While China is not short of SUVs, local brands continue to expand their lineups in a bid to claim a bigger slice of the pie. The latest example is the iCar V23, said to be developed by Chery’s new electric vehicle brand in partnership with Xiaomi-owned Zhimi Technology. The all-electric SUV looks like a brutalist mishmash of styling cues borrowed from iconic off-roaders like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Land Rover Defender and the classic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40.
The iCar V23 will be the second production model from the Chery-backed brand, following the iCar 03 SUV earlier this year. Despite its rugged appearance, the new SUV is actually smaller than its sibling, measuring 4,220 mm long, 1,915 mm wide and 1,845 mm tall, with a 2,730 mm wheelbase. Up front, the round LED headlights, grille and bonnet intake are reminiscent of the Land Cruiser FJ40, as are the boxy front and rear fenders. The front bumper and flat windscreen, on the other hand, give off Jeep Wrangler vibes.
The minimalist surfacing and slab-sided profile appear to be inspired by the Land Rover Defender, although the flush door handles are a neat and rather unique touch. iCar has also looked to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class for inspiration in designing the rear end, particularly around the low-set LED taillights. Like its rivals, the rugged look is completed by a tailgate-mounted box, mimicking a spare wheel.
The interior is typical of modern EVs, with a large infotainment screen dominating the dashboard, a Defender-style steering wheel, rectangular air conditioning vents and a mix of black and white leather upholstery. An array of sensors are integrated around the body to support Level 2+ ADAS capability.
Detailed specifications have not been released by the company, other than confirming that the car will be available in both RWD and AWD forms. According to Chinese media, the iCar V23 will be offered with single and dual electric motors, drawing power from a CATL battery pack. Driving range is reported to be over 400 km for the AWD version and more than 500 km for the RWD model.
The iCar V23 is said to make its full debut on April 12, before making its public debut at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show. The car is slated for a launch in China in the second half of this year, where it will rival the likes of SAIC, Wuling and GM’s Baojun Yep Plus. Chinese media reports indicate that Xiaomi’s Zhimi Technology and Chery will continue their partnership, with six to eight new models expected to be introduced in China over the next three years.
Sơn Phạm (Forum.autodaily.vn)
GAC Aion Hyper HT: Sporty Electric Car with Butterfly Doors and Rectangular Steering Wheel
The rear door in wing shape is the sole highlight in the overall monotonous design of the pure electric SUV model Aion Hyper HT.
Ford Explorer EV 2023: Impressive Design, Nearly 500 km Range
The all-electric Ford Explorer, specifically designed for the European market, appears more compact compared to the internal combustion engine version with a length under 4.5m “to explore the smaller cities of Europe.”
Mazda CX-70 Launch Delayed to 2024
The Mazda CX-70 is similar in size to the CX-90 and is equipped with the same electric-powered engine as its predecessor.
Omoda introduces 5 electric versions, set to launch in Vietnam this year
The Omoda 5 EV belongs to the B-segment pure electric SUV category, directly competing with the VinFast VF 6. The car is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor producing 204 horsepower and a 61 kWh battery pack, allowing for a maximum range of approximately 450 km.
