Chinese electric vehicle brand iCAUR has unveiled ambitious plans for its South African market debut, announcing a strategic dealership rollout designed to establish immediate nationwide presence.
The new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer will launch with an initial network of 20 dealerships, with further expansion planned as demand and market opportunities evolve over the next 12 to 24 months.
The first phase of the rollout will prioritise establishing a strong national footprint, with dealerships planned across most of South Africa's provinces.
All dealerships will be fully operational before market entry, offering complete sales and after-sales capabilities from day one, says the Chinese manufacturer which is a subsidiary brand founded in 2023 by Chery.
The brand claims it targets younger, tech-savvy consumers with "fun" and "funky" vehicles and will expand Chery's presence in the NEV space. The focus will be on EVs and range extender electric vehicles (REEVs).
Physical dealerships form a central pillar of iCAUR's positioning in South Africa. Rather than traditional showrooms, iCAUR dealerships will incorporate lifestyle elements linked to customer interests such as camping, running, fishing, rock climbing, and gaming.
"Launching the V23 and 03T in May alongside a national dealership footprint allows us to deliver a complete iCAUR experience from the outset," comments Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for iCAUR South Africa.
"Looking ahead, the planned arrival of the 03T REEV towards the end of 2026 reflects our commitment to expanding the range in line with customer expectations and market readiness," she says.
