Latest news with #O&J
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Omoda C5 X Series doesn't just marks the spot, it hits the spot
New crossover SUV models swap out much-criticised CVT for dual-clutch transmission. Opinions vary over every aspect of Chinese carmaker from manufacturing to after sales backup. Except for one thing. The Chinese learn damn fast and apply what they've learned in no time. The Omoda C5 is just another case on point. The crossover SUV has been the cornerstone of Chery-owned Omoda & Jaecoo's local success since its debut just over two years ago. During this time, O&J twice introduced a lower-priced entry-level model to the C5 range. And more recently, two X Series models have joined the range below the S variants. These offer dual-clutch transmission (DCT) as an alternative to the much-criticised CVT gearbox. At a reduced price nogal. Omoda C5 X Series arrives The Omoda C5 Lux X DCT and Elegance X DCT have replaced the standard Lux CVT and Elegance CVT models. At R425 900, the Lux X DCT is R52 000 cheaper than before and the Elegance X DCT R42 000 less at R465 900. The Citizen Motoring recently sampled the Omoda C5 in Elegance X DCT guise. Lowering pricing usually goes with cutting some fat, but in this case, O&J actually found a way of adding a whole lot. These come under the skin, styling, space, spec and after sales backup. Apart from the gearbox upgrade, the X Series also features hardware enhancements in the form of improved brake pedal response and replacing of the torsion beam rear suspension with a multi-link setup. Improved looks The front end, which futuristic styling helped the Omoda C5 make a grande local entrance in 2023, now features a redesigned matrix grille and headlights and new bumper. The LED daytime running lights motif is also more in line with its bigger C9 sibling. No changes were made to the rear, while we thought new 17-inch black alloy wheels adds to C5 X Series' overall appeal. Inside, the materials on the doors have been upgraded, along with the addition of a more powerful 50-watt wireless charger. These features alongside the carried-over set of goodies which includes dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Hello Chery voice recognition system. The comprehensive set of safety features also stay unchanged. The Omoda C5 Elegance X rides on 17-inch black alloy wheels. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe Designers have also somehow managed to eek out more boot space in a structure featuring the same architecture. It has gone up from 378 litre to a very respectable 442 litres. Omoda C5 X sticks to familiar mill The service plan, which is standard alongside a five-year/150 000km warranty and 10-year/one-million km engine warranty for the first owner, has been upgraded. It goes from a two-year/30 000km plan to a five-year/70 000km contract. ALSO READ: Omoda C5 range adjusted again to include new X Series pair Besides all these valuable additions, the real hardcore deal breaker for Omoda C5 X Series – besides its price – is the six-speed DCT gearbox. Like the CVT, it is mated to a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine which sends 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque to the front wheels. The drive mode selector also now include Normal mode alongside the Eco and Sport modes. While a DCT box over a CVT must be regarded as an upgrade all day every day, is it by no means perfect. Our biggest gripe with it the shuddering when coming to a stop. The Omoda C5 Elegance X features two 10.25-inch digital screens. Picture: Jaco van der Merwe Slow to react But to be fair to the box, it is not solely to blame for drivetrain annoyances. Loads of low-down turbo lag and typical Chinese throttle calibration issues do not help its cause. A much-delayed response during acceleration from a standstill, followed by too much power, is all to familiar. And that is sadly something that no driving mode software or gearbox mechanism can fix. ALSO READ: Omoda C5's price drops below R350 000 with new Street variant Omoda claims the DCT will sip 6.9 litres per 100km compared to the CVT's 7.4L/100km. But as we've seen so many times with this mill in various models regardless of transmission, our consumption just dipped under 10L/100km after a week of city traffic. All in all, the Omoda C5 Elegance X DCT is a very appealing package at a very competitive price. Even if your heart isn't completely sold because of the drivetrain issues, your head is likely to overrule it taking into account what is on the table.
TimesLIVE
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
What's behind the rise of Chinese vehicles in South Africa?
