Preparations for the debut of Ceer have been in progress for nearly four years. In late 2022, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) joined forces with Taiwanese manufacturer Foxconn to create a new electric vehicle brand. The objective is to start producing EVs in Saudi Arabia by 2025, targeting the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market. Foxconn has since selected a prime location for an automotive factory within the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Despite facing some delays, Ceer is now ready to introduce its inaugural model, the Exobot. This vehicle will come in two variants: a battery-electric sedan and a battery-electric SUV. Ceer has ambitious plans, intending to roll out a total of seven different models by the year 2030.
Exobot: A Symbol of Luxury and Distinction
The Exobot is described as boasting a “visionary design” that reflects a unique Saudi character. Its design features dynamic proportions and an angular yet modern silhouette, enhanced by an unmistakable wedge shape that suggests rapid acceleration. A notable highlight is the nearly three-meter-long “Shahin wing” doors, inspired by the graceful flight of the Shahin falcon. These wing doors can be controlled remotely via a key fob or by using touch-sensitive controls integrated into the doors, allowing them to open smoothly in a 60 cm arc for easy access.
Positioned as a luxury vehicle rather than an affordable compact model, the Exobot aims to establish a strong road presence. The sedan measures 5.26 meters long, 2.1 meters wide, and 1.43 meters tall. In comparison, the SUV variant measures 5.02 meters in length, shares the width of 2.1 meters, and stands at 1.69 meters in height.
Innovative Technology and Performance
The Exobot impresses with its remarkable performance specs. In its top configuration, it boasts a powerful 1,111 horsepower (817 kW) and 1,500 Nm of torque. The vehicle is equipped with a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, with contributions from Rimac, a Croatian hypercar maker, and Hyundai Transys, which provides the two front motors. BMW is also involved, though specific details about their contribution have not been disclosed.
For acceleration, the sedan goes from 0 to 100 km/h in a rapid 2.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 km/h. The SUV variant achieves 0 to 100 km/h in 2.4 seconds with a maximum speed of 210 km/h. Advanced technologies in the Exobot include a steer-by-wire system, removing the need for a conventional steering column and resulting in more fluid design and responsiveness. The steering lock is reduced from 400° to 160°, promising a super sports car-like driving experience. Other tech features include a 48-inch 8K Digital Horizon Display, a 10.4-inch central control screen, and an 8-inch display for rear-seat passengers.
Economic Impact of Ceer
During the unveiling, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman stated, “The launch of CEER’s initial vehicles is a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia in developing a sustainable and prosperous industrial ecosystem.” The introduction of Ceer aims to make the automotive sector a pivotal element of economic growth by attracting investments and empowering local talent. It seeks to further strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a significant regional and global player in the automotive industry.
While exact pricing for the Exobot has yet to be revealed, production at the Ceer Manufacturing Complex in KAEC is slated to commence in January 2027, with the first vehicle deliveries projected for March of the same year. The company aims for a 45% local content share by 2034, contributing over 30 billion SAR (~€7 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and enhancing the trade balance by more than 80 billion SAR (~€18.5 billion).
In conclusion, Ceer is not just about producing vehicles; it’s a strategic effort to reshape Saudi Arabia’s economic landscape while showcasing the nation’s ambitions in the electric vehicle sector.