Chery Omoda E5 SUV here within months

CHERY has announced its first fully electric model for Australia, the Omoda E5 small crossover SUV, scheduled to arrive in Q2 priced “competitively” against the likes BYD Atto and the MG4 BEVs meaning circa high $30K to the mid $40K mark.

Adapted from Chery’s Omoda 5 ICE model, the E5 is a single front (electric) engine and front-wheel drive vehicle with a 150kW/340Nm traction motor delivering a claimed range of 430km (WLTP) thanks in part to the 61kW/h lithium-ion battery using electrons at 15.5kW/100km.

Said battery is capable of a 10-80 per cent recharge in 30 minutes via an 80kW recharger according to Chery information. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is clocked in 7.6 seconds.

Two variants will be available in Standard and Premium specification both with 90 per cent different interiors compared with the ICE-powered donor petrol Omoda 5.

“We have completely revised the interior and upgraded it for a more premium look and feel with more features and better textures... and an improved steering wheel,” said Chery Australia managing director Lucas Harris.

“The E5 is equipped with a variety of intelligent configurations, including a 12.3-inch super large, curved screen, panoramic sunroof, a digital instrument cluster, and a wealth of exterior and interior colour options, providing both style and functionality.”

After complaints about its hypersensitive ADAS calibration, Chery has revised the system “real world” in this and all other models through a program that entailed two Chery engineers assessing and suitably reconfiguring the ADAS to better suit local driving conditions.

Arguably more attractive as an EV, the E5 is a good looking, sharp edged five-door, five-seat vehicle with the same profile as the Omoda 5 albeit without a grille. It has a recharge plug sensibly mounted at the front in the middle simplifying the process.

A large plastic cover with small inlet frunk hides the vehicle’s under-bonnet entrails.

The face is feline and distinctive, the profile tapered and the rear end suitably edgy.

On the display model we noticed lustrous mica white duco and an impressive finish right down to the rather naff-looking alloy wheels carrying Continental rubber.

Multiple small caps flesh in gaps between the wheel spokes for aerodynamic optimisation.

On further inspection, inside is a step up on the Omoda 5 in every sense, better to look at, sit in, better feel, design, and materials. Two large curving screens control most functions.

Chery has seen fit to equip the E5 with the superior multi-link rear suspension from the Omoda GT launched this weekfor claimed improvements in ride and drive feel. Other dynamic elements would seem to have been carried over from the petrol Omoda 5.

The company is in the process of validating a V2L (vehicle to load) function for the E5 that may add to its practicality.

“We are excited to launch the Omoda E5 in Australia, with its combination of unique design, impressive range and advanced features, we are confident it will be a popular choice for Australian consumers who are increasingly seeking sustainable vehicle options,” added Mr Harris.

“The arrival of the Omoda E5 later this year is the next step in our local expansion strategy and underscores Chery's commitment to providing Australian drivers with access to advanced electric vehicle technology without compromising on performance or style”.

Further details regarding pricing and specification will be announced closer to the launch.