What’s in a name? – Chery announce the title of their “world-first” plug-in hybrid diesel ute

Chery Australia have revealed the name of their new Hybrid Ute, designed especially to deal with the harshest environments the land down under can throw at it and they can thank the Aussie public for coming up with the moniker.

Originally announced in March this year Chery set the public the task of naming their new ute. They wanted something that signified something uniquely Australian to celebrate what they say is the “world’s first plug-in hybrid diesel ute” one that “delivers the torque, towing, and long-distance range Australian’s demand, whether for work or recreation, while significantly reducing fuel use and emissions.”

So fast forward a couple of months and the shortlist was published here where I declared my support for my suggested name of The Chery Ironbark. Unfortunately I wasn’t the only one to suggest it and wasn’t in contention to take away the grand prize of the first model off the boat.

No matter. I can now reveal it didn’t win anyway

Today Chery Australia announced that the winner of naming rights went to a Victorian named Steve Kodikara who came up with a name “symbolising a ute built to go the distance in demanding environments” and that name is The Chery “Stockman”

For those who have been following the journey, Stockman was one of 9 shortlisted and again Australians were invited to participate on the final choice with voting carried out throughout the month of May.

With over 20,000 votes tallied, the name Stockman emerged as the winner and no doubt Steve’s description of what the new ute could symbolise helped give him the edge in being considered for the honour. He described the stockman as “Australia’s original workhorse, someone able to navigate challenging terrain, overcome obstacles and earn trust through reliability and perseverance. He drew parallels between that spirit and Chery’s ute, which combines traditional capability with next-generation technology”

Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia, said the response to the competition exceeded all expectations.

“The response to this competition exceeded our expectations and showcased just how passionate Australians are about utes,” said Harris. “Stockman stood out because it captured something uniquely Australian while reflecting the capability, reliability and innovation behind our upcoming ute. Steve’s submission brought the name to life through a compelling story, connecting Australia’s heritage with the next generation of ute technology.”

Now the Stockman! Where have I heard that name before? Well apparently it has some heritage. Soon after the official announcement, Suzuki Australia was bombarded with enquiries from media and customers who couldn’t help point out that the Suzuki Sierra Stockman was in the Australian market back in the 1980’s and 1990’s.

Perhaps a little tongue-in-cheek Michael Pachota, Suzuki Australia General Manager – Automobile put out a statement to say that “We’re flattered to see the Stockman name back in the headlines….As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”

Specification, pricing and launch timing will come shortly but Chery have estimated the Chery Stockman will be available later this year so not long to wait