Photo: Aiways
Calling itself the “first Chinese startup to deliver EVs to Europe, at time of increased interest and investment in electromobility,” Aiways announced this week the arrival on the Old Continent of the first 500 units of its U5 electric SUV.
The U5 SUV was supposed to be shown in its final production form in March at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show, but the ongoing health crisis messed with the plans the Chinese had. It won’t be stopping the arrival of the cars, though, which are expected to land on the French island of Corsica in July. There, the electric SUVs will be deployed as part of the fleet of cars operated by rental company Hertz.
“We have been encouraged by recent moves from European leaders, such as those from the French government and others, to invest in and grow the EV market,” said in a statement Alexander Klose, Executive VP Overseas Operation at Aiways.
“During our record-breaking EV prototype drive last year, we learned that European car buyers are looking for more practical zero emission choices. We are proud to be part of this movement and increase access to EVs for consumers.”
The Chinese SUV promises more than decent performances. It is powered by a 63 kWh battery, and the SUV has a total all electric range of about 460 km (285 miles).
The U5 was put through its paces last year, when a team set off onboard such an SUV on a 15,022 km (9,334 miles) journey from Xi-an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, all the way to Europe, to Frankfurt. During the drive, which was completed at the end of the 53rd day, the SUV had to be plugged in roughly 32 times.
Aiways did not say exactly when deliveries to private customers would begin, but that’s likely to happen by the end of the year.
“We have been encouraged by recent moves from European leaders, such as those from the French government and others, to invest in and grow the EV market,” said in a statement Alexander Klose, Executive VP Overseas Operation at Aiways.
“During our record-breaking EV prototype drive last year, we learned that European car buyers are looking for more practical zero emission choices. We are proud to be part of this movement and increase access to EVs for consumers.”
The Chinese SUV promises more than decent performances. It is powered by a 63 kWh battery, and the SUV has a total all electric range of about 460 km (285 miles).
The U5 was put through its paces last year, when a team set off onboard such an SUV on a 15,022 km (9,334 miles) journey from Xi-an, the capital of Shaanxi Province, all the way to Europe, to Frankfurt. During the drive, which was completed at the end of the 53rd day, the SUV had to be plugged in roughly 32 times.
Aiways did not say exactly when deliveries to private customers would begin, but that’s likely to happen by the end of the year.
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