Why Did Chery eQ Electric Vehicle Discontinue Production?
3 Answers
Chery eQ's discontinuation was primarily due to issues with market positioning and pricing, as well as significant problems in commercial operations and advertising. Additional Information: Introduction to Chery eQ: The Chery eQ was Chery's first pure electric vehicle, classified as an A00-segment car. Dimensions: 3564×1620×1527mm, with a wheelbase of 2340mm. It featured a 23.6 kWh battery, offering a range of 200 kilometers. However, due to pricing and sales strategy issues, it never gained acceptance in the domestic market. Interior: The eQ's interior design was consistent with the gasoline-powered QQ model, maintaining the same level of craftsmanship and materials. The overall theme was black, accented with bright-colored decorative elements around the air vents and gear shift. The steering wheel had a three-spoke design, with grooves at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions to enhance grip.
I heard about the discontinuation of the Chery EQ, and as a long-time owner, I feel quite disappointed. I bought it back then because it was compact, easy to drive, and had low charging costs. After driving it for a few years, it felt decent. However, the market has changed drastically since then: many new electric models have emerged, like those from BYD, which offer stronger performance, longer range, and similar prices. In comparison, the EQ seems a bit outdated. The company probably also realized it wasn’t selling well—production costs were high, repair parts were expensive, and sales kept declining. I think they need to focus on making trendier electric vehicles, like the Ant series. The reduction in subsidies is another factor. With more players in the EV market, the EQ couldn’t keep up and naturally got phased out. I still like this little car—it’s handy for occasional grocery runs in the city. But now, finding parts is difficult, probably due to low demand and little profit.
I follow the automotive industry closely, and I believe the discontinuation of the Chery EQ is due to a combination of factors: a misstep in market positioning. Initially, it performed decently with subsidies and low pricing, but now the competition is fierce: rivals like the Wuling Hongguang MINI, which are affordable compact cars, are selling like hotcakes, while the EQ's sales pale in comparison. The company's strategy has shifted to new platforms like new energy vehicles, with R&D focus moving to more efficient models. After all, the EQ's technology hasn't seen major updates in years, and its battery range and smart features are weaker compared to newer models. Then there's the issue of cost control—producing these older models isn't cost-effective anymore, with low profits and the need to invest resources in maintenance. Overall, after policy adjustments in the electric vehicle market, the phase-out of subsidies also accelerated its discontinuation. It's a decent car to drive, but without competitive advantages, it's hard to survive.
