Update: ‘Design’ and ‘Release Date’ sections added.
In July 2022, Chinese automaker Chery launched a new compact SUV called Omoda 5 at home. Now, it is developing an electric variant, and reportedly plans to launch it in Europe, UK and Australia. Here’s what we know about the Chery Omoda 5 EV.
Design
Given that the fully-electric version of the Omoda 5 will be a conversion of the combustion model rather than being based on a dedicated platform, we surmise that the basic design will be retained. Therefore, expect the EV to feature a similar urban crossover-SUV look with a sloped roof, contrasting two-tone paint, vertically-stacked LED headlights, and slender T-shaped DRLs.
The taut body lines & sporty roof spoiler seen in the standard model should remain, though Chery could revise the front and rear bumper for lower aero drag, and delete the faux diffuser tips too. Similarly, we expect the electric SUV to sport the same stylish LED taillights and black body cladding, but it is likely to get new wheel designs in order to minimize drag. Chery could carry over the same hood design with the ‘power bulge’, though the bold-looking grille could be covered for aero benefit.
Features
At 4,400 mm long, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,588 mm in height, the Chery Omoda 5 is roughly as big as a Jeep Compass or a Nissan Qashqai. It has a typical Chinese SUV design, with split headlights, a huge grille, bold color highlights, and a luxury car-like minimalist, digital-heavy interior. The Chery Omoda 5 might not be much different on the looks, outside or inside.
Chery conducted an open survey for the Omoda 5 EV in Malaysia to understand expectations from prospective customers through its local Facebook page and revealed some details of the future model in that survey. The electric SUV will measure 4,374 mm in length, 1,824 mm in width, and 1,585 mm in height. It will have the same wheelbase as its donor model – 2,630 mm wheelbase.
Powertrain
As per the details published in the same survey, the powertrain of Chery Omoda 5 EV, presumably consisting a single motor mounted on the front axle, will produce 150 kW (201 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb.-ft.) of torque. Power will come from a 64 kWh battery pack that delivers a WLTP range of 450 km (280 miles). Fast-charging from 0 to 80% SoC will take 40 minutes, and normal charging at lower power will take five hours.
Production & Rivals
According to a report Drive published on August 1, 2022, the Chery Omoda 5 EV will enter production in September 2023 and arrive in Europe by the end of the same year. Chery is benchmarking the Omoda 5 EV against the Hyundai Kona Electric and claims it will be “much better” than the MG ZS EV. The Omoda 5 EV will compete with the BYD Atto 3 as well.
As per a WhichCar report dated February 19, 2023, the new Omoda 5 EV could be introduced in Australia in early 2024. While Chery has not disclosed pricing details for the electric SUV, the Australian publication estimates it to start from around AUD 45,000 (approx. USD 30,100).
Launch Markets
The Chery Omoda 5’s initial European markets could be Germany, Italy, France, and Spain. According to a report Auto Express released on February 15, 2023, Chery plans to enter the UK in early 2024 with the Omoda 5 combustion model, which will soon be followed by the hybrid and electric variants.
TopElectricSUV says
Those looking for an electric SUV that’s more compact and/or cheaper than the VW ID.4 could find the Chery Omoda 5 EV appealing. It is expected to offer better performance, compared to many of its rivals, including the Kia Niro EV, and perhaps a longer range as well. It remains to be seen if it can match European customers’ tastes.
Chery Omoda 5 EV FAQs
What is the Chery Omoda 5 EV release date?
The Chery Omoda 5 EV will debut later this year.
What will be the Chery Omoda 5 EV price?
The base Omoda 5 EV will likely cost in the EUR 30,000-35,000 range.
Which models will be Chery Omoda 5 EV rivals?
The Omoda 5 Electric will compete with the BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Kona Electric & Kia Niro EV.
Featured Image Source: Chery
I got my Master’s in Business Management & Administration and have been an International Automotive News Editor since 2014. I’ve traveled to global motor shows and automotive events, driven various types of vehicles, and focused on hybrid and electric cars in the last 4 years.