Chery is considering partnerships with US automakers as it looks for a route into the American market, according to international executive vice-president Charlie Zhang in comments to Reuters. Zhang did not specify what form such cooperation might take. Chery has ranked as China’s leading vehicle exporter for 23 consecutive years, the report says.
Zhang said the company believes it can develop vehicles without Chinese hardware or software, addressing sensitivities in the United States over national security and data. Chery International president Zhang Guibing had also said in May that the company wanted to sell cars in the US when conditions became suitable, citing the size of the market.
The company is preparing to enter Canada in 2027, but the US presents significant obstacles for Chinese carmakers. The report points to a 100% tariff, data-security rules, and proposals to prohibit automakers with more than 15% Chinese ownership—or Chinese carmakers altogether. It also notes that the Trump administration recently criticized Ford over its dealings with Chinese companies CATL, Geely and BYD. Chery has not announced a US launch date or detailed a partnership plan.