Recently, we learned from the official Chery iCAR channel that the iCAR V23 will start pre-sales at the 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show and officially launch by the end of this year. Jointly developed by Chery Automobile and Zhimi Technology, the vehicle is positioned as a pure electric compact SUV, available in both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions. The 2024 Guangzhou Auto Show will officially open on November 15.
In terms of exterior design, the iCAR V23 adopts the popular “boxy” shape, featuring round headlights, a slightly raised hood, hidden door handles, side steps, and widened wheel arches. The charging port is located on the right rear side, while the area between the C and D pillars has a closed-off design.
At the rear, the iCAR V23 is equipped with an "external backpack-style" storage box. This storage box connects with the vehicle's interior, providing extra storage space, but it cannot be opened from the outside. The vehicle's dimensions are 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm. These dimensions are close to the iCAR 03 (4,406 mm in length, 1,910 mm in width, 1,715 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,715 mm).
Additionally, information from official filings reveals that the iCAR V23 has an approach angle of 42/43 degrees, a departure angle of 40/41 degrees, and a minimum ground clearance of 206/212 mm (for two-wheel-drive/four-wheel-drive versions). It offers 19-inch and 21-inch wheel options. The vehicle is also equipped with four millimeter-wave radars, supporting L2+ level driver assistance functions.
Inside, the iCAR V23 features a large floating central control screen powered by an 8155 chip, with physical buttons placed below the display. The vehicle also comes with a multifunctional steering wheel. In terms of configuration, the iCAR V23 includes a heat pump system, a premium sound system from Yanfeng Feishi, and optional digital instrument clusters and roof racks.
As for power, the iCAR V23 is built on a new platform architecture and offers a choice between a single-motor rear-wheel-drive version and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive version. The rear-wheel-drive model has a peak motor power of 100 kW, with a driving range of over 400 km (specific test conditions unknown). The all-wheel-drive model features a front motor with a peak power of 55 kW and a rear motor with 100 kW, offering a range of over 500 km (test conditions unknown). Other specific parameters have yet to be disclosed by the manufacturer.
Looking at the current product plan, the iCAR V23 is the first model in the V series, which is aimed at off-road enthusiasts. The existing iCAR 03/03T, part of the 0 series, focuses more on a refined, tech-driven style. Based on sales data, the iCAR 03 achieved 4,585 units sold in September. Considering the iCAR 03 is priced between 109,800 and 169,800 RMB, it's expected that the iCAR V23 will come at a higher price point. What do you think the iCAR V23's price will be? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
