Oz's cheapest car axed

Australia’s cheapest car, the $9,990 Chery J1, is no more due to safety regulation changes.

The Chinese-made five-door hatch has been terminated after new laws, dictating all new cars must be fitted with electronic stability control, were introduced at the start of November.

So far in 2013 Chery has managed to sell just 165 J1’s, despite its rock-bottom price tag.

Also falling victim to the new laws is the J1’s Chinese cousin, the Great Wall X240 SUV which sold for $23,990.