Automotive
Chery Showcases Global Vision and Breakthrough Innovations at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show
Chery marked a new era of global expansion and innovation by unveiling a series of groundbreaking models, technologies, and initiatives at three landmark events, namely: the 2025 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (2025 Shanghai Auto Show), the 2025 Chery Global Business Conference, and Chery’s Hybrid Night & Open-Source Initiative Launch. These events reflected Chery’s bold technological evolution and its vision for a sustainable, intelligent, and family-centric mobility future.
Global Debut of HIMLA Pickup Series: Redefining the Pickup Category
At the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Chery launched their brand-new HIMLA Series, its first global pickup lineup, signaling a major milestone in the brand’s global strategy. Inspired by the Himalayas, HIMLA embodies resilience and exploration, offering a full range of compact, mid-size, and full-size pickups with gasoline, diesel, and pure electric powertrains.
Backed by 28 years of engineering expertise, HIMLA is tailored for today’s booming global pickup market, projected to surpass 6.3 million units annually by 2030 (IHS). The series addresses four megatrends – passenger-focused comfort, intelligence, premiumization, and new energy adoption – while incorporating the “Global Five-Star Safety Standard” with intelligent driver-assistance and battery safety technologies.
Chery Super Hybrid (CSH): Driving the Future of Electrified Mobility
Chery’s CSH (Chery Super Hybrid) technology made its public debut in three all-new TIGGO models: TIGGO 7 CSH, TIGGO 8 CSH, and TIGGO 9 CSH. Showcased alongside the CSH Open-Source Initiative, this represents a major leap for Chery from technology follower to global hybrid leader. Underpinned by the proprietary “4H1S” global hybrid standard (high efficiency, high performance, high intelligence, high safety, and strong off-road capabilities), CSH features a next-gen hybrid engine with 46.5% thermal efficiency, DHT230/280 transmissions, and class-leading energy management systems. In dynamic demonstrations, TIGGO 9 CSH and ARRIZO 8 CSH achieved an industry-record 1,400 km range and 4.2L/100km fuel efficiency in charge-depleting mode. Chery also revealed a world-first hybrid engine with over 48% thermal efficiency, further cementing its leadership in green technology.
The CSH Open-Source Initiative: Global Collaboration for Sustainable Mobility
Pioneering industry transparency, Chery officially launched the CSH Open-Source Initiative, offering core hybrid patents and calling for the formation of a global hybrid technology ecosystem. This initiative represents a shift from “product export” to “technology symbiosis,” aiming to foster international collaboration, talent co-development, and technical standard-setting.
With the release of the “Chery Global Hybrid Technology Standard Declaration”, jointly developed with CATARC, Chery is positioning itself at the center of future sustainable mobility.
Boundless Living: Chery Reimagines Family Mobility
In a major lifestyle-focused initiative, Chery unveiled “Boundless Living”, showcasing how versatile space design and CSH V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) technology create immersive travel and living experiences. Four customized TIGGO displays brought family scenarios to life, from mobile workshops and pet-friendly cabins, to V2L-powered camping zones.
TIGGO 8’s 1,930L cargo space, TIGGO 7’s in-vehicle cinema, and advanced features like “Power Reserve” mode highlighted how Chery is delivering energy-efficient, worry-free experiences for modern families.
AiMOGA Robot: From Digital Persona to Real-World Intelligent Assistant
Chery also made headlines with the international debut of its humanoid AiMOGA Robot, now live at a 4S dealership in Kuala Lumpur. Originally conceived as a digital avatar named “Mornine,” AiMOGA has evolved into a fully functional, intelligent service assistant, capable of vehicle walkthroughs, multilingual interaction, and autonomous navigation.
Co-developed with AiMOGA Labs, the robot integrates CheryGPT and DeepSeek AI to bridge automotive and robotics technology, marking Chery’s transformation from intelligent manufacturing to intelligent service.
CHERY FAMILY CARE: A New Benchmark in Global Service

