Ceer, a joint venture between Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund and Foxconn, has unveiled its first two electric vehicles. The lineup, branded as Exobot, includes a sedan and an SUV, both featuring gull-wing doors and a futuristic design. The company plans to start sales in Saudi Arabia in early 2027.
The vehicles utilize an electrical architecture provided by Foxconn, while BMW supplies engineering support. CEO Jim DeLuca noted that the design eliminates the B-pillar between the front and rear seats, utilizing high-strength materials for structural integrity. The company aims to expand its portfolio beyond pure electric vehicles to include plug-in hybrids and internal combustion engine models.
The company intends to launch five additional mainstream models between 2028 and 2030. These future vehicles will be designed to meet global regulatory standards to facilitate international sales. Ceer plans to enter neighboring markets by 2028, with a long-term goal of expanding its presence throughout the Middle East and North Africa.
The initiative is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on oil. However, the company faces significant challenges, including logistical hurdles and inflation linked to regional geopolitical tensions. Previous attempts to establish a domestic automotive industry in the country, such as a planned Jaguar Land Rover factory, were unsuccessful.
