2023 PEVS: Chery Philippines unveils the Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV and eQ1, eQ7 EVs

Chery Auto Philippines previewed two new electric vehicles (EV) and a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) at the 2023 Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit (PEVS).

While no official prices were revealed at the event, the automaker mentioned a few key features that might entice interested customers to make a reservation once they officially launch.

The automotive brand is going green and addressing the increasing demand for cleaner vehicles that don't rely on fossil fuels as gas and diesel prices steadily increase.

Cherry Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV

The automaker kicked things off with the new Chery Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV.

It looks largely the same as the standard, mild-hybrid version of the 5-seater crossover, but with a few changes to the exterior.

These include a facelift that makes the vehicle look similar to its bigger brother, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+, which we have already reviewed.

It likewise gets a new grille design with silver accents that extend under the LED headlights, a revised bumper that relocates the daytime running lights to the lower half of the car and more aerodynamic wheels that give it an EV-like look.

Aside from the updated design, the Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV gets the same powerplant as its bigger brother, which means it now has a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine that is mated to two electric motors.

This has a total output of 326 PS and 545 Nm of torque, which makes it one quick car that can easily light up its front tires.

On the inside, however, the 7 Pro PHEV still looks the same with premium materials, but with two new large displays: an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Chery has also updated the sound system, giving it an 8-speaker Sony unit.

Chery eQ1

The second vehicle that Chery Auto Philippines previewed at the event was the Chery eQ1 EV, which takes the form of a small hatchback with 2+2 seating.

It measures 3,200 mm long, 1,670 mm wide, 1,550 mm tall and has a 2,150 mm wheelbase.

Despite its small size, the eQ1 is well-equipped as it comes with power-adjustable front seats, a wireless phone charger and a 10-inch infotainment system. As it was a preview event, we aren’t sure if the small EV will come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

As for power, it has a 35-kWh battery pack and an electric motor that pushes out 75 PS and 150 Nm of torque. It is equipped with a Type 2/CCS port, which allows you to fast-charge the vehicle. 

Regarding its range, you can expect to get around 281 km on a full charge.

Chery eQ7

The other EV previewed at the event was the Chery eQ7, a 5-seater crossover with styling similar to the Jetour Dashing, but with a different grille.

There is no need to worry, though, as Jetour is one of three brands under the Chery Holding group, which is why they can share similar designs.

That being said, the new EV still looks sharp and sleek with its thin LED headlights. Chery classifies it as a compact SUV, measuring 4,675 mm long, 1,910 mm wide, 1,660 mm tall and with a wheelbase of 2,830 mm for an excellent amount of room in the back for the second-row passengers. 

One feature we must highlight with the car is the active grille shutters, giving it a more aerodynamic front profile at higher speeds. 

As an EV, it has a 67.12-kWh battery pack that powers an electric motor that produces 211 PS and 285 Nm of torque. It has a range of about 512 km and has a Type 2/CCS charging port, which lets you fast-charge the car. 

The compact SUV EV is well-equipped, with two 12.3-inch screens for your instrument cluster and the infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charger, are available for the car.

The eQ7 is also safe as it comes with advanced driver aids, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, intelligent high beam control, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and blind spot detection. 

If you want to see the cars in the metal, the 2023 Philippine Electric Vehicle Summit runs from Oct. 19 to 21, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. 

Do these electrified Chery models entice you to get into the EV lifestyle?

Did you enjoy this story? Give it five stars now below!