By Hiroaki Otake

Yomiuri Shimbun Staff Writer

Major Chinese automaker Chery Automobile Co. and leading Japanese automotive parts retailer Autobacs Seven Co., among others, have plans to begin jointly selling new Chinese-made electric vehicles in Japan as early as 2027, sources said.

The companies aim to leverage Autobacs' sales network and offer EVs at a low price range.

Yokohama-based EMT Co., a joint venture established in 2025 by five companies from Japan and China -- including Chery and Autobacs -- will handle the production, development and sales side, according to the sources. At EMT, Chief Technology Officer Koji Yamamoto, who was involved in the development of the first-generation Nissan Leaf, Nissan Motor Co.'s EV model, will lead the development of new EVs for the Japanese market.

According to research firm MarkLines Co., Chery sold 1.41 million vehicles in China in 2025 to rank seventh. Its export volume reached 1.29 million units, the highest among Chinese manufacturers, demonstrating its strength in overseas expansion.

EMT will not sell Chery's existing EVs but focus exclusively on new models. The company plans to build its own dealership network in addition to utilizing Autobacs' stores. It also aims to perform post-purchase services, such as vehicle inspections and repairs, at Autobacs locations.

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May 11, 2026 22:23 ET (02:23 GMT)

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