Chery Automobile is all set to reintroduce its iconic QQ hatchback, which once ruled Chinese city streets, with a brand-new design.
The company will officially unveil the reinvented QQ concept model at the highly anticipated Shanghai Auto Show later this month. The news marks a major comeback for the once-popular car that was discontinued in 2014 after a decade-long run.
On April 3, Li Xueyong, Deputy General Manager of Chery, shared the first official images of the updated QQ concept. The photos reveal a modern and futuristic design, signaling the brand’s serious attempt to recapture its past glory in the small car segment—this time, likely with an electric twist.
Originally launched in the early 2000s, the Chery QQ quickly became a hit, particularly among younger drivers. Dubbed as the “first car for young people,” the QQ offered a compact, affordable option that was perfect for urban commuting.
The lineup began with the QQ3 in 2003, and later included models like the QQ6 and QQme. With an initial price tag as low as 29,900 yuan (roughly $4,100), the QQ saw overwhelming success, selling over 40,000 units in its first year and exceeding 10,000 units per month in 2005.
Altogether, the series reached a cumulative sales figure of 1.4 million units before sales began to taper off, prompting Chery to halt production in 2014.
Now, more than ten years later, Chery is betting on nostalgia and innovation to reintroduce the QQ to a new generation of drivers. The concept vehicle boasts a sleek black-and-white color scheme with a rounded silhouette that gives it a distinctively modern and clean appearance.
Up front, the closed grille hints at an electric powertrain, while a refreshed “Qq” logo and unique geometric headlights give the car a new identity.
The side profile is equally futuristic. It features digital side mirrors and smooth, handle-less doors, adding to its minimalistic appeal. Stylish, “+” shaped wheel rims further enhance the vehicle’s unique character. Branding elements like the “Qq” badge behind the C-pillar and a “Chery Design” label on the side skirt subtly emphasize the model’s updated vision.
At the rear, the car mirrors its front-end styling with a cohesive design, while a high-mounted brake light adds a modern touch of safety and aesthetics.
Chery’s decision to revive the QQ couldn’t come at a more strategic moment. China’s mini electric vehicle (EV) market has seen rapid growth over the last decade, led by models such as SGMW’s Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and Geely’s Geome Xingyuan. These vehicles have shown that there is strong demand for small, affordable electric cars—especially for city dwellers.
With its established legacy, upgraded styling, and potential electric platform, the new Chery QQ could become a serious player in the booming mini EV segment. All eyes will be on Chery at the Shanghai Auto Show as the brand reveals its next steps and gauges public interest in this long-awaited return.