Chery's Exeed Becomes First Chinese Brand to Partner with Le Mans 24 Hours, Kicking Off 5-Year Racing Journey
1. Historic Partnership: China's Le Mans Debut
On December 13, 2025, Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. made global headlines by signing a strategic agreement with the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), organizer of the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans. Announced by Chery Executive Vice President Li Xueyong on social media, this marks the first time a Chinese automaker has formally partnered with the world’s most prestigious endurance race. Chery’s premium sub-brand, Exeed, will lead China’s foray into Le Mans, a milestone in the country’s automotive sports history.
2. Le Mans: A Global Benchmark for Automotive Excellence
The 24 Hours of Le Mans, established in 1923, is renowned for testing vehicle durability, engineering precision, and team strategy under extreme conditions. Winning or competing at Le Mans has long been a badge of honor for global automakers like Porsche, Toyota, and Audi, driving technological innovation (e.g., hybrid systems) and boosting brand prestige. For Exeed, this partnership signals its ambition to join the ranks of world-class automotive players.
3. Exeed’s Role: Chery’s Premium Flagship
Exeed, launched in 2018, positions itself as Chery’s high-end brand, focusing on advanced technology, quality design, and global competitiveness. Its models, such as the LX and TX, have gained traction in markets like Russia and Europe. By assigning Exeed to the Le Mans project, Chery aims to leverage the brand’s premium image to accelerate its global expansion while showcasing Chinese automotive R&D capabilities.
4. The "Le Mans Path": A 5-Year Strategic Roadmap
Exeed outlined a phased 5-year plan during the signing:
- Phase 1 (2026-2027): Develop a dedicated race car platform and compete in regional endurance series (e.g., Asian Le Mans Series) to refine technology and team expertise.
- Phase 2 (2028-2029): Transition to the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the global pinnacle of endurance racing, and qualify for Le Mans.
- Phase 3 (2030): Make its official debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, aiming to set performance benchmarks for Chinese brands.
5. Significance for China’s Automotive Industry
This partnership is more than a sports venture—it’s a strategic move for China’s auto sector. Historically, Chinese brands have focused on mass-market sales, with limited international motorsport participation. Exeed’s Le Mans entry marks a shift toward global recognition, aligning with China’s "Going Global" strategy. It also highlights the country’s growing confidence in exporting not just vehicles, but innovation and motorsport culture.
For global automotive enthusiasts and industry observers, Exeed’s Le Mans journey will be a key story to watch—one that bridges East and West, and redefines perceptions of Chinese automotive excellence.
