Chery's Pioneering Hybrid Experience
From April 9 to 11, 2023, the Chinese automotive manufacturer Chery hosted the Long Distance Challenge, an impressive three-day event showcasing the capabilities of their Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV and Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV models. This remarkable journey covered a distance of 1,000 kilometers across Morocco, starting from the bustling city of Casablanca and traversing through beautiful coastal towns such as Asilah and Tétouan, all while relying on a single tank of fuel and electric charge. The event not only highlighted the vehicles' efficiency but also demonstrated their adaptability to a variety of driving conditions.
The challenge concluded in Casablanca, after the convoy of ten vehicles navigated an extensive route that included highways, national roads, and the iconic coastal pathways of the Kingdom. Participants experienced real-world driving conditions throughout the entirety of the journey, which was based on a straightforward premise: completing 1,000 kilometers with just one refill of gasoline and a single electric charge, without any intermediate stops for fuel or recharging.
Performance and Comfort on Diverse Terrain
Departing from Casablanca, the convoy headed northward via the highway before transitioning onto the picturesque Larache coastal road. This scenic route ran alongside the Atlantic Ocean, leading to the vibrant cities of Asilah and Tanger. Participants were able to experience the vehicles' cruising speed, stability, and fuel efficiency under both highway and secondary road conditions. Day two presented a starkly different driving environment; the route from Tangier to M'diq, passing through Martil and Tétouan, featured urban traffic, winding roads, and stunning Mediterranean views. This diverse range of conditions tested the vehicles' adaptive capabilities without compromising passenger comfort.
Yassine El Maiss, the Brand Director of Chery Morocco at Africa Motors, remarked that "Chery's Super Hybrid technology confirms its positioning for long-distance autonomy and remarkable driving silence." He emphasized that the embedded smart technologies are designed to enhance the driving experience. Throughout the journey, the vehicles maintained a controlled consumption rate that aligned perfectly with the challenge criteria. The driving silence remained consistent, even in densely populated urban areas, while the premium comfort was evident across various road types, from highways to winding coastal routes.
On the final day, the convoy made its return to Casablanca via the highway, effectively completing this endurance challenge. Upon their arrival, a special ceremony dubbed "Chery Legends" celebrated this experience, with trophies awarded to the participants. Chery's Super Hybrid technology, which integrates a gasoline engine with an electric motor, allows for 100% electric driving on shorter trips while preserving the range of a traditional vehicle for longer journeys. The battery can be recharged through standard outlets or automatically while driving, thanks to energy recuperation.
This challenge is part of a broader international initiative by Chery, which will also participate in the Beijing Auto Show on April 23, 2026, where the latest technological advancements from the manufacturer will be unveiled. This global presence reinforces the significance of local initiatives within a larger vision for the brand.
The Tiggo 7 Pro PHEV and Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV cater to families seeking vehicles that combine autonomy with efficiency. The former is aimed at the compact SUV segment, while the latter is designed for larger families with its seven-seat configuration. Both models share a commitment to a rechargeable hybrid philosophy.
Beyond technical performance, the challenge underscored a simplified long-distance driving experience. Over three days, participants were able to test the serenity of their journey and the seamless integration of technology with real-world usage on Moroccan roads. This event served as a tangible demonstration of Chery's vision for mobility that not only supports but also reassures everyday drivers.
As reported by lopinion.ma.
