Chery division Omoda & Jaecoo is set to introduce its first fully electric vehicle in South Africa, with the Jaecoo J5 EV effectively confirmed for the local market. Here’s what to expect…
- Brand O&J set to launch J5 EV in SA
- Due to arrive in 3rd quarter of 2026
- 155 kW FWD configuration looks likely
Chery division Omoda & Jaecoo has confirmed plans to introduce its first fully electric vehicle in South Africa, releasing a shadowy teaser image of the Jaecoo J5 EV and suggesting a local launch will take place at some point in the 3rd quarter of 2026.
While the Chinese firm already offers a traditional hybrid variant in the form of the Omoda C5 SHS HEV (with the J5 HEV expected soon, too) as well as plug-in hybrid derivatives like the J7 SHS PHEV , C7 SHS PHEV and C9 SHS PHEV , it has yet to launch a fully electric model in Mzansi.
That will soon change, with the J5 EV – which features a model-specific grille design – now effectively confirmed for SA. While Brand O&J’s local division has yet to announce any specification details, we can look to fellow right-hand-drive market Australia (and indeed the United Kingdom, where this model is badged as the “E5”) to form an idea of what to expect.
Down Under, the Jaecoo J5 EV employs a single electric motor delivering 155 kW and 288 Nm to the front axle. In that market, a 58.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack offers a claimed range of 402 km (on the WLTP cycle). According to the brand, the Jaecoo J5 EV can see off the 0-100 kph sprint in 7.7 seconds.
Inside the Aussie-spec version, you’ll find items like a 13.2-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging and an 8-speaker sound system, along with “pet-friendly” synthetic leather upholstery made from a silicone-based material, which the company claims is “antibacterial and wear-resistant”.
For the record, the current J5 range in South Africa comprises a quartet of purely petrol-powered derivatives, priced from R339 900 to R479 900 (with the J5 HEV still to launch). Check back in the coming weeks for confirmed details on the Jaecoo J5 EV, from local specifications to the all-important pricing factor…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the Jaecoo J5 EV launch in South Africa?
A: The Jaecoo J5 EV is officially scheduled to land in South Africa during the third quarter of 2026. This launch marks a significant milestone as the very first fully electric vehicle (BEV) to be introduced locally by Chery’s Omoda & Jaecoo division.
Q: What are the expected performance and battery specifications for the Jaecoo J5 EV?
A: While local specifications are still to be finalised, right-hand-drive benchmarks indicate the Jaecoo J5 EV will feature a front-wheel-drive configuration powered by a single electric motor producing 155 kW and 288 Nm. Equipped with a 58.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, it is expected to deliver a claimed WLTP driving range of approximately 402 km and achieve a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.7 seconds.
Q: What unique interior features can we expect from the upcoming Jaecoo J5 EV?
A: Based on international right-hand-drive market models, the cabin is set to showcase a large 13.2-inch central touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging and an 8-speaker sound system. A notable highlight is its pet-friendly interior upholstery constructed from a specialised silicone-based synthetic leather that is highly wear-resistant and antibacterial.
Related content
iCaur 03T (2026) Price & Specs
