Chery, South Korea's KGM step up partnership to co-develop mid-to-large SUVs

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Chinese carmaker Chery and South Korean automaker KGM have taken a significant step forward in their strategic partnership by signing an agreement to jointly develop a new range of mid-to-large SUVs, according to a press release Chery issued on April 3 via its WeChat account.

Under the agreement, the two sides will co-develop a new generation of SUV models based on Chery's global technology platform. The project will span both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and new energy vehicle models, with completion targeted for 2026. This move builds on the strategic partnership established between Chery and KGM in October 2024 and represents a major milestone in their joint efforts.

The two companies aim to accelerate their transformation into global smart mobility players by leveraging complementary strengths and shared resources.

Chery, a leading name in China's automotive industry since its founding in 1997, has expanded its presence to over 100 countries by 2025, earning widespread recognition from global consumers. KGM, South Korea's second-largest automobile group with a history dating back to 1954, is best known for its expertise in off-road and SUV technologies, with several of its models enjoying strong reputations both domestically and in select international markets.

Chery's rapid sales growth in recent years reflects its long-standing commitment to globalization, guided by the principle of "In somewhere, For somewhere," which emphasizes localized integration. At the signing ceremony, Chery Chairman Yin Tongyue stressed that the cooperation goes beyond product development, calling it a deeper fusion of innovation systems. "We are committed to a green, low-carbon approach, promoting localized R&D and manufacturing to support the intelligent transformation of South Korea's auto industry and deliver a superior mobility experience to local consumers," he said.