Amid rising living costs, South Africans are increasingly exploring more affordable vehicle options, with established and emerging carmakers responding to the demand differently. Several Chinese marques have entered the fray in recent years, drawing attention with extensive standard equipment lists, stylish designs and competitive pricing. However, questions around after sales support, parts availability and warranty coverage remain, particularly for those buying into relatively new brands. The typical vehicle warranty in South Africa is around five years/100,000km, though this can vary significantly depending on the vehicle segment and manufacturer. Some best-sellers, however, offer shorter coverage. Despite its high price point, the Volkswagen Polo comes with a three-year/120,000km warranty. Chinese brands have responded by offering more extensive coverage, with warranties reaching up to seven years or 200,000km. Brands such as Omoda & Jaecoo (O&J), Chery and Haval have rapidly expanded their presence, each seeking to capture a market share with competitive pricing and longer warranties. The entry-level Omoda C5 Style comes with a five-year/150,000km warranty, while the range-topping C9 offers a seven-year/200,000km warranty coverage. Similarly, BAIC's X55 lineup receives a five-year/150,000km warranty, though the model's service plan is optional. The approach has found a market among buyers, many of whom have long valued the extensive dealer networks of more established brands. Ford, Volkswagen and Toyota have long thrived in South Africa partly because of their wide-reaching dealer and service networks. Driving a Toyota through the more remote parts of the country rarely sparks concerns about breakdowns, given the likelihood of finding a nearby dealership. Chinese brands have made strides in building local networks, but some consumers consider the convenience of well-established service networks when choosing a vehicle. In April alone, 4,880 Chinese passenger cars were sold in South Africa, according to Naamsa. To put this into perspective, the figure marks a notable increase compared to six months before, when Chinese vehicle sales totalled 4,372 units. Image: Supplied When O&J entered the market in 2023, they had around 40 dealerships in South Africa. That number has grown to 50 service centres, with plans to grow to 64 in the coming years. While not as expansive as brands such as Toyota and Volkswagen, several Chinese brands have surpassed European luxury brands in terms of dealership footprint, specially as some are reducing their network due to challenges. Shannon Gahagan, national marketing manager for O&J South Africa, noted the growing service network. 'Our service network spans urban and rural areas, from Lydenburg and Ermelo to East London and Cape Town, and neighbouring countries such as Eswatini, Namibia and Botswana. While routine servicing is typically completed within the same day, mobile service options remain limited, depending on dealer policies and vehicle location,' she said. Parts availability is a critical factor for newer brands. O&J go through a daily analysis process that helps maintain a 98.4% fill rate for common spare parts, with a long-term goal of surpassing 99%. If a required part isn't in stock, air freight is used to minimise delays, delivering components within 15 to 20 days. Standard top-up shipments by sea can take up to 90 days to arrive. Ultimately the brand aims to hold stock locally for all components used in vehicle assembly, regardless of how frequently they're needed. Image: Supplied Early reliability data suggests some Chinese brands have kept warranty claims relatively low, which could build confidence over time. Gahagan noted O&J has a burn rate of around R140 per vehicle annually, lower than some established competitors, such as Hyundai, which reported approximately R380 per vehicle in September last year. In practical terms, this means fewer defect claims and fewer workshop visits. The complaint ratio for the marque's vehicles has yet to reach 0.5% of their car park, standing at only 0.3% or around 10,000 vehicles. The rise of Chinese car brands in South Africa reflects a growing shift toward more affordable vehicles without sacrificing key features. While after sales support and parts availability remain concerns, many brands are actively addressing the gaps with growing dealer networks and strong warranties. Chinese carmakers have made progress in establishing support infrastructure and showcasing reliability, closing the gap with more established brands from Europe, Japan, or Korea. However, as the market continues to evolve, long-term success will depend on maintaining the momentum while addressing the unique needs of local drivers.
Web Release
03-05-2025
- Automotive
- Web Release
OMODA & JAECOO Deepens Commitment to UAE Market with Dubai as Core Innovation Hub
By Editor_wr Last updated May 2, 2025 OMODA & JAECOO, the next-generation mobility brand redefining automotive innovation, announced bold new strategic developments for the UAE market. In a recent interview, Shawn Xu, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO Automobile International, outlined the brand's ambitious plans to position Dubai as a pivotal global hub for innovation, new media, and customer experience excellence. 'As one of the world's most dynamic and inclusive cities, Dubai offers unparalleled advantages in brand communication, market expansion, and resource integration,' said Xu. 'We are proud to establish Dubai not just as our Middle East headquarters but as a cornerstone of OMODA & JAECOO's global vision.' Under this strategic framework, O&J will accelerate its deployment of cutting-edge models, including the highly anticipated iCar series and the all-new J5, catering to the region's growing demand for intelligent, diverse mobility solutions. Complementing its product expansion, O&J is significantly enhancing its regional service capabilities. A state-of-the-art Middle East spare parts warehouse has already been operationalized, streamlining supply chain efficiency and dramatically reducing delivery times. Furthermore, the brand is rapidly advancing its localized service network, ensuring faster, more precise, and customer-centric experiences across every touchpoint. Xu emphasized, 'Looking ahead, OMODA & JAECOO will continue to deepen our footprint in the UAE, building a sustainable development model that fuses brand warmth with technological strength. Our goal is to shape a mobility experience that is future-forward, emotionally resonant, and distinctly human.' In addition to market strategy, Xu highlighted the technological edge of O&J's groundbreaking Super Hybrid System—a key differentiator in the brand's product portfolio. 'From the outset, our Super Hybrid System was engineered with real-world user needs in mind: stronger power, longer range, lower fuel consumption, and unmatched driving comfort,' Xu explained. 'It effortlessly handles city acceleration and high-speed overtaking, offers extended range to reduce refueling anxiety, enhances energy efficiency for cost-conscious users, and ensures a smooth, quiet ride for everyday enjoyment.' Designed to meet the evolving expectations of global consumers, O&J's Super Hybrid System exemplifies the brand's commitment to empowering a smarter, greener, and more exhilarating future of mobility. With Dubai's strategic influence as a launchpad, OMODA & JAECOO are set to redefine what modern, intelligent mobility means for the UAE—and the world. Comments are closed.
