Chinese iCAR Brand Nears Egyptian Market Launch Through GB Auto

GB Auto, the official distributor of several automotive brands in Egypt, is preparing to introduce a new dealership under the name iCAR to the local market. The emerging Chinese brand, a subsidiary of the Chery Group, specializes in electric vehicles and new-energy cars, with a clear focus on younger consumers.

iCAR Founded in 2023, Production Begins

iCAR was established as an independent electric vehicle brand in April 2023, operating as a Chinese automotive company under Chery. The brand began sales of its first model, the iCar 03 SUV, in February 2024. In April 2025, the brand name was changed to iCaur for international markets due to trademark considerations.

Previous Uses of the iCAR Name by Chery

Chery had previously used the iCar name on several occasions before establishing it as a standalone EV brand. In 2007, a name similar to the Chinese iCar was used for a pickup truck. In 2014, the platform underpinning the Chery Arrizo 7 was marketed as iCar. By 2017, iCar had become an environmental brand owned by Chery, encompassing a digital ecosystem and a network of online and offline direct sales outlets that sold Chery's new-energy vehicles, such as the Chery QQ Ice Cream.

iCAR Plans Diverse Vehicle Lineup

iCAR was officially transformed into an electric vehicle brand in April 2023 at the Auto Shanghai show. The 'i' logo for iCar was designed by Cao Xue, the creator of the panda mascot for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. According to Chery, the letter 'i' stands for intelligence, internet, innovation, individual, inspiration, and information. The brand targets young people aged 25 to 35 who are pursuing new careers. At the show, the brand unveiled two vehicles: the iCar 03 and the iCar GT experimental sports car. iCAR plans to market four product series covering MPVs, SUVs, and sports cars.

iCAR Introduces V23 in 2024

Pilot production of the iCar 03 began in June 2023, with pre-orders opening in November 2023. Sales officially started on February 28, 2024. On April 7, 2024, the second model, the iCar V23, made its debut in China. The V23 is the first model co-developed by Chery and Zhimi Technology. It was officially revealed on April 12, 2024, and launched in the second half of the same year.