Chery South Africa has announced that its first-ever bakkie will be called the Grootman, a name chosen by South Africans. The hybrid bakkie is planned for local launch in the first quarter of 2027, giving buyers in the double cab segment a new diesel-electric option with four-wheel drive. The name Grootman, rooted in Afrikaans, literally means "big man" and is a South African expression of respect for someone who has earned their standing through experience, achievement, and responsibility.
The Grootman has been developed on a dedicated hybrid platform and combines a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with electric power and four-wheel drive. Preliminary specifications include combined outputs of 350 kW and 800 N.m, along with an electric-only range of up to 100 km on the NEDC cycle. Vehicle-to-Load functionality allows the bakkie to power external equipment such as tools and camping appliances, extending the use of its hybrid system beyond driving.
According to Jay Jay Botes, General Manager for Chery South Africa, the name Grootman reflects the place a bakkie holds in many households, whether helping an owner build a business, carrying the family, or marking a long-held goal. He added that the company recognises the name "comes with expectations we will have to live up to". The reveal introduces a campaign titled "The Grootman Has Arrived", and Chery plans to gather personal accounts from South Africans about the people and qualities they associate with the word as it builds towards launch.
The bakkie is rated to tow up to 3,500 kg braked. Its load box measures 1,560 mm long, 1,560 mm wide, and 500 mm high, and ground clearance is no less than 230mm when fully loaded. This makes the Grootman a capable and practical option for those in need of a reliable work vehicle or a sturdy companion for outdoor adventures.
Final specifications, pricing, and the local model line-up will be announced closer to the planned first quarter 2027 introduction. The company is expected to generate significant interest with the launch of its first bakkie, and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting more information on this exciting new model.
The Grootman's hybrid drivetrain and impressive capabilities make it an attractive option for those looking for a versatile and powerful bakkie. With its four-wheel drive system and generous ground clearance, the Grootman is well-suited for navigating challenging terrain and handling demanding tasks.
As the launch date approaches, Chery South Africa will continue to build anticipation with its "The Grootman Has Arrived" campaign, sharing stories and experiences from South Africans about what the name Grootman means to them. With its unique blend of power, capability, and respect-inspired naming, the Grootman is poised to make a lasting impact in the local bakkie market.
Key points
- The Chery Grootman is a hybrid diesel 4x4 bakkie set to launch in South Africa in the first quarter of 2027.
- The Grootman boasts preliminary specifications of 350 kW and 800 N.m, along with an electric-only range of up to 100 km on the NEDC cycle.
- The bakkie's name, Grootman, reflects the respect and admiration for someone who has earned their standing through experience, achievement, and responsibility.