Further emphasizing its commitment to user-centric mobility, Chery launched CHERY FAMILY CARE, a new global service brand built on dual pillars: “Five Heartwarming Cares” (convenience-focused) and “Five Worry-free Cares” (professional assurance). This marks a strategic shift from product globalization to service localization, with 24/7 support, transparent pricing, and a growing international service training network. The brand’s slogan, “Always with You”, reflects Chery’s dedication to holistic, lifelong customer support in over 110 countries.
Looking Ahead: Chery’s Next Chapter
In 2025, Chery will launch 19 hybrid models across HEV, PHEV, and REEV segments, supported by global R&D centers and 16 million users worldwide. Its theme, “Navigating the Future”, was evident across all events, from endurance challenges and platform debuts to collaborative innovation.
“Chery is not just building vehicles. We are redefining lifestyles,” said Zhu Shaodong, Executive Vice President of Chery International. “Through technological breakthroughs and global partnerships, we are making premium mobility more accessible, sustainable, and intelligent.”
From his end, Zaher Sabagh, Director of Chery UAE commented: “Chery has managed to spearhead innovation in the global automotive sector at an accelerated pace over the last 5 years, leveraging a legacy of over 20 years in strategic planning and Research & Development. At Chery UAE, we look ahead with great anticipation, knowing that we will be able to introduce Chery’s global innovations, models and initiatives soon to the UAE market, setting the foundation for a new chapter for the automotive industry in the country, in partnership with AW Rostamani. Our ambitions are sky-high and possibilities are endless: expect Chery to revolutionize the driving journey”.
Automotive
World’s Best Autonomous Racing Teams Push the Limits of Driverless Technology During A2RL Qualifying
Qualification for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) has concluded with a thrilling pole position for reigning champions, TUM. The German team is one of six that have made it through a demanding, multi-stage qualification process to the Grand Final on November 15.
A2RL is a demonstration of cutting-edge autonomous technology, accelerating AI development through competition in extreme conditions. Eleven international teams travelled to Abu Dhabi to qualify for the second season of the world’s most advanced autonomous racing championship.
The competition is designed to push artificial intelligence to its physical limits as the best minds from academic institutions, private companies, and privateer race teams compete on the world stage for a US$2.25 million prize pool.

Record lap times
Further pushing the frontier of driverless technology, history was also made during the week of intensive qualification as teams began to consistently set sub-1-minute lap times on the North Circuit configuration of the Yas Marina track. Italy’s Unimore team, a returning finalist, set an autonomous lap record of 58.87 seconds – seven hundredths of a second faster than the benchmark lap set by a professional human racing driver during data collection laps (59.20 seconds).
The record-setting lap was achieved during Pace Qualification, where all teams completed three separate 15-minute sessions to set their fastest possible times. This was followed by Multi-Car Qualification, four heats of twelve laps, where performance highlights included a spectacular overtake on Unimore from TUM, securing pole position in their pursuit of back-to-back wins.
World First: Six-Car Grand Final
Six teams – TUM, Unimore, Kinetiz, TII Racing, PoliMOVE and Constructor – qualified for the Grand Final on 15th of November 2025 at Yas Marina Circuit. Representing four countries, they will compete in a 24-lap multi-car race, the largest race of its kind and a spectacle like no other. The event will also feature a Silver Race time trial for the remaining five A2RL teams.
This year, former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat returns for the second instalment of the Human vs AI showcase – a demonstration of machine precision versus human instinct and the rapid evolution of AI performance.

Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, commented: “This season, we’re pushing the boundaries of autonomous racing even further and redefining what is possible. From week to week, we are seeing ‘machine’ capabilities rapidly approaching human performance – even surpassing some human benchmark times set during data collection. This week, Unimore has thrown down the gauntlet with a record-breaking lap time.
“Next month, we will witness six formidably competitive teams race for victory. Last year’s A2RL Champion TUM is in pole position, but given the intense competition during qualification, the Grand Final in November is set to be an exhilarating conclusion!”
Ayoub Raji, Co-Lead of Unimore Racing said: “We are proud to have demonstrated that an autonomous race car can deliver close to human capabilities. The competition was fierce, with many teams bringing extensive experience and strong technical resources. Our autonomous stack proved not only to be the fastest but also the safest, skillfully exploiting the kerbs to avoid a collision during TUM’s overtake. We can’t wait to be back on track for the Grand Final on November 15, pushing our software to the absolute limit in pursuit of first place. “
Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week
The 2025 A2RL race will be the climax of the first-ever Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week (ADAW). This new six-day event brings together researchers and industry experts across a series of high-profile summits, exhibitions, and events. ADAW includes the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit, DRIFTx Exhibition, and RoboCup Asia-Pacific.
A2RL was conceptualized under the vision and direction of H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President and Secretary General of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). It is organized and driven by ASPIRE, part of the ATRC that is responsible for technological “Grand Challenges”. ASPIRE leads the UAE’s efforts to advance breakthrough research, foster global collaborations, and translate high-impact technologies into real-world applications.
Automotive
2025 GEELY OKAVANGO FIRST-DRIVE REVIEW: THREE ROWS OF COMFORT
Amalsha VS
The Seven-Seater Specialist.
QUICK TAKE
A genuinely practical seven-seater SUV that prioritizes space and functionality over styling, making it a compelling choice for larger families.
Shiny Bits
- Genuinely impressive third-row space
- Comprehensive feature set.
- Smooth dual-clutch transmission
- Competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater.
Rough edges
- Somewhat generic exterior styling.
- Interior materials feel budget-conscious
- Apple CarPlay is wired only
- No Android Auto at all.
Founded in 1997 as a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Geely Auto has evolved from a small Chinese startup into a global automotive powerhouse that now owns Volvo, Lotus, and Polestar. Introduced to the UAE market through AGMC as the official distributor, Geely brings decades of automotive expertise and international partnerships to create vehicles that blend practical design with modern technology. The Okavango represents their vision of what a family-focused SUV should deliver in today’s market.
CONFIDENT DESIGN & PRACTICAL PROPORTIONS

The Okavango is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement.
The Okavango presents a thoughtful approach to SUV design that prioritizes function over fashion. Its bold front grille creates a commanding road presence, while the clean lines and well-proportioned silhouette give it a confident stance without appearing dull. The LED lighting signatures add a contemporary touch that keeps the design current, though the overall aesthetic plays it safe within established SUV conventions.
What immediately strikes you about the Okavango is its substantial size – this is a vehicle designed from the ground up to maximize interior space rather than make a style statement. The result is a design that may not win beauty contests but clearly communicates its practical intentions to potential buyers seeking maximum utility.
CAPABLE POWERTRAIN & PUNCHY PERFORMANCE

Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves.
Under the Okavango’s hood resides a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor pushing out 218 horsepower and 325 NM, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Acceleration is more than adequate: taking around 8 seconds to achieve a speed of 100 km/h, quick enough for confident overtakes on the UAE highways.
In Comfort mode, power delivery is smooth, while Sport mode noticeably sharpens engine response. Steering is tuned for lightness, good in city driving, but at higher speeds it could use a little more weight. Slight body roll is inevitable in corners, in a tall, three-row SUV, but the Okavango is appreciably stable and manages to keep the passengers comfortable around curves. Ride comfort is the focus: the suspension soaks up speed bumps and road imperfections with composure.
CONCEIVED AS A COMFY PEOPLE HAULER

The second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout delivers superior comfort and easier access to the third row.
Interior materials strike a balance between cost-consciousness and perceived quality, with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen providing clear graphics and intuitive operation. However, Android Auto isn’t offered, which we consider an essential feature for a modern car of this time. Apple CarPlay is included but only a wired connection is supported.
The overall cabin design ranks functionality above luxury, which suits the vehicle’s practical mission perfectly. This is where the Okavango distinguishes itself. Its flexible seating configuration allows you to accommodate passengers or cargo as needed, with the second row featuring a triple captain’s chairs layout providing superior comfort and easier access to the third row. The second row sliding & reclining gives flexibility to balance passenger comfort between the second and third rows.
The highlight factor of the Okavango is that its third-row is genuinely usable. Unlike many other mid-size crossovers, the Okavango doesn’t simply provide a third-row for namesake which is too cramped for grown-ups. Two adults can be seated there with a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom for shorter journeys. The seats fold and recline; and although ingress/egress is still a bit less convenient than second row, is not too much of a hassle.
Air conditioning is adjustable in the rear rows well, which matters under UAE heat and strong sun. Even with all seven seats occupied, passengers wouldn’t feel cramped or compromised inside the Okavango; a rare achievement in this segment.
FINAL FIRST IMPRESSIONS

