TL;DR
Chery, a leading Chinese automaker, will partner with Japanese auto parts retailer Autobacs Seven to sell electric vehicles in Japan from 2027. This marks a significant step for Chinese automakers entering the Japanese EV market.
Chinese automaker Chery and Japanese auto parts retailer Autobacs Seven will jointly sell electric vehicles in Japan starting in 2027, marking a major expansion into the Japanese EV market.
Chery, ranked 12th globally in new vehicle sales in 2025, will collaborate with Autobacs Seven, which operates approximately 1,200 stores worldwide, to introduce EVs in Japan. The partnership aims to leverage Autobacs’ extensive retail network to accelerate EV adoption in Japan, a market traditionally dominated by Japanese automakers. The companies have not disclosed specific models or investment figures but confirmed the joint venture will commence sales in 2027. This move reflects China’s broader push into international EV markets and Japan’s interest in diversifying its EV supply sources.
Why It Matters
This partnership is significant because it signals China’s intent to expand its EV footprint into Japan, a market historically resistant to foreign automakers. For Chery, this marks a strategic entry into one of the world’s largest and most developed EV markets. For Japan, it introduces new competition and could influence local automakers’ strategies. The collaboration also highlights the increasing role of non-traditional auto companies, like automotive retailers, in EV distribution channels.
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Background
China’s EV industry has experienced rapid growth, with companies like Chery ranking among the top globally. In 2025, Chery ranked 12th worldwide in new vehicle sales, reflecting its expanding global footprint. Japan’s EV market remains largely dominated by domestic automakers such as Toyota and Nissan, but recent policies and consumer interest are encouraging new entrants. Autobacs Seven, primarily known for automotive accessories and used cars, has been exploring diversification, and its partnership with Chery represents a strategic move into EV sales. The announcement follows broader industry trends of cross-border collaborations to accelerate EV adoption and market penetration.
“We are excited to partner with Autobacs Seven to bring affordable and innovative EVs to Japanese consumers, marking a new chapter for Chinese automakers in Japan.”
— Chery spokesperson
“Partnering with Chery allows us to expand our offerings and support Japan’s transition to electric mobility, leveraging our extensive retail network.”
— Autobacs Seven CEO
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What Remains Unclear
It is not yet clear which specific EV models will be introduced, the scale of investment, or the detailed timeline for rollout beyond the 2027 start date. The regulatory environment and consumer reception in Japan remain to be seen, and further details about the partnership’s scope are still emerging.
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What’s Next
Next steps include finalizing vehicle models, establishing sales channels, and marketing strategies ahead of the 2027 launch. Industry observers will watch for further announcements on investment levels and specific product offerings.
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Key Questions
What types of EVs will Chery and Autobacs sell in Japan?
Specific models have not been announced yet. Details are expected closer to the launch date in 2027.
Why is this partnership significant for Japan’s EV market?
It introduces a new foreign competitor and reflects China’s expanding presence in international EV markets, which could influence local automaker strategies.
Will this partnership affect Japanese automakers?
Potentially, as increased competition may prompt local automakers to accelerate their EV development and marketing efforts.
How will Autobacs Seven support EV sales?
Autobacs will leverage its extensive retail network to facilitate vehicle sales, service, and customer engagement for the new EV offerings.
