Chery Auto is set to unveil its latest and most ambitious SUV, the iCAR V27, during a global premiere on August 1 in Dubai. This high-profile event will also mark the international debut of the iCAUR brand name, which will be used outside China to avoid trademark conflicts with Apple, which holds the rights to the “iCar” name in overseas markets. The rebranding reflects Chery’s strategy to expand its electric vehicle offerings globally while carefully navigating international branding and legal considerations.
The Dubai event will not only showcase the V27, but also feature two additional models under the iCAR lineup: the iCAR V23, a compact SUV, and the iCAR 03, a crossover model. However, the spotlight will clearly be on the iCAR V27, which serves as the flagship of the series and represents the brand’s most sophisticated and premium offering to date.
Measuring close to five meters in length, the V27 is a full-sized SUV equipped with a range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) powertrain. This system combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric drive, allowing the vehicle to offer both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The AWD variant is especially powerful, with an impressive 335 kW peak output and a CLTC-rated all-electric driving range of up to 200 kilometers. This hybrid setup aims to strike a balance between performance, efficiency, and extended driving range—making it ideal for long-distance or off-road travel.
Design-wise, the iCAR V27 takes cues from its smaller sibling, the iCAR V23, but adopts a more rugged and imposing appearance. Its boxy silhouette is paired with standout features such as square headlights with circular inner lighting elements, a multi-slat front grille, vertically stacked tail lights, a roof spoiler, and a side-opening tailgate. One of its most distinctive touches is a decorative “rear backpack” accessory, evoking the image of classic off-road adventure vehicles. These styling elements collectively give the V27 a bold, commanding presence, clearly targeting consumers who prefer a strong off-road aesthetic.
Adding to its technological edge, the V27 is expected to integrate cutting-edge lidar technology from Hesai, a major supplier of high-resolution lidar sensors. Hesai confirmed in April that it secured a production contract with iCAR, and the V27 is likely to be among the first vehicles to feature the ATX ultra-HD long-range lidar system. These sensors will support advanced driver assistance capabilities, with lidar-equipped production models anticipated by Q4 of 2025.
For the domestic Chinese market, the iCAR V27 will be positioned in the 200,000 to 250,000 yuan price range, which equates to approximately $27,800 to $34,700 USD. With plans to begin production by the end of the year, the model is designed to meet China’s growing appetite for new energy SUVs with off-road capabilities, combining innovation, rugged design, and advanced technology.