For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore.
The Geely Okavango succeeds brilliantly in its primary mission – delivering genuine seven-seater capability at a competitive price point. It’s a vehicle that understands its target audience and delivers exactly what they need without trying to be something it’s not. The exceptional third-row space alone makes it worth considering for families who need to transport seven people regularly.
It may not excite enthusiasts or turn heads on the UAE roads laden with all kinds of fancy automobiles. But the Okavango represents exactly the kind of practical, well-executed family transport that many buyers are seeking. For families expecting space, functionality, and value for money, the Okavango is a desirable offering that’s difficult to ignore. It’s a vehicle that does the important things well, which is often more valuable than flashy shock-value-features that rarely get used.
FAQ
Yes, the Geely Okavango is available in the UAE through AGMC, the official distributor for Geely vehicles in the region.
The Geely Okavango is a seven-seater SUV with a flexible seating configuration featuring a second-row triple captain’s chairs layout and a genuinely usable third row.
The Okavango is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 218 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Geely Okavango accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds, providing adequate power for confident highway overtaking.
The Okavango features wired Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto is not available on this model.
Yes, unlike many mid-size SUVs, the Okavango’s third row offers genuine usability with reasonable legroom and headroom for two adults on shorter journeys.
The Geely Okavango offers competitive pricing for a proper seven-seater SUV in the UAE market, making it an attractive value proposition for families.
Automotive
DRIVE NOW, BUY LATER: Cariva’s Market-Changing Philosophy
Exclusive Interview with Harshvardhan Singh, Business Head, CARIVA

CARIVA is positioned as a tech-enabled, transparent platform for used car sales. What gap in the UAE automotive ecosystem did you see that inspired you to launch CARIVA?
The UAE is a very competitive market for used cars, yet there is still a wide gap between customer expectations and the actual services available. When people buy a pre-owned car today, the first thought that often crosses their mind is, “Am I taking a risk?” This question reflects a deep concern about trust. Buyers want to know if the car is in good condition, whether it has been in an accident, if it was serviced at authorized centers, whether the odometer has been tampered with, and how many people have driven it before.
We realized that answering these questions honestly and transparently could transform the customer experience. That is how Cariva came into existence. We are not just selling cars, we are giving customers peace of mind. At Cariva, we share everything about the car openly, from its service history to accident records. Each vehicle undergoes a full inspection at a government-authorized center before a buyer makes any decision. By doing this, we flip the customer’s question from “Am I taking a risk?” to “Am I protected?” We’re not just filling a gap – we’re disrupting an entire ecosystem that has operated on opacity for too long.
CARIVA has been described as “built from the ground up” — from ideation to execution. What was the most challenging stage of bringing this venture to life?
When you are working on an idea, everything looks straightforward on paper. The reality of execution is very different. Challenges appear at every stage, and the most difficult part for us was identifying exactly what the customer wanted and where the gap existed between expectations and reality. We realized we weren’t just building another used car platform – we were disrupting decades of industry practices that prioritized profit over customer protection.
We found that many businesses in this space focus on what they want to sell rather than what customers are looking for. Our challenge was to design solutions that addressed customer needs directly. This required listening carefully to buyers, understanding their pain points, and rethinking how used cars are presented and sold. The result is a model that fills the trust gap and delivers what customers truly expect, not just what the industry is accustomed to offering.

The UAE already has established players in the used car space. How does CARIVA differentiate itself in terms of customer experience, trust, and transparency?
Used cars are now outpacing new car sales worldwide, and the UAE is no exception. Buyers are drawn to affordability, but what they value just as much is transparency and trust. This is where Cariva stands apart.
We are not in the business of simply selling a car. We provide a mobility solution that is backed by confidence and honesty. Every customer receives a detailed inspection report that includes even the smallest imperfections a car may have due to age. We also provide a complete service history, which is something customers often struggle to access elsewhere.
Most importantly, every car is backed by an original manufacturer warranty, not just a generic third-party plan. For buyers, this approach translates into confidence, flexibility, and control. They are not just making a purchase, they are making an informed decision that they can feel good about for years to come. Beyond transparency, we offer choice. With over 100+ models available from various makes, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium vehicles, Cariva ensures every customer finds exactly what they’re looking for, regardless of their budget or lifestyle preferences.
You’ve previously mentioned blending data and emotion in brand building. How does this philosophy reflect in CARIVA’s business model and customer journey?
I strongly believe in data-driven decision-making, but I also recognize that data alone cannot create meaningful connections. When combined with emotional intelligence, data becomes a powerful tool for shaping customer experiences.
Before we built Cariva, we carried out extensive market research to understand the size of the opportunity, customer needs, and pain points from past purchase experiences. The insights we uncovered were eye-opening and helped us shape the concept of Cariva in a way that directly responds to customer realities.
We also understand that every customer is unique. A car is not just a vehicle; it often reflects a buyer’s lifestyle and personality. At Cariva, we support customers at every step of their journey, from selecting the right car to arranging financing, insurance, and registration. By combining data with empathy, we are able to deliver a holistic mobility solution that respects both rational needs and emotional aspirations, making car ownership seamless from day one.

