Chinese car maker Chery has confirmed its Exeed TX SUV will go on sale in Europe.

The manufacturer will be looking to establish a retail network and aftersales provision unlike rival Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Lynk&Co, which will opt for a direct-to-consumer model instead.

The Exeed TX will be available with three electrified powertrains: a hybrid electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle or battery electric vehicle. 

The first configuration to go on sale will be an ultra-low emission PHEV variant. This model will intelligently combine a 149PS 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 115PS electric motor. It will feature all-wheel-drive and a seven-speed hybrid drive transmission.

With the combined power of the combustion engine and e-motor, the compact SUV will reach 62mph in six seconds, with a top speed of 124mph and fuel consumption of up to 156mpg.  

Inside, the new compact SUV incorporates the very latest smart technology, with connected infotainment, intelligent navigation and a comprehensive suite of the very latest advanced driver safety systems.

“Our brand will target open-minded, relatively younger customers in particular, with a product rollout strategy that focuses on quality, low- and zero-emissions powertrains, and emotional engagement with customers. All Chery vehicles that are intended to be sold in Europe will feature class-leading connectivity, be fun to drive, offer flexible and spacious interiors and will provide comprehensive personalisation, all of which are aligned with our high standards of product quality and aftersales support,” said Dr Anning Chen, Chery CEO.

Chery is evaluating the sales opportunity in key markets, ahead of setting up a European sales operation in co-operation with import and distribution partners. The new design and R&D facilities in Europe will accelerate Chery’s plan for global expansion.

Chery is the most successful exporter of vehicles in China. It has sold over 1.2 million units overseas since it was founded and it is also the first Chinese manufacturer to pass total sales of more than six million vehicles.

It has four manufacturing sites in China with a capacity to produce more than one million vehicles, approximately one million engines and around 600,000 transmissions. Outside its domestic market, Chery has 10 production facilities and nearly 1,200 sales and service outlets, compared to 500 in China.