Tata Motors’ JV partner in China for JLR, Chery Automobiles to roll-out eQ5 electric SUV based on all-new aluminium platform

Tata Motors’ joint venture partner in China, Chery Automobiles, that has been manufacturing Jaguar Land Rover products for the Chinese market, is now ready to roll-out its first fully electric SUV, the eQ5, in its home country. The compact electric crossover is built on Chery’s all-new aluminium-intensive lightweight platform that will procreate a range of EVs soon.

The Chery eQ5 fully electric SUV is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) that is available in two states of tune – 163 hp and 177 hp. The motor is supported by a lithium-ion battery pack which claimed to deliver a range of 510 km under NEDC. The battery is claimed to have an impressive energy density of 160.1 Wh/kg.

The crossover’s monocoque or the structural skin is composed of 93% of aluminium-magnesium alloy which results in 40% weight reduction compared to traditional steel frames. The frame weighs just 95 kg due to this feature; the eQ5 weighs 1,760 kg which is impressive given the size of its battery pack.

As per our report from the local market, the launch is expected in the coming weeks. The crossover looks nothing like its IC-engine stable-mates. The front end design with its high-mounted LED headlamps and massive air-intakes reminds us of the Porsche SUVs. The profile is characterized by a tight-fitting roof, muscular rear haunch and curvy sheet metal surfaces. Sleek LED tail-lights, prominent black finished pseudo-air-intakes and silver diffuser round off the exterior design.

The Chery eQ5 sports a modern dual-tone interior with a flat-bottomed steering wheel, fully digital colour instrument console and of course, a touchscreen infotainment system. Salient features include AI voice recognition, air purification system, 5G connectivity, over-the-air (OTA) updates and a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features.

Chery is expected to export the eQ5 to several international markets in Europe and Asia. The Indian auto market has been witnessing increased interest from the Chinese OEMs of late. Chery could also be planning to take a shot at our lucrative market in the future.

Tata Motors is looking at a partnership with Chery to achieve cost-cutting and technology sharing, especially when it comes to electric vehicles. If the deal attains success, the Chinese automaker’s modern EV powertrain technology and lightweight architecture could benefit future Tata green vehicles.