Jetour, a Chery-owned automotive brand, is gearing up to revolutionize the South African market. With its product lineup set to expand significantly over the next two years, the company has unveiled its first Jetour bakkie under the new Zongheng off-road brand. Dubbed the F700 in its initial reveal, this groundbreaking vehicle will be introduced locally as the Jetour P5 in 2027.
The reveal took place during Chinese New Year celebrations in Beijing on January 22, alongside two SUVs under the Zongheng brand, signaling Jetour’s ambitious plans for hybrid-powered, off-road-capable vehicles.
Jetour Bakkie A New Challenger: Competing with the BYD Shark
Jetour’s P5 is designed to take on industry competitors like the BYD Shark. Scheduled for its Chinese debut in 2024, this Jetour bakkie packs cutting-edge technology and engineering. Its hybrid powertrain combines Jetour’s familiar 2.0 T-GDI turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering a total output of 1,172 kW.
The powertrain, known as the CDM-O system, is paired with a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), optimizing both performance and efficiency. Charging the hybrid system is remarkably quick, with the capability to recharge from 0-80% in just six to ten minutes using a DC rapid charger.
Key Features of the Jetour Bakkie
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 2.0 T-GDI engine with dual electric motors (CDM-O hybrid system). |
| Power Output | Combined 1,172 kW. |
| Transmission | Two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). |
| Charging Time | 0-80% in 6-10 minutes with a rapid DC charger. |
| Target Market | Competes with the BYD Shark in the hybrid bakkie segment. |
| Expected Launch in South Africa | 2027. |
Off-Roading Capabilities and SUV Expansion
Alongside the F700, Jetour also revealed two SUVs under the Zongheng brand—the G700 and G900—highlighting the company’s focus on off-road vehicles.
The Jetour G700 is expected to rival models from Great Wall Motor’s Tank division and BYD’s Fangcheng Bao. It features a robust ladder-frame chassis, air suspension providing a remarkable 350 mm of ground clearance, and seating for six. The Jetour G700 is set to debut in the third quarter of 2024, offering a unique off-road experience with luxury and practicality.
The Jetour G900, however, raises the stakes even further. Designed with a crossover coupé-style rear, a lowered roofline, and futuristic aesthetics, the G900 boasts an innovative range-extending hybrid system. This powertrain combines four electric motors with the 2.0 T-GDI engine, producing a massive 1,200 kW of power.
Perhaps most impressively, the Jetour G900 incorporates “amphibious all-terrain conquering capability.” This feature allows the SUV to float and move on water for up to 40 minutes at a speed of 8.5 km/h, outpacing the BYD YangWang U8 in both speed and duration.
Key Features of the Zongheng SUVs
| Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| G700 | Ladder-frame chassis, 350 mm ground clearance, air suspension, seating for six. |
| G900 | Coupé-style design, 1,200 kW hybrid powertrain, amphibious capability (40 minutes at 8.5 km/h on water). |
Jetour’s South African Growth Strategy
Jetour is positioning itself as a significant player in the South African market by combining advanced hybrid technology with bold off-road capabilities. The P5, G700, and G900 demonstrate the brand’s commitment to innovation and versatility.
In addition to these new models, Jetour is expanding its core lineup locally. By the end of 2024, the brand will introduce Deluxe Pro variants of the Dashing and X70 Plus SUVs. These will be followed by the T2 model, set to launch in 2024, and the T5 and compact T1, expected in 2026.
Conclusion
Jetour’s entry into the hybrid bakkie and SUV segments is a clear statement of its intent to compete at the forefront of automotive innovation. With models like the P5 offering exceptional power, efficiency, and rapid charging, and the G900 setting new standards for amphibious off-road capability, Jetour is poised to captivate a broad audience. For South Africa, the arrival of these vehicles marks a shift toward greener, more versatile options in both urban and rugged environments. As the Zongheng brand takes shape, the future of Jetour looks nothing short of electrifying.
Related article: Jetour Dashing’s Performance Review: Does The Stylish Design Meet Performance Expectations
