Dongfeng introduced the 007 (domestically known as Yipai 007) as a stylish electric fastback aimed at buyers looking for long range and premium features without the premium price tag.
The model is already available in China and has also been launched in a few RHD markets as Dongfeng continues to expand its global presence.
We recently spent some time with the global-spec Dongfeng 007 to see what it offers in terms of design, space, features and practicality, and whether it would work in the UK.
Design
The Dongfeng 007 adopts a sleek fastback silhouette, with a low bonnet, slim LED lighting signatures and clean body surfacing that feels more European.
Flush door handles, frameless doors and a full-width rear light bar contribute to the minimalist styling. The overall design is understated rather than dramatic, allowing the proportions to do most of the heavy lifting.
Unlike many electric saloons that rely on aggressive styling elements, the 007 keeps the exterior clean. Observing it up close, we feel that it could appeal to UK buyers looking for an alternative to the Tesla Model 3 or Hyundai Ioniq 6.
Interior
Inside, the Dongfeng 007 follows the same minimalist approach, with most controls integrated into the central touchscreen. The dashboard design focuses on digital interfaces rather than physical buttons.
A large floating infotainment display works alongside a fully digital instrument cluster, while the cabin incorporates soft-touch materials and ambient lighting. Wireless smartphone connectivity, over-the-air software updates and intelligent voice control are among the technology features available depending on the specification.
Electrically adjustable front seats, wireless phone charging, panoramic glass roof and a premium audio system are offered on high-spec variants globally. Rear passengers benefit from a flat floor made possible by the dedicated EV platform, improving legroom and overall practicality.
Experience in the 007
I spent time in the Dongfeng 007, and the frameless doors immediately give it a more premium first impression. It is a low-slung sedan, so at my height, I had to duck while getting in. Once inside, though, finding a comfortable driving position was easy.
I had about 10 cm between my head and the glass roof. The front seats felt much better than the Dongfeng Vigo’s, with a supportive backrest, a fairly wide seat base, good seat width, comfortable side bolsters for my broad frame, and a decent headrest.
The cabin is very minimalist, with almost no physical controls. That may not suit everyone, but Dongfeng has at least placed useful shortcuts for volume and air-conditioning on the steering wheel.
I also liked the twin wireless phone chargers and the large storage space under the centre console, which would find everyday use. The side mirrors are wide and give a good view behind, but rear visibility is limited because of the sloping roofline and large rear headrests.
The rear seat has some strengths. The backrest and headrests are comfortable, there is a centre armrest with cupholders, and passengers get USB ports and rear AC vents. The large glass roof, rear window and small quarter glass panels prevent the cabin from feeling claustrophobic.
However, the rear is not ideal for someone 6 feet tall. I had about 6 cm of knee room and about 6 cm of headroom, but my knees sat high because of the battery pack, and I could not slide my shoe under the front seat.
There is no recline function, no real way to stretch out, and the floor could have been lower. I would not find it very comfortable over long distances.
Specifications
The Dongfeng 007 measures approximately 4,880 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width and 1,470 mm in height, while the wheelbase measures 2,915 mm.
It is available with multiple battery and motor configurations depending on the market. Rear-wheel-drive versions focus on efficiency and range, while higher-performance variants add dual motors and all-wheel drive.
The flagship version produces approximately 400 kW (544 PS) and accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in around 3.9 seconds.
Depending on the battery specification, Dongfeng quotes an official CLTC driving range of up to around 1,200 km (746 miles) for the range-extender version.
For the pure-electric model, official right-hand-drive export specifications now quote a WLTP driving range of up to 323 miles (520 km). A 30-80% SoC level is achieved in about 16 minutes.
The Dongfeng 007 is built on the brand’s dedicated electric platform and employs a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. Higher-spec variants benefit from adaptive chassis tuning and multiple driving modes. Disc brakes are fitted at all four corners.
The driver assistance package includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) and a 360-degree surround-view camera.
Higher specifications also offer intelligent parking assistance and advanced highway driving functions.
Pricing & Release Date
The Dongfeng 007 is not officially sold in the UK, and Dongfeng has not yet announced plans to introduce the model here. However, as the company continues expanding into overseas markets, the 007 would be a logical candidate for Europe given its size, technology and electric powertrain.
When it eventually arrives on UK shores, expect the 007 to disrupt the market with an aggressive estimated price bracket of £32,000 to £40,000.
At that point, we expect that it won’t just compete with established electric saloons like the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and BYD Seal, but to also radically undercut them on a price-per-feature basis.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
