Chery is putting its first ute through a dedicated Australian testing and validation program as it prepares the Stockman for a local launch later in 2026.
The company has appointed Australian automotive engineering specialist Premcar to assess the new ute in local conditions, with the program focused on validating Chery’s ride and handling tune before the vehicle reaches customers.
It is an important step for Chery as the brand moves beyond its established SUV range and into the highly competitive Australian ute market.
Rather than relying solely on overseas development work, the Stockman will be tested against the wide range of environments Australian ute owners encounter, from city streets and highways to worksites and remote off-road conditions.
Chery Motor Australia Chief Operating Officer Lucas Harris said the local program reflected the expectations placed on vehicles in the Australian market.
“Australia is one of the world’s most demanding ute markets, and we know our customers expect a vehicle that performs confidently across everything from urban streets to highways, construction sites and remote off-road tracks.”
Harris said Premcar’s engineering and validation experience made the company a logical partner for the program.
“Premcar has an outstanding reputation for engineering and vehicle validation, making them the ideal partner to help ensure Stockman is thoroughly tested and validated for Australian conditions before it reaches our customers.”
Australian validation becoming an important battleground
As more manufacturers enter the Australian market, local testing is becoming one way brands can demonstrate that new models have been assessed against Australian operating conditions rather than simply adapted from an overseas specification.
That is particularly relevant in the ute segment, where buyers can expect one vehicle to perform passenger-car duties during the week while also towing, carrying equipment or operating off-road.
Premcar brings around 30 years of experience in automotive engineering, testing and vehicle development in Australia and has previously delivered programs for global manufacturers.
Premcar CEO Bernie Quinn said the work would focus on testing the characteristics Chery has already developed for the Stockman.
“Chery has created very specific attributes for the Stockman’s ride and handling and we are very pleased to help them test and validate their work in a variety of Australian conditions.”
Chery moves into a new segment
The Stockman will be Chery’s first ute and represents a significant expansion of the company’s Australian product portfolio beyond SUVs.
For business and fleet buyers, Chery’s move into the segment will add another potential option in a market traditionally dominated by established Japanese and American brands.
