Like many Chinese automakers, Jetour took to the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show to display their latest wares, which include a lineup dominated by rugged-looking SUVs. With a growing presence in South Africa, these are models that could possibly feature in Mzansi in the future.
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The Shanghai Auto Show has grown in popularity over the past few years, with many Chinese automakers commenting that it has become the pinnacle of annual automotive events globally. Amassing over one million visitors over its public and media period, Chery subsidiary Jetour, along with many other Chinese automakers, took to the exhibitor stand to show what the future will hold.
Jetour welcomed over 130 media guests from regions including Africa, the Middle East, South America, and Asia-Pacific to take the opportunity of presenting its new GAIA hybrid off-road platform. This system underpins two of Jetour’s new flagship SUVs, the G700 and G900. Both vehicles boast amphibious capabilities, satellite communication, and even onboard oxygen generation. The G700, in particular, is expected to make its global debut in the UAE before the end of the year.
Visitors to the event had the novel opportunity to drive the Jetour T1, T2 i-DM, and G700 in small test sections. Derived as an off-road explorer, the T1 comprises its boxy proportions with its XWD intelligent four-wheel-drive system underneath. Meanwhile, the T2 i-DM, a hybrid version of the T2 is touted to deliver better fuel efficiency and quieter driving.
Related: Road Test: Jetour X70 Plus 1.5T Deluxe
Jetour adds that the XWD system impressed during demonstrations, especially on a cross-axle test where it redistributed power to maintain traction. The reinforced chassis and adaptive suspension proved capable on steep slopes, further underscoring the brand’s technical progress.
The company also hosted an international media workshop and announced the Jetour Media Alliance (JMA), aimed at building stronger global media connections. This effort supports Jetour’s ambition to expand into more markets, including South Africa, where the brand launched in 2023 with the Dashing and X70 Plus models. More local introductions are planned soon, with the T1 and T2 models earmarked for South Africa as soon as 2025. These will form a part of Jetour’s larger rollout plan, which includes other hybrid vehicles from its Shanhai division. The P5 bakkie could even be on the cards in the coming years, should the Chinese automaker deem South Africa a viable destination for its expanded lineup.
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