Chery debuts New Journeo Concept

CHERY Automobile has unveiled a futuristic-looking concept vehicle known as the New Journeo Concept at its Advanced Design Centre Europe in Raunheim, Germany this week.

Combining what the Chinese-owned manufacturer says are pioneering technologies, sustainable materials, and a revolutionary design, the New Journeo Concept is said to embody the “spirit of adventure by combining robust off-road capability with the comfort and luxury required for family travelling”.

Aimed at meeting “increasing demands for urban and sustainable mobility”, Chery says the four-seat concept can be transformed into a first-class mobile base camp when you arrive at your destination.

Constructed from a one-piece body that aims to optimise aerodynamic efficiency and interior spaciousness, the New Journeo Concept features a movable instrument panel and retractable tailgate to increase cabin length by an additional 1500mm front to rear.

Chery says the dashboard offers a minimalist design with a yoke-style steering wheel and concealed air vents.

The 180-degree rotating front seats and console move on concealed underfloor rails, allowing “flexible arrangement of furnishings in this high-end mobile living room”.

The people mover offers two rows of seating with an island placed between them; the flexible island is finished in a mint-coloured material to complement the model’s suede-covered floor.

Further back, the model’s rear bench may be extended 400mm to offer “additional space for relaxing”. When extended, the rear seat can be opened completely, “transforming the interior into a spacious, luxurious lounge area with an unobstructed view through the glass tailgate”.

Chery says the large segment MPV is also equipped with a modular front luggage compartment with variable bench seating, a mobile kitchen and a barbecue, adding to its purpose as a vehicle ready for off-road family adventures.

The Journeo is powered by Chery’s seventh-generation Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system, which consists of a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor to offer a claimed driving range of up to 2500km.

The concept vehicle is also equipped with Chery’s advanced CPilot 5.0 driving assistance system, which offers functions such as intelligent scanning of the surroundings to support navigation at high speeds and the system also aids parking in urban areas.

Chery says the plan is for the system to be able to scan unpaved roads in the future and then actively and automatically adjust the shock absorbers accordingly.

“With the New Journeo Concept, we are taking up the challenge of making mobility even smarter, more efficient and more environmentally friendly,” said Chery European Development and Design Centre managing director Jochen Tueting.

“This vehicle is more than just a study. It is Travel 4.0, our vision for a sustainable and connected future.

“The New Journeo concept is not just a design study, but a clear indicator of Chery’s future direction.

“Some of the technologies and design features are expected to be integrated into the future models, and visionary vehicle emphasises Chery’s commitment to driving forward the mobility of tomorrow with innovative solutions.”