Caster Semenya partners with JAECOO J7 SHS

Byron Lukas

Caster Semenya has officially joined the JAECOO South Africa family as brand ambassador for the J7 SHS, the marque’s first plug-in hybrid SUV in the local market.

The partnership brings together two forces defined by discipline, performance and purpose. Semenya’s sporting legacy and advocacy for excellence closely align with JAECOO’s focus on innovation, efficiency, and sustainable mobility.

“I love the J7’s style. It’s sleek, spacious, and packed with advanced safety features, which is especially important for me as a parent,” says Semenya. “For someone with kids and a family, it fits perfectly.”

Redefining hybrid performance

The J7 SHS represents JAECOO’s confident step into South Africa’s electrified vehicle space. The plug-in hybrid produces a combined 255 kW and 525 Nm of torque, delivering strong performance while maintaining impressive efficiency.

Its 18.3 kWh battery provides an electric-only driving range of up to 90 km, while the combined range exceeds 1,200 km. This makes the J7 SHS suitable for both daily urban driving and extended road trips.

“The most surprising thing for me is how spacious it is, especially the boot, and how quiet it drives,” Semenya adds. “I had assumptions about Chinese vehicles and quality, but I was wrong. This is one of the best driving experiences I’ve had.”

Designed for family life

Built with modern households in mind, the J7 SHS blends premium comfort with practical technology. Features include leather seating, a large 14.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.

“My wife loves how comfortable and stylish it is,” says Semenya. “Long-distance trips with the kids are far more enjoyable now. The infotainment system stands out, too. The screen is responsive, and the sound quality is excellent.”

A sustainable shift without compromise

Driving a plug-in hybrid has reshaped how Semenya approaches sustainability on the road. “It’s shown me I don’t have to choose between performance and responsibility,” she says. “The electric range works well for everyday driving, and the petrol engine covers longer journeys.”

The collaboration reflects JAECOO’s broader vision for forward-thinking mobility, combining safety, innovation and environmental awareness without sacrificing driving enjoyment.

“This brand resonates with me because of its commitment to performance, style and innovation,” Semenya concludes. “Those values mirror my own dedication to excellence.”