Officially joining the growing group of Chinese brands entering the global market, OMODA and JAECOO (collectively known as O & J) made their official debut at the brands’ Global Conference last April 20, 2023, in Wuhu, Anhui, China. The Omoda 5 (turbo), the Omoda 5 EV, and the JAECOO 7 that were also unveiled at the Auto Shanghai motor show last month, are expected to be available in the country by year-end. The O & J brands are under Chery Automotive Group together with Arrizo, Exceed, and Tiggo brands, as well as Jetour that is under the Chery Commercial Vehicle unit.
Being young brands, the O & J are targeting the new generation of the young, monied middle class with the nameplates they are developing. While OMODA is dedicated to the youthful and trendy driver, JAECOO, will focus on upscale, off-road vehicles specifically designed for urban elites with extraordinary style.
Initial offerings
The Omoda5 is the brand’s first global car that integrates the characteristics of vehicles from different categories: the space of an MPV, the chassis of an SUV, and the handling and comfort of a sedan. The Omoda5 has a crossover form factor with futuristic styling. The turbo (ICE) version they are bringing in will be powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission. This version is rated to produce 146hp and 230Nm of torque @ 1,750 to 4,500 rpm. Inside, OMODA5 will be equipped with dual 10.25-inch screens, a 4.0 human-machine interface system, and an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) which has 16 safe driving assistance functions and boasts of a comprehensive intelligent technology system.
Meanwhile, as revealed at Auto Shanghai, the Omoda5 EV will share its ICE version’s futuristic crossover exterior but will feature significantly different styling, particularly in its front grille. The OMODA5 EV will have a 165kW electric motor that will be powered by a 61kWh battery that promises a 450km range on a single charge.
The JAECOO7 will have the size, ground clearance, and performance of a crossover SUV while boasting of technology and comfort found in luxury-scale brands. The first variant to be launched will have a 1.6 turbocharged engine with 290 NM of torque.
Inside, the JAECOO 7 will feature a plush interior with ambient lighting, digital gauges, and a touchscreen vertical center console (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) mated to a premium 8-speaker setup. Additional tech includes wireless phone charging, 4 USB ports with fast charging, armrests with dampener, power-adjustable driver seat, power moonroof, all-auto power windows, and keyless entry. Safety features will include a 540-degree camera which includes the vehicles blind spots which include the bottom of the vehicle, as well as the full ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) suite which includes ABS, Electronic Brake Assist, Traction Control, Hill Assist, and 21-function ADAS safety system).
“While the first variant of the Jaecoo 7 to be launched will be petrol powered, please expect the Jaecoo brand to thrust towards new energy in the near future. We have exciting new energy models coming up from 2024 onwards that are sure to excite the Philippine Market,” said Uzzi Asuncion, the Philippines’ Brand Manager for Omoda and Jaecoo.
The OMODA & JAECOO are set to launch in Q4 of 2023. They are targeting to open 8 showrooms in key cities in the country by the end of the year, with further expansion in the pipeline for 2024.
For more information about J& O, visit OMODA’s and JAECOO’s Facebook pages.