Ebro reborn: chery’s bold electric gamble takes shape

Chery’s Ebro brand is electrifying the Automotive landscape with a surprising new strategy – a fully electric compact SUV, the Ebro BEV, poised to enter the Spanish market with a coveted CERO environmental label.

A radical shift for a familiar name

The Ebro, previously known for its larger, performance-oriented SUVs, is dramatically pivoting with the BEV, representing a significant departure from its established identity. This isn’t just another EV; it’s a statement of intent, embracing a minimalist design and aiming squarely at the burgeoning B-segment electric market.

Early impressions of the Ebro s700 HEV – a hybrid variant utilizing a 224 horsepower powertrain – suggest a sophisticated blend of utility and refinement. Despite its compact size, it incorporates underbody protection and semi-sanded wheels, echoing the robust features of traditional SUVs. The bi-tone paint scheme, with a silver-grey upper body and black lower panels, adds a contemporary aesthetic.

However, the Ebro BEV is where the brand truly pushes boundaries. Its streamlined design, characterized by rounded forms and an organic aesthetic, stands in stark contrast to the angular lines of the s700 and s800 models. The front end conspicuously lacks a traditional grille, replaced by a closed ‘mouth’ displaying the brand’s logo, flanked by distinctive, illuminated headlights. A full interior image reveals a cockpit dominated by a 15.6-inch central touchscreen and an 8.88-inch digital instrument cluster – a clear nod to the latest digital trends.

Under the hood, the BEV boasts a 90 kW electric motor driving the rear wheels, delivering a 122 horsepower output. While not setting the world alight in terms of outright performance – 0-60 mph in around 11 seconds – it’s perfectly adequate for urban driving and aligns with the vehicle’s intended purpose: short commutes and daily errands. Crucially, Chery projects a range of up to 400 kilometers on a single charge, supported by both 11kW AC and potentially faster DC charging capabilities – details still to be finalized.

Production is slated to begin at Chery’s facility in Spain before the end of the year, promising a relatively swift rollout. The Ebro BEV’s interior, characterized by a minimalist approach and a focus on digital connectivity – including a Qualcomm Snapdragon infotainment system and wireless phone charging – reflects a broader industry trend. While a full specification sheet remains elusive, the Ebro’s ambition is clear: to establish itself as a serious contender in Spain’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, offering an accessible and stylish entry point to the brand’s expanding portfolio. This electric Ebro is a calculated risk – and one that could redefine Chery’s presence in Europe.”