Chery, China’s top passenger car exporter for the 22nd consecutive year, is officially entering the Romanian market through a partnership agreement with AUTO ITALIA Group, part of the Samelet Group. The distribution agreement will enable the local sale of TIGGO SUV models, starting in the second half of 2025.
With a presence in over 110 countries and regions and more than 15 million global users, of which 4.5 million are outside China, Chery continues its international expansion and will launch its mass-produced TIGGO family models across several European markets later this year, sending a strong message to the world about the technological strength of “Technology-driven Chery”, ready to meet the European regulations and compete directly with traditional automakers.
Chery is strengthening its strategic presence in Europe through a comprehensive technological strategy focused on three major directions: pure electric, hybrid, and internal combustion engines, and remains committed to its original vision of becoming the “global first-choice family brand”. The company will deepen its presence in key areas such as product development, marketing services, and brand building.
Romania becomes a key market in the region for the brand, which has seen consistent growth in recent years, reaching over 2.6 million vehicles sold globally in 2024, a 38% increase compared to the previous year.
“AUTO ITALIA and Samelet Group are honored to be selected by Chery for the import and distribution of the Chery brand in Romania. Our partnership shares a common vision of a customer-centric strategy and can rely on our strong presence, resources, and leadership in the Romanian market to excel in meeting all customer needs in a rapidly evolving automotive world,” said Adrian Narcis Ghiță, CEO AUTO ITALIA Group.
The company will primarily focus on plug-in hybrid models, leveraging the benefits of hybrid systems to provide consumers with competitive features and energy-efficient powertrain options.
„This cooperation with partners from European countries marks a major milestone in Chery’s globalization strategy. Our goal is not just to sell cars in Europe, but to establish deep roots here and build a sustainable business ecosystem with our local partners”, said Zhang Shengshan, Deputy General Manager of Chery International.
In 2025, Chery will prioritize the launch of the fourth-generation TIGGO7 and TIGGO8, both powered by Chery Super Hybrid (CSH). CSH has earned industry accolades such as the “China Heart” Top Ten Engines and Hybrid Systems. After more than two decades of technological iteration, it has redefined hybrid value with three core components: the fifth-generation dedicated hybrid engine, which sets a new energy-saving benchmark with 44.5% thermal efficiency; the stepless super electric hybrid DHT, delivering explosive performance with a 0-100 km/h time of 8.5 seconds; and a high-performance battery pack capable of operating in temperatures from -35C to 60C, supported by 9 working modes. This “high-efficiency, high-performance, high-safety, high-intelligence” technology triangle is making waves in the global market.
The TIGGO7 and TIGGO8 models combine cutting-edge design, intelligent technologies, and high-efficiency powertrains to meet European consumers’ dual expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.
Chery’s European R&D Center in Frankfurt will serve as a strategic foothold for the company’s entry into the European market. The center will play a critical role in aligning Chery’s technologies with European regulatory frameworks and market dynamics, supporting adaptive development and enabling the creation of vehicles that are tailored to meet 100% European standards.