Chery's Compact Plug-In Hybrid Pickup vs Maverick Showdown

Chery unveils plans for a compact, city-focused pickup

Patent images recently filed by Chery reveal a bold entry into the compact pickup segment: a sportier, urban-oriented truck built on a monocoque chassis and offering plug-in hybrid power. The design appears inspired by the practical formula of the Ford Maverick, aiming to blend SUV comfort with pickup utility for global markets.

Platform, chassis and ride

The new model is reportedly developed on Chery's T1X platform and features an independent rear suspension—unusual for light pickups but important to deliver car-like ride and handling in urban and suburban driving. The monocoque structure suggests Chery is prioritizing refinement and on-road comfort over traditional body-on-frame toughness.

Powertrain options

Electrification is a headline here: a plug-in hybrid setup is expected to be a primary powertrain. Chery may use its so-called super-hybrid architecture pairing a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor, offering up to roughly 90 km (about 56 miles) of pure electric range in ideal conditions. Conventional petrol variants are likely to include a 1.6-liter turbo and a 2.0-liter turbo producing around 208 hp.

• Platform: T1X
• Chassis: Monocoque (unibody)
• Suspension: Independent rear setup
• Hybrid EV range: ~90 km (WLTP/est.)
• Petrol options: 1.6L turbo, 2.0L turbo (~208 hp)

Interior and features

Inside, Chery appears to be targeting a more premium, tech-rich cabin than some rivals. Patent sketches suggest large digital displays, heated-and-cooled seats, and a panoramic glass roof—features that move this pickup toward the crossover-sedan comfort zone rather than a bare-bones work truck.

Market positioning and outlook

Documents filed in South Africa indicate Chery envisions this model for multiple regions, including Latin America, parts of Asia and Oceania, and Africa. If launched, the compact PHEV pickup could pressure competitors by offering urban-friendly dimensions, electrified efficiency, and more passenger-oriented amenities.

Chery is expected to reveal the vehicle within roughly 12 months. For buyers seeking a city-friendly pickup with strong tech and hybrid credentials, this newcomer could be an attractive alternative to the Ford Maverick and similar compact trucks.