South Africans have embraced compact SUVs like the Chery Tiggo 4. Soon, they’ll also be building one.
Chery South Africa confirmed that the Tiggo 4 Cross will become the first vehicle produced at its Rosslyn manufacturing plant, with local production beginning in the second half of 2027. Now, Chery’s transitions from importer to manufacturer and reinforces South Africa’s position as a key automotive production hub.
The company has chosen a proven winner. Between January and June 2026, South Africans bought 11,322 Tiggo 4 models, making it the country’s second best-selling passenger vehicle during the first half of the year. Sales peaked at 2,070 units in June, delivering 39% year-on-year growth and making the Tiggo 4 Cross the obvious choice to anchor Chery’s manufacturing ambitions.
Rosslyn will produce both petrol and hybrid-electric (HEV) derivatives, allowing Chery to meet current demand while preparing for the growing shift towards more fuel-efficient vehicles.
The Rosslyn plant, has been building vehicles since 1963, and undergo significant upgrades before production starts. During the initial ramp-up in late 2027, Chery expects to produce around 15,000 vehicles, with capacity increasing as operations expand.
Perhaps the biggest story is the impact on the local economy. Chery will retain all 692 existing employees, while the project is expected to support nearly 3,000 direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, logistics, suppliers and related industries. At a time when investment in local manufacturing is vital, that’s a welcome vote of confidence in South Africa’s automotive sector.
The company has also launched an extensive localisation programme, working with Tier-1 suppliers to increase local content. That creates opportunities for component manufacturers, strengthens supplier networks and helps develop valuable technical skills.
Chery’s ambitions extend well beyond assembling SUVs. Rosslyn is planned to evolve into a broader automotive hub incorporating research and development, supply chain operations, skills development and export activities, further strengthening South Africa’s role as a manufacturing gateway to Africa.
There’s another interesting possibility on the horizon. Chery is conducting feasibility studies into producing a future light commercial vehicle—possibly even a bakkie—at Rosslyn. While no decision has been made, it signals that the company is already considering expanding its local production footprint.
Locally produced Tiggo 4 Cross models will also benefit from Chery’s Family Care ownership programme, including the Trans-national Warranty Programme, providing warranty support through authorised Chery service centres in participating countries.
Besides the Tiggo 4 Cross being one of South Africa’s automotive success stories it, launches Chery’s manufacturing future in South Africa.
For buyers, it means a vehicle built closer to home bringing investment, jobs and supplier growth. This proves global manufacturers continue to see long-term value in building vehicles on local soil.
www.chery.co.za
