Business Report

Everything you need to know about the new iCAUR 03T electric SUV in South Africa

Willem van de Putte|Published
The iCAUR 03T has officially launched in South Africa.

The iCAUR 03T has officially launched in South Africa.

Image: Supplied

The iCAUR 03T, a new energy sub-brand under the Chery Global umbrella, has officially launched in South Africa.

Positioned above the V23 in the brand’s line-up, the 03T will be offered in two derivatives. A rear-wheel-drive model and a dual-motor AWD version. 

Both variants arrive with the same retro-inspired SUV styling, but differ in performance, drivetrain configuration and some luxury features. 

Powertrains and range

The entry-level 03T 2WD uses a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle, producing 135kW and 220Nm. Power comes from a 65.69kWh battery pack.

According to the manufacturer, the rear-wheel-drive model completes the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 150km/h. Claimed energy consumption is 18.3kWh/100km, while the NEDC driving range is rated at 431km.

The AWD derivative adds a second electric motor, making total outputs to 205kW and 385Nm. It uses a larger 69.77kWh battery pack and will reach 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds. Top speed remains limited to 150km/h.

The AWD model claims a marginally higher NEDC range figure of 436km, with energy consumption rated at 19.9kWh/100km.

Both versions support DC fast charging, with a claimed 10-80% recharge time of 30 minutes.

Drive modes also differ between the two models. 

The 2WD offers eco, normal, sport and custom settings, while the AWD adds slippery, beach, muddy, bumpy and all-road modes.

The iCAUR 03T features dual-motor AWD, impressive range and advanced technology.

The iCAUR 03T features dual-motor AWD, impressive range and advanced technology.

Image: Supplied

Exterior

The 03T adopts a boxy SUV shape with squared-off proportions, wide wheel arches and upright styling. Slim LED lighting elements and a panoramic glass sunroof are standard across the range.

The electric SUV uses an aluminium multi-cavity cage body structure aimed at reducing weight and improving corrosion resistance.

Both models ride on 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 245/55 tyres. Suspension consists of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear arrangement.

Five exterior colours will be available: Khaki White, Carbon Crystal Black, Cyan Grey, Starlight Silver and Toronto Red. 

Interior and technology

Inside, the 03T seats five passengers and offers a 2,715mm wheelbase. Boot capacity is rated at 450 litres, expanding to 1,238 litres with the 60:40 split rear seats folded down. An additional rear storage compartment adds another 40 litres.

Both derivatives feature black leather upholstery, climate control, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats and electrically adjustable front seats. 

The AWD model adds front-seat massage functions and an electrically adjustable passenger leg rest.

There’s a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The 2WD uses an eight-speaker iCAUR sound system, while the AWD upgrades to a 12-speaker Infinity audio setup.

Further standard features include voice control, three USB ports, one USB-C port and a 50W wireless charging pad.

Both derivatives feature black leather upholstery, climate control, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats.

Both derivatives feature black leather upholstery, climate control, ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats.

Image: Supplied

Safety

Safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, emergency brake assist, ISOFIX child-seat anchor points, front and rear parking sensors and a 540-degree surround-view camera system.

The 03T also comes fitted with a full suite of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist and blind spot detection.

Additional safety features include front collision warning, reverse collision warning, traffic jam assist, door opening warning and a drive-away reminder. 

Warranty and pricing 

The 03T is sold with an eight-year/200,000km warranty and roadside assistance plan.

The battery pack is covered by an eight-year/160,000km warranty for the first owner, while a five-year/100,000km service plan is included.

iCAUR 03T 2WD: R639,900

iCAUR 03T AWD: R699,900

The 03T goes on sale locally from May 28, 2026.