Great Wall Motors, the Chinese automaker, has unveiled the Ora iQ electric sedan at the Auto Expo 2020. GWM launched the Ora brand in 2018 and introduced three models – iQ, R1 and R2 (announced) – all built on the ME pure electric platform which is developed to offer the highest space and safety in its segment. The name ‘Ora’ pays tribute to Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler and the models are pitched to the youth of China who enjoy their urban life. The iQ in particular is aimed at young families.
The iQ is the first model under the Ora brand and is positioned as a new generation of pure electric compact cross-SUV. It is powered by a 54.35 kWh Farasis’ ternary lithium-ion battery and BorgWarner permanent magnet synchronous motor with 120 kW/280 Nm output, with an NEDC range of 401 km per charge.
The overall design style of iQ, as per the company is “concise, fashionable and full of a sense of future.” The iQ is well-equipped for its price with features such as full-LED headlights, cruise control, keyless entry, keyless start, leather seats, reverse camera and a 9-inch floating control screen. The selling point of the car is its rear seat space and the large boot. The iQ measures 4445/1735/1567 mm (L/W/H) with a 2615 mm wheelbase.
The design is kept simple in the interest of production costs, with the front and rear featuring a horizontal design theme. The lights and linked by a wraparound-style grille while the bumper, detailed with horizontal indents that run the width of the car flows into deep side pockets. The rugged look is pronounced at the sides where black plastic cladding accentuates higher ride height and long wheelbase. The DLO is a simple design to keep the cabin airy.
GWM Electric iQ sedan – Prospects in India & export markets
If GWM decides to export the iQ, the car could be a cheaper alternative to models such as the Nissan Leaf, Toyota Prius and Hyundai Ioniq. The extra ground clearance adds to the practicality and functionality in developing countries where bad roads are common.
Great Wall Motors has not officially confirmed the iQ for the Indian market, but it is nevertheless an interesting model given it combines the merits of a sedan with the ground clearance & styling properties of a crossover, two body types that are perceived as aspirational by the Indian car buyer. The highlight of the package is the price – The iQ sells in China for between 114,800 RMB to 119,800 RMB (INR 11.72 lakh to 12.23 lakh), an attractive price point for a car with a lengthy features list and generous space levels. If a high localization and cost optimization is achieved, the iQ could be a sensible alternative to the Tata Nexon EV and the Mahindra eXUV300.
