EPCR, the tournament organiser of the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup, has announced OMODA | JAECOO as its Official Automotive Partner for the 2024/25 season, marking a new chapter for international club rugby’s premier competitions. 

A ground-breaking partnership, it is the first time EPCR has teamed up with an automotive brand as the organisation looks to unlock new commercial opportunities, introduce new revenue sources and drive expansion within the sport.

It also marks the first-ever global, multi-market sports sponsorship for Chery International, the parent group of OMODA | JAECOO, with the objective of cementing the brand’s presence in their key markets, including South Africa, the UK, and Italy.

EPCR and OMODA | JAECOO are united by the shared values of sustainability and innovation. OMODA | JAECOO is at the forefront of sustainable development, leading the way in intelligent, electrified automotive innovation. The company is dedicated to advancing energy transformation in the automotive sector and the pursuit of carbon neutrality.

In South Africa, the automaker plans to introduce all-electric and plug-in hybrid models to the local lineup. The J6 is the first electric vehicle to wear the JAECOO badge and will appeal to adventurous types with a passion for sustainability. In other markets, the J6 is available with two powertrain options: a 2WD model with 184 kW and 220 N.m of torque and a 4WD variant with 279 kW and 385 N.m.

The J7 lineup will grow to accommodate the J7 PHEV, providing consumers with an even more efficient alternative, reduced emissions courtesy of the electric motor, and the flexibility of a combustion engine. Early estimates show a claimed fuel-use figure of 5.99L/100 km, but a recent test in China yielded results of just 3.3L/100 km. Additional details regarding the J6 and J7 PHEV will follow in the coming months.

This commitment to carbon neutrality aligns closely with EPCR’s sustainability goals, which include the ambition to make the EPCR Finals Net Zero by 2030 as part of its impACT sustainability strategy.

EPCR and OMODA | JAECOO are also both deeply focused on connectivity. In 2023/24, EPCR achieved record-breaking attendance, with 7.5 million fans filling stadiums and millions more tuning in one TV and engaging on digital platforms, putting fans at the heart of the action. OMODA | JAECOO focuses on innovative user experiences with vehicles that integrate cutting-edge connectivity.

“We’re excited not only to partner with OMODA | JAECOO but also to introduce a new brand to the world of rugby,” commented Jacques Raynaud, EPCR CEO.

“It is an incredibly exciting time for club rugby, full of challenges and opportunities, and commercial growth is essential for ensuring a sustainable future. This season, we have seen unprecedented sponsor interest, and we are proud to welcome OMODA | JAECOO to our growing sponsorship family. Building purposeful partnerships is a core element of our sustainability strategy, and we are thrilled to collaborate with an innovative brand like OMODA | JAECOO,” added Raynaud.

“We look forward to partnering with the EPCR and bringing our brands to the wide and discerning audience of the rugby world. Both OMODA & JAECOO and the EPCR share many similar values, from sustainability to intelligent connectivity and overall accessibility,” said Victor Zhang, UK Director, OMODA & JAECOO.

“We’re thrilled to present our vehicles throughout the upcoming season and beyond,” commented Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for OMODA & JAECOO South Africa. OMODA and JAECOO models boast sophisticated design, advanced powertrains and connected technology, ensuring every journey is a rewarding experience. Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 EPCR season, we’re excited to take our travels to new heights—with style and confidence.”

The brand is also backing EPCR Challenge Cup club, Gloucester Rugby for the 2024/25 season, reinforcing its dedication to the sport.

EPCR’s 30th season kicks off on Friday, 6 December, and will showcase the very best international clubs and world-class talent. Bath Rugby take on Stade Rochelais at The Rec in the first match of Investec Champions Cup (KO 2000 local time), and the EPCR Challenge Cup gets underway with Dragons RFC v Montpellier Hérault Rugby (Rodney Parade, KO 2000 local time) and Gloucester Rugby v Edinburgh Rugby (Kingsholm, KO 2000).

For all Investec Champions Cup fixtures, click here.

For all EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures, click here.