Hayleys enters into ‘mobility’ in deal with China’s Chery Automobile
Daily FT: Hayleys Mobility, the newest venture under Hayleys Fentons, yesterday announced its entry into the electric and hybrid vehicle market through an exclusive distribution partnership with OMODA and JAECOO Automobile Co., Ltd., the premium New Energy Vehicle (NEV) brand of Chery Automobile Co., Ltd.
The agreement grants Hayleys Mobility full franchise rights in Sri Lanka for OMODA and JAECOO. Chery has been the leader in China’s passenger vehicle exports for more than 22 years, reinforcing its standing as a global automotive powerhouse. The agreement was formalised at Chery’s global headquarters in Wuhu, China.
Hayleys Mobility introduces structure, scale, and assurance, delivering premium Electric Vehicles (EVs), Hybrids, and conventional vehicle models with regulatory clarity and factory-certified service. Complementing this, its partnership with StarCharge lays the groundwork for a nationwide fast-charging network, tackling one of Sri Lanka’s biggest barriers to EV adoption: accessible, reliable charging. Together, they offer a comprehensive mobility ecosystem the market has long needed.
The venture reflects the evolution of Sri Lanka’s number one performing public-listed corporate, Hayleys, into next-generation transport solutions. It builds on the Group’s longstanding leadership in sustainable innovation, eco-conscious ventures, and engineering excellence.
The first wave of models includes the OMODA E5, JAECOO J6, and JAECOO J7, and will span electric and plug-in hybrid categories, catering to urban, premium, and off-road needs. Nationwide EV charging support will also be rolled out in partnership with StarCharge, a global leader in EV infrastructure.
Hayleys Fentons Managing Director Hasith Prematillake said: “Just as we have been driving solar energy adoption across the country, we are equally committed to advancing green mobility with a comprehensive, end-to-end ecosystem. Where many consumers face a fragmented EV market with limited support, we are offering a cohesive, next-generation mobility solution that seamlessly blends futuristic design, intelligent technology, and long-term service assurance. We are proud to lead the introduction of a premium NEV brand at a time when sustainable innovation has become a necessity.”
Chery Automobile Vice President Chen Chunqing said: “Our collaboration with Hayleys Mobility marks a strategic expansion into Sri Lanka. Together, we aim to capitalise on the accelerating demand for EVs and introduce a world-class, competitive, and globally influential product portfolio.”
Hayleys Fentons Director – Business Development Roshani Dharmaratne said: “Today, families are investing in a lifestyle. With OMODA and JAECOO, customers get intelligent vehicles that are powerful, sustainable, and future-ready. And with StarCharge, they also get confidence in where and how they charge – anytime, anywhere.”
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s automobile industry is presenting many lucrative ventures given the increasing local demand. The surge is Sri Lanka’s automobile industry as well as industries related to it like spare part manufacturing, etc., present many business/investment opportunities for foreign businesses/investors. It is in such a backdrop that a Sri Lankan company has formed a partnership with a Chinese company to expand the automobile industry in Sri Lanka. The partnership is also indicative if the growing automobile industry in the Sri Lanka in line with the country’s target of becoming a regional hub. Foreign businesses/investors could confidently explore the growing business/investment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s automobile industry and related sectors. They could also look at further expanding operations through local collaborations.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20250815/Z_4 |