. (bizcommunity.com)
- Launch is planned for the first quarter of 2027. (bizcommunity.com)
- It can tow up to 3,500 kg and has an electric‑only range of up to 100 km (NEDC). (bizcommunity.com)
- Jay Jay Botes is the general manager for Chery South Africa. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Chery SA reveals the name South Africans chose for its first bakkie”
