Chery just launched the iCar V23, a compact all-electric SUV that blends retro off-road styling with modern EV technology. It has three trims, offering rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options, and a maximum CLTC range of 501 km. The iCar V23 starts at 13,700 USD.
The iCar V23 adopts a classic off-road aesthetic with a smoked front grille featuring the iCar logo and round headlights. Its squared-off silhouette, reminiscent of iconic off-roaders, is complemented by a roof luggage rack, hidden door handles, and an external rear storage container. Six color optionsโorange, black, gray, green, silver, and whiteโcater to diverse tastes.
The vehicleโs dimensions of 4,220 mm (L), 1,915 mm (W), and 1,845 mm (H) with a 2,735 mm wheelbase reflect its compact build. Practical features such as approach angles of up to 43ยฐ, departure angles of up to 41ยฐ, and a minimum ground clearance of 210 mm (AWD) underscore its light off-road capabilities.
At the rear, a side-opening door houses an integrated โbackpackโ for emergency tools. This retro-inspired feature aligns with the vehicleโs practical and adventurous design ethos, offering utility while maintaining its distinctive style.
Despite its retro exterior, the cabin of the iCar V23 is thoroughly modern. The interior features a white and black color scheme, straight lines, and circular knobs, giving it a rugged yet contemporary feel. A 15.4-inch 2.5K central touchscreen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip supports CarPlay and offers advanced infotainment functions.
Practicality is a key focus, with a versatile 2ร2 seating arrangement and foldable rear seats creating up to 744 liters of flat cargo space. Front seats are electrically adjustable, and the seven-speaker audio system enhances the in-car experience. Additional storage solutions include under-seat compartments and a 90-liter underfloor trunk space.
The iCar V23 boasts extensive customization potential. Its 24 modular upgrade interfaces, including detachable fenders and off-road bumpers, allow users to personalize the vehicle to suit their preferences.
The iCar V23 has a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems powered by a Horizon Robotics J3 chip and Texas Instruments TDA4 chip. Key features include high-speed navigation, emergency lane keeping, traffic jam assistance, and automatic, remote, and memory parking. The system relies on an 8-megapixel front-view camera, a 3-megapixel surround-view camera, five millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars for precise operation.
Three configurations are available:
- Youth Edition with RWD: A 100 kW (134 hp) motor with 180 Nm torque and a 47.28 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery providing a 301 km CLTC range.
- RWD: A 100 kW (134 hp) motor with 180 Nm torque and a 59.93 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery providing a 401 km CLTC range.
- AWD: An additional 55 kW (74 hp) front motor for a combined output of 211 hp and 292 Nm torque, with an 81.76 kWh ternary lithium battery delivering a 501 km CLTC range.
The AWD version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds. Both trims support fast charging, replenishing the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes, and feature a 3.3 kW external discharge function for powering external devices.