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The EPCR, organiser of the prestigious Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup, has unveiled OMODA | JAECOO as its Official Automotive Partner for the 2024/25 season. This landmark collaboration marks the first time EPCR has partnered with an automotive brand. This heralds a new era for international club rugby.
This partnership is a strategic move for EPCR, aimed at diversifying revenue streams and fostering the sport’s global growth. For OMODA | JAECOO, this represents Chery International‘s first global, multi-market sports sponsorship, aligning with its ambition to solidify its presence in key markets like South Africa, the UK and Italy.
Shared vision: sustainability and innovation
EPCR and OMODA | JAECOO share a commitment to sustainability and innovation. OMODA | JAECOO is at the forefront of electrified automotive solutions, leading the charge toward carbon neutrality. The automaker plans to launch all-electric and plug-in hybrid models in South Africa, starting with the JAECOO J6. This rugged yet eco-friendly SUV offers two powertrain options: a 2WD version with 184 kW and a 4WD model delivering 279 kW.
The OMODA J7 lineup is also expanding to include the J7 PHEV. A plug-in hybrid promising efficiency, reduced emissions and the flexibility of a traditional engine. Early tests report fuel consumption as low as 3.3L/100 km, these models embody the brand’s vision for a sustainable future.
EPCR’s impACT sustainability strategy aligns seamlessly with these goals, including its ambition to achieve Net Zero Finals by 2030.
A focus on connectivity
Both EPCR and OMODA | JAECOO are committed to enhancing connectivity. EPCR achieved record-breaking attendance during the 2023/24 season, with 7.5 million fans filling stadiums and millions more engaging digitally. Similarly, OMODA | JAECOO’s vehicles are designed to elevate user experiences with cutting-edge connected technology.
Jacques Raynaud, EPCR CEO, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with OMODA | JAECOO and introduce a new brand to the world of rugby. Purposeful partnerships like this are vital for the sustainable growth of our sport.”
Victor Zhang, UK Director for OMODA | JAECOO, echoed these sentiments: “We share values of sustainability, intelligent connectivity, and accessibility. This partnership allows us to showcase our vehicles to rugby’s passionate global audience.”
Driving rugby’s future
As part of the partnership, OMODA | JAECOO will also support Gloucester Rugby in the 2024/25 season, reinforcing its dedication to the sport.
With this collaboration, OMODA | JAECOO aims to make every journey—on the road and in rugby—more innovative, sustainable and rewarding. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead, marked by progress and purpose.
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