Chery’s new-energy vehicle sub-brand, iCAUR, has upped it model offerings with the introduction of the V23, a boxy, retro-inspired electric SUV aimed at broadening access to zero-emission motoring.
Launched in two derivatives, the V23 slots in below the recently revealed 03T, offering a blend of utilitarian styling and modern electric powertrains. The newcomer is distinguished by its upright stance, flat bonnet and squared-off proportions, featuring circular headlamp surrounds, chunky bumpers and pronounced wheel arches. A notable design element at the rear is the Lego-inspired brake light mounted on the tailgate.
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The local line-up consists of a rear-wheel-drive 2WD model and an all-wheel-drive AWD flagship. Visual differentiation between the two is limited to the wheel sizes, with the 2WD rolling on 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255/55 tyres, while the AWD rides on 21-inch items fitted with 265/45 rubber. Both variants use LED lighting technology.
Under the skin, the iCAUR V23 2WD employs a single electric motor driving the rear axle, producing 100 kW and 180 Nm of torque. iCAUR claims a 0-100 km/h time of 11 seconds and a top speed of 140 km/h.
Power is drawn from a 59,93 kWh battery pack, delivering an NEDC-estimated range of 360 km. Energy consumption is rated at 20 kWh/100 km. The AWD derivative uses a dual-motor setup pushing combined outputs to 155 kW and 292 N.m. The 0-100 km/h sprint drops to 7,5 seconds, while the larger 81,8 kWh battery extends the claimed range to 430 km (NEDC). Energy consumption for the AWD is listed at 22 kWh/100 km.
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Charging capabilities vary slightly between the two models. When connected to a DC fast charger, the 2WD requires 36 minutes to replenish from 20% to 80%. The AWD takes an additional six minutes for the same charge cycle.
The suspension setup comprises MacPherson struts at the front and a multilink arrangement at the rear, while braking is managed by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear.
Despite its compact exterior length of 4 220 mm, the V23 capitalises on a 2 735 mm wheelbase to maximise interior space. The cabin is specified to accommodate five occupants, with a standard boot capacity of 372 litres that expands to 994 litres with the rear bench folded flat.
The South African specification is generous on the entry-level model. Standard features include leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats with ventilation and a 15,4-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A seven-speaker iCAUR sound system is also fitted. The AWD derivative adds heating functionality for the front seats.
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Safety equipment across the range includes six crash bags (dual front, front-side and curtain), ISOFIX child seat anchors, as well as Electronic Stability Control and traction control. The 2WD receives cruise control and a reverse camera, while the AWD gains a 540-degree surround view camera system and a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Spot Detection.
Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager at iCAUR South Africa, said the V23 is intended to offer a distinctive value proposition in the local electric vehicle segment. “It brings a sense of fun and individuality to the market, with a design and character created to bring more joy to South African roads.”
Pricing for the iCAUR V23 starts at R519 900 for the 2WD, while the AWD is priced at R669 900. The range is backed by an 8-year or 200 000 km vehicle warranty, an 8-year or 160 000 km power battery warranty for the first owner, and a 5-year or 100 000 km service plan. Roadside assistance is included for eight years or 200 000 km.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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