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
OMODA & JAECOO Deepens Commitment to UAE Market with Dubai as Core Innovation Hub - Middle East Business News and Information
OMODA & JAECOO, the next-generation mobility brand redefining automotive innovation, announced bold new strategic developments for the UAE market. In a recent interview, Shawn Xu, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO Automobile International, outlined the brand's ambitious plans to position Dubai as a pivotal global hub for innovation, new media, and customer experience excellence. 'As one of the world's most dynamic and inclusive cities, Dubai offers unparalleled advantages in brand communication, market expansion, and resource integration,' said Xu. 'We are proud to establish Dubai not just as our Middle East headquarters but as a cornerstone of OMODA & JAECOO's global vision.' Under this strategic framework, O&J will accelerate its deployment of cutting-edge models, including the highly anticipated iCar series and the all-new J5, catering to the region's growing demand for intelligent, diverse mobility solutions. Complementing its product expansion, O&J is significantly enhancing its regional service capabilities. A state-of-the-art Middle East spare parts warehouse has already been operationalized, streamlining supply chain efficiency and dramatically reducing delivery times. Furthermore, the brand is rapidly advancing its localized service network, ensuring faster, more precise, and customer-centric experiences across every touchpoint. Xu emphasized, 'Looking ahead, OMODA & JAECOO will continue to deepen our footprint in the UAE, building a sustainable development model that fuses brand warmth with technological strength. Our goal is to shape a mobility experience that is future-forward, emotionally resonant, and distinctly human.' In addition to market strategy, Xu highlighted the technological edge of O&J's groundbreaking Super Hybrid System—a key differentiator in the brand's product portfolio. 'From the outset, our Super Hybrid System was engineered with real-world user needs in mind: stronger power, longer range, lower fuel consumption, and unmatched driving comfort,' Xu explained. 'It effortlessly handles city acceleration and high-speed overtaking, offers extended range to reduce refueling anxiety, enhances energy efficiency for cost-conscious users, and ensures a smooth, quiet ride for everyday enjoyment.' Designed to meet the evolving expectations of global consumers, O&J's Super Hybrid System exemplifies the brand's commitment to empowering a smarter, greener, and more exhilarating future of mobility. With Dubai's strategic influence as a launchpad, OMODA & JAECOO are set to redefine what modern, intelligent mobility means for the UAE—and the world. About OMODA & JAECOO: OMODA & JAECOO is an innovative automobile brand redefining mobility through cutting-edge design, smart technology, and sustainable solutions. Backed by Chery, the largest Chinese automotive producer, the brand is expanding rapidly across 34 global markets, including the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa (MEA), reinforcing its vision of 'New Products + New Technology + New Ecosystem'. OMODA & JAECOO is committed to revolutionizing urban and off-road travel, delivering vehicles that integrate futuristic technology, AI-driven connectivity, and next-generation safety features. With the UAE serving as a key hub under its global strategy, the brand is setting new industry benchmarks in customer service, innovation, and sustainable mobility. As part of its long-term commitment, OMODA & JAECOO has established a 12,000 sqm spare parts distribution center in JAFZA, the largest Chinese automotive parts hub in the Middle East. This facility enhances regional logistics and aftersales support, ensuring a 95% fulfilment rate and 24-hour VOR (Vehicle Off-Road) part supply efficiency. Additionally, through its strategic partnership with Maersk, OMODA & JAECOO have further strengthened their logistics and aftersales operations in the UAE, ensuring 100% spare parts availability and rapid delivery within 24 and 48 hours. In the UAE, Autorun, MAHY Khoory Automotive and Galadari are the official distributors of OMODA & JAECOO, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates respective, thus ensuring seamless market entry and premium customer experience. The brand's latest lineup, including the OMODA C5, JAECOO J7, and JAECOO J8, embodies sustainable performance, intelligent mobility, and futuristic automotive innovation. With a global vision to lead the future of mobility, OMODA & JAECOO is dedicated to shaping an eco-friendly, tech-integrated, and customer-centric automotive experience. OMODA & JAECOO are sub-brands designed to meet evolving global automotive demands. OMODA, a fashionable cross-border series, focuses on the new generation of LOHAS with future-driven aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. On the other hand, JAECOO, a fearless off-road series, caters to urban elites, breaking barriers in the global off-road market with refined styling and outstanding performance.
