Chery formally introduced its all-new Himla pickup range on April 23 at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, signalling a major push into the global truck market.
The series — built around three strategic pillars of a comprehensive model line-up, electrification and intelligent connectivity — comprises compact, mid-size and full-size variants offered with petrol, diesel and pure-electric powertrains.
Deputy general manager Zhu Shaodong said the Himla name reflects “reverence for mountain peaks and the spirit of conquest” and underpins Chery’s aim to blend lifestyle appeal with traditional utility. He noted that the series leverages 28 years of Chery’s engineering expertise and first-mover advantages in new-energy technology, while intelligent systems help redefine pickup usage across global markets.
The debut coincided with the launch of Chery’s Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid (CSH) flagship, underscoring the automaker’s commitment to hybrid and electric mobility.
The Himla platform incorporates Chery’s proprietary high-strength body structure, advanced driver-assistance systems and battery-safety technologies, meeting Global Five-Star Safety standards to ensure occupant protection in diverse conditions.
Chery projects that the worldwide pickup sector will sustain growth from 5.67 million units in 2025 to more than 6.3 million by 2030, driven by rising demand for electrification, smart features and specialised applications.
In response, the Himla line is designed for regional adaptation — off-road enhancements for the Middle East, cargo-optimised variants for Latin America and fully electrified models for Europe — under a one-region, one-strategy approach.
Backed by Chery’s global network of over 1,700 overseas dealerships and localized research, manufacturing and sales operations, the company expects rapid market entry and consumer acceptance.
Chery’s “technology export + market cultivation + localised operations” model aims to deliver tailored solutions that build brand trust and accelerate uptake.
The Himla launch marks a strategic shift from Chery’s roots in core engine and transmission development towards a broader focus on battery cell technology, artificial intelligence and software.
It is designed to accelerate the transformation of pickups from purely work-oriented vehicles into premium, passenger-centric platforms.
Chery asserts that Himla will reshape the pickup value chain by promoting four key trends: passenger comfort, intelligent connectivity, premium positioning and new-energy adoption.
The series will begin customer deliveries in select markets later this year, with further global roll-outs scheduled through 2026.
