China's Chery Takes Over Former Nissan Factory in South Africa

Chery Begins Upgrading Former Nissan Plant in South Africa After Factory Takeover

China's Chery has officially taken over the former Nissan vehicle manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, marking the start of a new phase for the Chinese automaker's expansion in the country. Company executives said Chery will invest millions of dollars to upgrade the facility and install new machinery before vehicle production begins in mid-2027. The company also confirmed plans to retain the plant's 692 existing employees while expanding its operations.

The factory takeover was completed on Friday, following an agreement that was first announced in January. Speaking during the launch ceremony at the Rosslyn facility, Chery said it aims to make South Africa its African base for manufacturing, exports, research and development, and regional operations.

According to the company, the investment will support its long-term plans in the region. Chery's Vice President Charlie Zhang said the Rosslyn plant is expected to become a full automotive centre that will include research and development, supply chain operations, and training facilities.

Zhang added that the company wants the facility to support Chery's growing business in South Africa while helping it achieve more than 100,000 annual vehicle sales in the country.

Chery also confirmed that all 692 employees currently working at the plant will keep their jobs under the new ownership. In addition, the company expects the project to create nearly 3,000 direct and indirect jobs across manufacturing, supply chains, and related services.

The launch ceremony was attended by company executives, government officials, and industry stakeholders, where Chery outlined its plans for the facility and its future operations in South Africa.

Before production starts, Chery will invest millions of dollars to modernise the factory. While company officials did not disclose the total investment amount, they said the funds will be used to upgrade factory facilities, utilities, and install additional manufacturing equipment.

During the initial production phase in the third and fourth quarters of 2027, Chery expects the Rosslyn plant to manufacture 15,000 vehicles.

The company said the factory will initially produce several sport utility vehicle (SUV) models under its brands.

Chery said the Jaecoo J5 will be available in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and new energy vehicle (NEV) versions.

The automaker is also working to increase the use of locally sourced components. According to company officials, Chery has launched a programme aimed at reaching 40% local content during the initial stage of production and is currently surveying tier-1 suppliers.

At the same time, Chery plans to bring some suppliers from China, particularly those producing components for electric vehicles and intelligent vehicle technologies, according to Executive Vice President Zhang Guibing.

Key Project Highlights

• Former Nissan factory in Rosslyn officially taken over by Chery.

• Vehicle production scheduled for mid-2027.

• Millions of dollars to be invested in factory upgrades.

• 692 existing employees will be retained.

• Project expected to create nearly 3,000 direct and indirect jobs.

• Initial production target of 15,000 vehicles during the second half of 2027.

• Factory to manufacture Jetour T Series, Jetour T1, Jaecoo J5, and Chery Tiggo 4 SUV.

• Jaecoo J5 to be produced in both ICE and NEV variants.

• Chery targeting 40% local content during the initial production phase.

• Company plans to establish South Africa as its regional hub for manufacturing, exports, research and development, and regional operations.

Summary

China's Chery has officially taken over Nissan's former car manufacturing plant in Rosslyn, South Africa, and plans to begin vehicle production in mid-2027 after investing millions of dollars in upgrades. The company will retain 692 employees, create nearly 3,000 jobs, and initially produce Jetour, Jaecoo, and Chery SUV models while aiming to establish South Africa as its African manufacturing hub.