Chery’s iCaur brand says its extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) should be simpler and less expensive to repair than plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). The claim comes as iCaur prepares to enter Australia, where its first confirmed model is the V25 SUV, due in early 2027. The comments were made by iCaur International CEO Ronna Luo to Australian media during a visit to China.
In iCaur’s series-hybrid system, electric motors turn the wheels while a petrol engine generates electricity; the engine has no mechanical link to the wheels. Luo said separating those functions makes the systems easier to service. However, iCaur did not provide repair bills, maintenance prices or reliability data to demonstrate a cost advantage. Luo said the company had taken inspiration from the Toyota Prado’s usability and repairability, and aimed to avoid unnecessarily complicated vehicles. CTO Ma Yongdong described the setup as suited to electric driving on shorter urban trips, with engine-generated power for longer journeys.
The Australian V25 will be a mid-size SUV with a choice of battery-electric or EREV powertrains. Overseas, it measures 4636mm long, 1920mm wide and 1855mm tall, with a 2820mm wheelbase; local specifications and the Australian lineup have not yet been announced. The model is broadly RAV4-sized. EREVs remain less common in Australia than PHEVs: Leapmotor sells range-extender versions of the B10 and C10, while Forthing also offers an EREV SUV. iCaur’s overseas range includes the electric V23 and EREV V27, neither confirmed for Australia.