Chery ute naming competition shortlist revealed 

Chery has unveiled a shortlist of nine nameplates for its upcoming ute as the model edges towards launch.

Chery Australia has run the campaign to find a name for its first ute, with the individual who submits the winning name in line to receive the first model once it arrives on sale in Australia.

While this competition isn’t open to Kiwi submissions, the naming campaign has attracted more than 20,000 submissions from across Australia, with each submission required to include a rationale for the suggested name.

Chery says the shortlisted names capture the personality Australians associate with utes, while also reflecting how buyers are beginning to think about new powertrains.

The nine shortlisted names are:

• Outrider, referencing the historic role of riders who scouted ahead into unknown territory and symbolising leadership and capability
• Orca, inspired by the marine predator known for strength, intelligence and adaptability
• Ironbark, drawing on the resilience of Australia’s native eucalyptus trees
• Bushwalker, reflecting outdoor exploration and off-road versatility
• Stockman, representing endurance and reliability in tough working conditions
• Longreach, inspired by Australia’s rural heartland and long-distance capability
• Ridgeback, evoking rugged terrain and durability
• Terra, derived from the Latin word for earth and reflecting its off-road focus
• Mate, referencing a familiar Australian term associated with trust and everyday reliability.

Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer at Chery Australia, said the response highlighted strong engagement with the brand’s first ute offering.

“We asked Australians to help name this ute, and they delivered in a big way,” said Harris.  “The shortlisted names show just how passionate people are about utes, but also how they’re thinking about the next generation of vehicles as new energy technology evolves.”

Beyond the shortlist, the competition also generated a range of creative entries including “Dropbear” and “B-ute”.

Voting to find the winner is now open and runs until May 19, with the final name to be selected by public vote. The winner will receive the first Chery ute when it arrives in Australia later this year.

Chery is also planning to introduce the model in New Zealand, although timing and final specifications have yet to be confirmed.