- Jetour will localize vehicle production in South Africa by 2027 using Chery’s Rosslyn plant.
- Chery aims to produce 50000 vehicles annually while expanding employment and hybrid offerings.
Jetour is preparing to localize its vehicle production in South Africa starting in 2027, marking a significant step in its regional expansion strategy. The announcement was made by Jetour International’s leadership during Auto China 2026, confirming that selected models will be assembled locally to strengthen market presence and reduce dependency on imports. This move aligns with broader industry trends where global automakers are shifting toward localized manufacturing to enhance supply chain resilience and cost competitiveness in emerging markets.
Chery Strengthens Manufacturing Base in South Africa
The development is closely tied to Chery’s acquisition of the Rosslyn manufacturing plant from Nissan, a strategic move that transforms its operations in South Africa from import-driven to locally integrated production. This transition enables Chery to scale operations significantly, with a planned annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles by mid-2027. Additionally, the expansion is expected to generate over 3,000 jobs, contributing to industrial growth and economic development in the region.
Production and Employment Targets at Rosslyn Plant
Chery’s operational roadmap for the Rosslyn facility outlines a phased scale-up in production capacity alongside workforce expansion. The localization strategy not only reduces logistics costs but also enhances responsiveness to local market demands. The initiative reflects a long-term commitment to establishing a sustainable automotive manufacturing ecosystem in South Africa.
Rosslyn Plant Production and Employment Plan
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Annual Production Capacity | 50,000 Vehicles |
| Job Creation | 3,000+ Jobs |
| Operational Timeline | By Mid-2027 |
Jetour Expands Product Portfolio with Hybrid Models
Jetour has rapidly expanded its presence in South Africa since entering the market, launching the T-Series lineup in October 2025. Within just 18 months, the company introduced four gasoline-powered models alongside two plug-in hybrid variants, the T1 and T2 iDM. These hybrid models reflect the brand’s commitment to electrification and evolving consumer preferences toward fuel-efficient and low-emission vehicles.
Future Roadmap and Market Strategy
Looking ahead, Jetour plans to continue expanding its product lineup with updated models and new launches tailored for the South African market. The localization of production is expected to support faster product rollouts, improved pricing competitiveness, and stronger aftersales support. By combining Chery’s manufacturing capabilities with Jetour’s growing portfolio, the companies aim to establish a robust foothold in the region’s passenger vehicle segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Jetour start local production in South Africa?
Jetour plans to begin local vehicle production in South Africa from 2027, using Chery’s Rosslyn manufacturing facility. This move is part of a broader localization strategy aimed at strengthening market presence and reducing import dependence. By producing vehicles locally, Jetour can improve supply chain efficiency, lower costs, and respond more quickly to regional demand while supporting the country’s automotive manufacturing ecosystem.
What is Chery’s production target at the Rosslyn plant?
Chery aims to achieve an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles at the Rosslyn plant by mid-2027. The expansion is expected to create over 3,000 jobs, contributing significantly to local economic development. This strategic investment marks a shift from import-based operations to localized manufacturing, enabling Chery to strengthen its presence in South Africa while supporting industrial growth and supply chain localization.
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