Chery’s all-new HIMLA brand made its official debut at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, marking the automaker’s bold entry into the global bakkie market. Positioned to compete in this contested segment, HIMLA reflects Chery’s vision to redefine the future of traditional bakkies.
As the role of bakkies continues to expand beyond work into everyday life, HIMLA showcases Chery’s technological strength in the global mobility space. The new HIMLA series builds on Chery’s 28 years of technical expertise and will further leverage the company’s advantages in the three core components of NEVs and intelligent connectivity to reshape the global bakkie landscape.
Bakkies have evolved beyond their traditional workhorse role, becoming more versatile and better suited to lifestyle uses. The global bakkie segment is entering a phase of sustained growth, with the latest IHS data showing international sales reached 5.67 million units in 2025, and forecasts suggesting volumes will surpass 6.3 million units by 2030.
“Bakkies play a vital role in many parts of the world, from remote work sites to everyday family life,” commented Verene Petersen, National Marketing Manager for Chery South Africa. “HIMLA is our way of expanding into a segment that is both competitive and full of potential. South Africa, in particular, is a standout market for bakkies. While we continue to evaluate opportunities in key markets, our focus with HIMLA is on building a product that speaks to global needs and local preferences alike.”
The name HIMLA draws inspiration from a reverence for mountain peaks and the spirit of conquest—embodying the bold yet practical values of its intended audience. The new brand will offer a full lineup, ranging from compact and mid-size to large bakkies, with multiple powertrain options including petrol, diesel, and fully electric variants. This versatility will serve a wide range of users, from commercial and utility-focused applications to family transport and off-road adventure.
Each model in the HIMLA series will be tailored to suit regional driving habits and regulatory standards—whether addressing the Middle East’s demand for off-road enhancements, South America’s cargo-hauling priorities, or Europe’s growing focus on electrification.
The HIMLA range will adhere to Chery’s Global Five-Star Safety Standard, incorporating intelligent driving assistance systems, high-strength body structures, and advanced battery safety technologies to ensure safety in diverse and challenging driving environments.
In addition to the premiere of the HIMLA pickup range, Chery’s hybrid lineup—led by the flagship Tiggo 9 CSH—also made a strong impression at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, highlighting the advanced capabilities of Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology.
