Chinese automaker Chery Automobile has established a partnership with Japanese automotive retailer Autobacs Seven, with the aim of launching a new battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand in the country in 2027, according to reports. 

The two companies recently established a joint venture company in Japan called EMT (Electric Mobility Technology), along with other shareholders including Chinese battery manufacturer Gotion High-Tech. The Yokohama-based company is understood to be planning to launch a range of competitively priced, Chinese-made BEVs in the Japanese market, with the first model expected to go on sale in 2027. A further three models are planned for the following two years.

The joint venture would leverage Autobacs Seven’s network of around 1,200 sales and service outlets across Japan. Separate reports suggested that Koji Yamamoto, formerly in charge of the Nissan Leaf programme, has been appointed as chief technology officer (CTO).

Both Autobacs Seven and Chery have not so far confirmed the BEV launch plans, with Autobacs Seven denying that a final agreement has been reached with Chery on product strategy, while Chery has stated that at this stage the company is just one of many shareholders in EMT.