Zawya
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
OMODA & JAECOO deepens commitment to UAE Market with Dubai as core innovation Hub
Dubai, UAE: OMODA & JAECOO, the next-generation mobility brand redefining automotive innovation, announced bold new strategic developments for the UAE market. In a recent interview, Shawn Xu, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO Automobile International, outlined the brand's ambitious plans to position Dubai as a pivotal global hub for innovation, new media, and customer experience excellence. "As one of the world's most dynamic and inclusive cities, Dubai offers unparalleled advantages in brand communication, market expansion, and resource integration," said Xu. "We are proud to establish Dubai not just as our Middle East headquarters but as a cornerstone of OMODA & JAECOO's global vision." Under this strategic framework, O&J will accelerate its deployment of cutting-edge models, including the highly anticipated iCar series and the all-new J5, catering to the region's growing demand for intelligent, diverse mobility solutions. Complementing its product expansion, O&J is significantly enhancing its regional service capabilities. A state-of-the-art Middle East spare parts warehouse has already been operationalized, streamlining supply chain efficiency and dramatically reducing delivery times. Furthermore, the brand is rapidly advancing its localized service network, ensuring faster, more precise, and customer-centric experiences across every touchpoint. Xu emphasized, "Looking ahead, OMODA & JAECOO will continue to deepen our footprint in the UAE, building a sustainable development model that fuses brand warmth with technological strength. Our goal is to shape a mobility experience that is future-forward, emotionally resonant, and distinctly human." In addition to market strategy, Xu highlighted the technological edge of O&J's groundbreaking Super Hybrid System—a key differentiator in the brand's product portfolio. "From the outset, our Super Hybrid System was engineered with real-world user needs in mind: stronger power, longer range, lower fuel consumption, and unmatched driving comfort," Xu explained. "It effortlessly handles city acceleration and high-speed overtaking, offers extended range to reduce refueling anxiety, enhances energy efficiency for cost-conscious users, and ensures a smooth, quiet ride for everyday enjoyment." Designed to meet the evolving expectations of global consumers, O&J's Super Hybrid System exemplifies the brand's commitment to empowering a smarter, greener, and more exhilarating future of mobility. With Dubai's strategic influence as a launchpad, OMODA & JAECOO are set to redefine what modern, intelligent mobility means for the UAE—and the world. About OMODA & JAECOO OMODA & JAECOO is an innovative automobile brand redefining mobility through cutting-edge design, smart technology, and sustainable solutions. Backed by Chery, the largest Chinese automotive producer, the brand is expanding rapidly across 34 global markets, including the Middle East, Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa (MEA), reinforcing its vision of 'New Products + New Technology + New Ecosystem'. OMODA & JAECOO is committed to revolutionizing urban and off-road travel, delivering vehicles that integrate futuristic technology, AI-driven connectivity, and next-generation safety features. With the UAE serving as a key hub under its global strategy, the brand is setting new industry benchmarks in customer service, innovation, and sustainable mobility. As part of its long-term commitment, OMODA & JAECOO has established a 12,000 sqm spare parts distribution center in JAFZA, the largest Chinese automotive parts hub in the Middle East. This facility enhances regional logistics and aftersales support, ensuring a 95% fulfilment rate and 24-hour VOR (Vehicle Off-Road) part supply efficiency. Additionally, through its strategic partnership with Maersk, OMODA & JAECOO have further strengthened their logistics and aftersales operations in the UAE, ensuring 100% spare parts availability and rapid delivery within 24 and 48 hours. In the UAE, Autorun, MAHY Khoory Automotive and Galadari are the official distributors of OMODA & JAECOO, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates respective, thus ensuring seamless market entry and premium customer experience. The brand's latest lineup, including the OMODA C5, JAECOO J7, and JAECOO J8, embodies sustainable performance, intelligent mobility, and futuristic automotive innovation. With a global vision to lead the future of mobility, OMODA & JAECOO is dedicated to shaping an eco-friendly, tech-integrated, and customer-centric automotive experience. OMODA & JAECOO are sub-brands designed to meet evolving global automotive demands. OMODA, a fashionable cross-border series, focuses on the new generation of LOHAS with future-driven aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. On the other hand, JAECOO, a fearless off-road series, caters to urban elites, breaking barriers in the global off-road market with refined styling and outstanding performance. For more information, please visit .
