Jaecoo J6 launch ignites Pakistan’s EV race with Chery–Nishat alliance

Chery and Hyundai Nishat’s NextGen Auto have launched their first electric vehicle in Pakistan, the Jaecoo J6 SUV, a high-spec model with up to 462 km of range that positions the new alliance to compete aggressively in the country’s expanding EV market.

LAHORE (The Thursday Times) — Just five months after sealing a landmark partnership, Chery International and Hyundai Nishat’s subsidiary NextGen Auto have introduced their first retail electric vehicle for Pakistan: the Jaecoo J6. The battery-powered SUV enters the market amid a sharp rise in demand for new-energy vehicles and signals the beginning of an ambitious push by the joint venture to capture a share of Pakistan’s growing EV segment.

This new chapter follows a significant industry shift earlier this year, when Chery ended its longstanding relationship with Ghandhara Automotive and signed a strategic agreement with NextGen Auto in February 2025. The agreement grants NextGen exclusive rights to assemble and distribute models under Chery’s Omoda and Jaecoo sub-brands, both specialising in electric and hybrid powertrains.

The Jaecoo J6, now available in three variants, is a compact SUV featuring battery-electric drivetrains, advanced driver assistance systems, and up to 462 kilometres of range on the NEDC cycle. Two rear-wheel-drive options and one all-wheel-drive version are offered, with the top-tier trim featuring dual motors, 205 kW of output, 385 Nm of torque, and a 69.7 kWh battery.

In terms of charging, all three models support 6.6 kW AC and 80 kW DC input. The entry-level J6 RWD Comfort variant offers 329.6 km of range, while the mid-range Luxury version extends that to 462 km. The AWD Premium trim delivers 418 km with improved acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds.

Exterior features include matrix adaptive headlights, LED lighting systems, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, heated and folding mirrors with indicators, and NFC key access. All versions feature electric charging-port covers and boot storage of up to 450 litres. Larger wheels are reserved for the top trim, which uses 19-inch tyres compared to 18 inches on the other models.

Inside, the Jaecoo J6 is equipped with a dual-zone climate system, a 2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 6-inch infotainment screen. Comfort touches range from ventilated and massaging front seats with power adjustments to rear-seat armrests, ambient lighting in 64 colours, and wireless phone charging with a “forget” alert.

Safety and driver-assist technology form a key part of the offering. The J6 includes six airbags, 360-degree cameras, parking sensors, anti-theft systems, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and an extensive suite of systems such as ABS, ESP, TCS, and direct TPMS. Advanced features include lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic jam assist.

Pricing begins at Rs 8,799,000 for the base rear-wheel-drive model, with the mid-range trim priced at Rs 9,899,000. The fully loaded AWD version is listed at Rs 10,799,000.

With these features, Chery and Nishat aim to make a strong debut in Pakistan’s EV market, which is attracting increased attention from international automakers. By offering high-range capabilities, safety-focused engineering, and luxury comfort at a relatively competitive price point, the Jaecoo J6 is expected to appeal to both early adopters and established SUV buyers seeking to transition into electric mobility.

Officials from both companies suggest more NEVs are expected soon under the Omoda and Jaecoo names, further signalling a long-term commitment to local EV production.

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