China’s reveals an EV for the masses

THE evolution of the electric vehicle has reached a new landmark with the launch in China of the Ora R1. While Tesla and other Western car makers pursue the luxury end of the market, Great Wall Motor is targeting the mass market and the teeming millions in the country’s mega-cities with the cheapest and certainly the cutest, EV so far – the Ora R1.

Currently only available in China, this tiny urban car will cost from $8,680 (£6,820) after incentives and it will have almost 200 miles of range, says the company.

Based on the concept vehicle unveiled earlier this year at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show, the Ora R1 is equipped with a 33 kWh battery, which is relatively small even for a car of this size. The real world range therefore is likely to be closer to 150 miles.

The model is backed by a three-year or 120,000 km guarantee for the whole vehicle, and an eight-year or 150,000 km guarantee for core components.

As Ning Shuyong, general manager of ORA and vice president of Great Wall Motor explains, the Ora R1 is about more than just its low cost price, it represents a different approach to owning a vehicle.

“As a new market entrant, ORA R1 delivers an unprecedented experience to drivers. Ora replaces the traditional sales, service, spare parts and surveys dealershipcentered model that is common in China with a network consisting of Ora Home, experience centres and smart outlets in the

central business districts of Chinese cities.

“In addition, the big data cloud that is created as the result of the information collected from the Ora app, the Ora shopping site and the Tmall e-shop opens the way to the development of multiple scenarios for offline sales and services as well as new transportation services for both drivers and passengers,” he said at launch.

Nissan meanwhile has revealed a top of the range version of its popular Nissan Leaf which offers more power, greater range and enhanced technology. This limited edition – of which only 5,000 units will be produced for Europe – features a higher output capable of delivering 160 kW (217 PS) of power; 340Nm of torque; and a longer driving range expected to be up to 239 miles from a single charge of the 62 kWh capacity battery. With the more powerful motor, acceleration from 50mph to 75mph is nearly 13% quicker. This allows the LEAF e+ to confidently pass slower-moving vehicles, exit corners faster and merge seamlessly with fast-moving traffic.

Nissan has also launched a new Leaf 3.Zero model which features interior upgrades but retains the 40kWh battery.

The Nissan LEAF 3.ZERO e+ Limited Edition, priced from £36,795 including Government grant, is also available to order now, as is the upgraded Leaf 3.Zero, which starts at £31,095, including grant.