Chery Debuts KP31 Double-Cab Bakkie for South Africa

Chery has revealed its new KP31 double-cab bakkie concept as it prepares to enter the pickup segment. The company’s South African division has confirmed that the production version of the vehicle, which has not yet received an official name, is planned for the local market.

The KP31 concept features a 2.5-litre turbodiesel plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. While the automaker has not yet released official power and torque figures, it says the electrified setup should allow the bakkie to travel up to 170 kilometres on electric power alone. The drivetrain will include front, centre and rear locking differentials along with several off-road driving modes designed to improve capability in challenging terrain. A low-range transmission will also form part of the package.

Chery says the KP31 will offer a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload rating of around 1,000 kg, positioning it alongside established players in the one-ton pickup segment.

In terms of size, the concept measures 5,610 mm in length, although the production version is expected to be slightly shorter at about 5,450 mm. The vehicle is 1,920 mm wide and stands 1,925 mm tall.

South African Launch Timeline

Chery South Africa has indicated that the production model based on the KP31 concept could arrive in the country toward the end of 2026 or early in 2027.

The upcoming pickup will not be the brand’s only entry into the local bakkie market. Chery is also preparing to introduce the Himla, another pickup model scheduled for launch in South Africa during 2026 as the company expands its presence in the segment.Read more About Cherry HERE