The Floodgates Open: First Chinese EVs Land In Canada

"The first Chinese electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles have landed in Canada, after the United States' northern neighbor decided to slash import tariffs from 100% to just 6.1% in January. Chery and Geely are the first Chinese automakers to deliver cars on the ground in Canada, with the former shipping models from the Jaecoo, Omoda, and Exelantis brands, while the latter has shipped 18 Lotus Eletre high-end electric SUVS."

"According to a YouTube video published at the beginning of the month by Simply Gregster EV, Chery's cars have had their badges taped up, but some of them are already on manufacturer plates. The Jaecoo J5 crossover, Omoda 9 plug-in hybrid SUV, and Exelantis ES sedan were among the cars spotted in a Toronto parking lot. In total, Chery has reportedly shipped approximately 150 cars to Canada, as part of the initial phase, according to CleanTechnica."

"However, it's worth noting that these models will not be sold directly to customers and will instead be used for testing and certification purposes, as well as for test drive programs. The next phase in Chery's Canadian expansion plan allegedly includes the shipping of an additional 1,000 cars within the next three months. The first 10 dealerships are reportedly in the works and will be ready by the end of June."

"Meanwhile, Geely's luxury Lotus SUV has already passed certification under Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, according to the automaker. Lotus has six franchised dealerships that have opened their doors in March, according to Automotive News. Six more dealers will be added by the end of the year. Lotus debuted the Eletre in Canada in 2024, but the latest batch is the first one to set sail after the"

Canada reduced import tariffs on Chinese cars from 100% to 6.1% and set an annual cap of 49,000 vehicles. Chery and Geely became the first Chinese automakers to deliver vehicles in Canada. Chery shipped models under the Jaecoo, Omoda, and Exelantis brands, with examples including the Jaecoo J5 crossover, Omoda 9 plug-in hybrid SUV, and Exelantis ES sedan spotted in Toronto. Geely shipped 18 high-end Lotus Eletre electric SUVs. The vehicles are not intended for direct customer sales, but for testing, certification, and test-drive programs. Chery plans to ship about 1,000 more cars within three months, with initial dealerships targeted by late June. Lotus Eletre has passed Canadian safety certification, and additional franchised dealerships are planned.

Read at insideevs.com