Consumer trust has always been a sticking point in the used car market. How does CARIVA ensure quality assurance in inspections, certifications, and after-sales support?
Trust is the foundation of Cariva. For too long, the lack of transparency in the UAE’s used car industry has left buyers second-guessing their purchase. We are addressing this by building trust into every stage of the process.
Each vehicle goes through a comprehensive multi-point inspection that covers the engine, chassis, transmission, gearbox, and safety systems. Cars are certified at authorized centers, and this provides customers with verified quality. We also offer manufacturer-backed warranties that remove uncertainty about hidden issues. These aren’t generic third-party warranties – they’re OEM warranties backed by authorized agencies, the same coverage you’d get with a new car purchase.
On top of this, we introduced a global-first initiative called “Drive Now, Buy Later.” This gives customers up to four weeks to take the car home, use it in their daily life, and only make the purchase once they are completely confident. Finally, our after-sales support includes service partnerships and a dedicated customer care line, ensuring peace of mind long after the car has been purchased.
By addressing every concern head-on, Cariva has created a new benchmark for trust in the pre-owned market.
With more millennials and Gen Z buyers entering the car market, do you notice a shift in how they approach buying used cars compared to traditional buyers?
Yes, there has been a significant shift. Millennials and Gen Z buyers think very differently about mobility. They are digital-first, which means they do most of their research online before they ever step into a showroom. They want transparency, easy access to information, and digital tools that help them make better decisions.
They also value experience over ownership. Many of them prefer to try before buying, which is why our Drive Now, Buy Later program has resonated so strongly. At the same time, they are far more conscious of sustainability and value. For them, pre-owned cars are not only cost-effective but also a more environmentally responsible choice compared to buying new.
Cariva is designed with these shifts in mind. Our platform is digital, transparent, and flexible, which makes it perfectly aligned with the expectations of this new generation of buyers. Whether they’re looking for their first budget-friendly car or upgrading to a premium model, our diverse inventory caters to every financial bracket without compromising on quality or trust.

The UAE used car market is experiencing strong growth, driven by rising demand for affordable mobility and certified pre-owned cars. How do you see this market evolving in the next 3–5 years?
The UAE used car market is undergoing a major transformation. It is moving away from fragmented, informal sales toward a structured and customer-focused ecosystem.
Over the next three to five years, certified pre-owned cars will become the standard rather than the exception. We will also see the digitization of the entire buying journey, from virtual car tours to online financing and even doorstep delivery. In addition, value-added services such as extended warranties, flexible return policies, and bundled insurance will become key factors in customer decision-making.
Cariva is already ahead of this curve. By offering certification, flexible ownership models, warranties, and digital convenience all under one roof, we are not just keeping pace with the market but shaping its future direction.
With the UAE accelerating its shift towards electric mobility, what opportunities do you see emerging in the pre-owned EV market, and how is CARIVA preparing to tap into this space?
Electric vehicles are central to the UAE’s sustainability vision, and with that comes a huge opportunity in the pre-owned EV market. Today, many customers are hesitant because of concerns about battery life, resale value, and the lack of proper certification standards.
Cariva is preparing to address these gaps head-on. We are partnering with specialized diagnostic providers to certify battery health and performance. We are developing EV-specific warranties and buyback programs that give customers confidence in their purchase. At the same time, we are creating awareness campaigns to educate buyers about the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits of EV ownership.
By building these solutions early, Cariva is positioning itself as a trusted pioneer in pre-owned electric mobility, fully aligned with the UAE’s national sustainability agenda.
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