Saudi Arabia’s new EV brand Ceer unveils debut model
Saudi Arabian EV brand Ceer, a joint venture between Foxconn and the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund PIF, has unveiled its first model. Its flagship Exobot will be available in two body variants – as an electric sedan and as an eSUV.
Ceer Exobot: electric sedan in front, electric SUV in back
Image: Ceer
Preparations for the launch of Ceer have been underway for around four years: In autumn 2022, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Taiwanese contract manufacturer Foxconn announced their joint venture. The goal: to manufacture EVs in Saudi Arabia from 2025 and sell them in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). Foxconn then secured the ideal location for a corresponding automotive plant in 2022 in the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) planned development.
Although delays subsequently became apparent, the time has now come for Ceer to unveil its first model – or, perhaps two, depending on the definition. The debut model, named Exobot, is set to launch in two body variants – both as a battery-electric saloon and as a battery-electric SUV. Exobot will not remain alone, as Ceer plans to introduce a total of seven models by 2030.
Luxury vehicle with “imposing road presence”
The Exobot features what Ceer describes as a “visionary design” with a distinct Saudi identity, characterised by dynamic proportions, an angular yet futuristic structure, and an unmistakable wedge shape that conveys powerful acceleration even when stationary. A striking feature of both body variants are nearly three-metre-long ‘Shahin wing’ doors, inspired by the elegant flight of the Shahin falcon. These can be operated via remote control on the key fob or by lightly touching the discreet controls integrated into the doors, opening effortlessly in a smooth 60cm arc to provide a wide and inviting entry for front and rear passengers.
These wing doors alone make it clear: the Exobot is certainly not an affordable compact car but rather a fully electric luxury vehicle with “imposing road presence,” as Ceer states. The saloon measures 5.26 metres in length, 2.1 metres in width, and 1.43 metres in height, while the SUV comes in at 5.02 metres in length, 2.1 metres in width, and 1.69 metres in height.
Technology from BMW, Rimac, and Hyundai Integrated
The performance figures are equally impressive: in its top specification, the Exobot delivers a symbolic 1,111 hp (817 kW) and 1,500 Nm of torque. It features a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, with Croatian hypercar manufacturer Rimac supplying the rear motor and Hyundai Transys providing the two front motors. BMW is also contributing drivetrain technology, though it has not disclosed further details.
The sleek saloon accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.4 seconds and achieves a top speed of 210 km/h.
Image: Ceer
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At the same time, the Exobot is equipped with cutting-edge technology: steer-by-wire eliminates the need for a conventional steering column, enabling greater freedom in design, ergonomics, and responsiveness. The steering lock is reduced from 400° to 160°, intended to deliver a driving experience akin to that of a super sports car. Other highlights include a 48-inch curved Digital Horizon Display with 8K resolution spanning the entire A-pillar, a 10.4-inch central control screen, and an 8-inch display for rear passengers.
Ceer aims to advance Saudi Arabia’s economy
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia and Chairman of the PIF Board, stated during the Exobot’s unveiling: “The launch of CEER’s first vehicles represents another step forward in Saudi Arabia’s progression to build a sustainable and prosperous industrial ecosystem. It further enables the automotive sector as a key driver of economic growth, through attracting investments, empowering national talent, and expanding the private sector’s role to further position Saudi Arabia to become a leading regional and global hub for this industry.”
Pricing for the Exobot remains undisclosed. According to a report by Autocar, series production of the Exobot is set to begin at the new Ceer Manufacturing Complex (CMC) in King Abdullah Economic City in January 2027, with the first deliveries planned for March 2027. The company aims to achieve a 45 per cent local content share by 2034.
Investor PIF estimates that Ceer will contribute over 30 billion SAR (~€7 billion euros) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2034, improve the trade balance by over 80 billion SAR (~€18.5 billion euros), and create high-quality direct and indirect jobs.