Chery Grootman — Chery's First Bakkie, Coming to Chery Midrand
The Chery Grootman is Chery’s first-ever bakkie, and South Africans gave it its name. Due in South Africa in the first quarter of 2027, it pairs a 2.5-litre turbodiesel with electric power for a combined 350 kW and 800 N·m (preliminary), with four-wheel drive, a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity and up to 100 km of electric-only driving.
Register your interest at Chery Midrand and be among the first to hear about pricing, test drives and launch-day stock.
Named by South Africa. Built for South Africa.
Instead of naming its new bakkie in a boardroom, Chery South Africa asked South Africans to name it. More than 20,000 names were submitted, a shortlist went to a public vote, and the winner was Grootman.
Chery’s Chinese heritage brings global technology and engineering to the Grootman. Its name and character were shaped by the people who will drive it — and as Chery is the best-selling Chinese car brand in South Africa, the name fits the bakkie and the brand.
What Does “Grootman” Mean?
“Grootman” comes from Afrikaans and translates directly as “big man”. Across South Africa’s cultures and communities it has become a term of respect for someone with stature — someone who has worked hard, earned their place and can be counted on.
That is the character Chery built into its bakkie: confident, capable and commanding respect. Grootman isn’t defined by income, language or background. It’s about earning your place — for the driver and for the bakkie.
Estimate Combined – 1.1 L/100km
Images: use official Chery SA Grootman imagery only. Specifications and launch timing are subject to confirmation by Chery South Africa.
Chery Grootman Specifications
Hybrid Power and 4x4 Capability
The Grootman sits on a dedicated hybrid platform. A 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel works with electric motors to deliver 350 kW and 800 N·m, driving all four wheels. On electric power alone it can cover up to 100 km (NEDC), enough for most daily commutes without using diesel. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) lets it power tools, appliances and campsite equipment straight from its battery.
Towing, Load Box and Off-Road
With a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity, the Grootman is built for caravans, boats and trailers. Ground clearance is at least 230 mm fully loaded, and the off-road kit includes three locking differentials, Crawl Control and Tight Turn Assist.