Scissor Doors & Affordable Price for Dongfeng eπ 007 EV Unveiled

Electric vehicle can travel 746 miles on one charge using range extender.

The Chinese car company Dongfeng has recently introduced its electric vehicle sub-brand, ep, and their answer to the Tesla Model 3 is the 007. This model boasts numerous high-end features and remains competitively priced at only 159,000 yuan, equivalent to about $22,093 in today’s exchange rates.

Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely, garnered attention at the recent 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas with its high-end EV sedan, the 007. Although sharing a name with the famous fictional spy, this model is distinct from the one showcased by Zeekr. The ep 007 boasts a sophisticated mid-size structure with an elegant appearance highlighted by its slim daytime running lights, available scissor doors, and fastback shape. Its interactive lighting system gives the rear of the vehicle a resemblance to the Audi Q8.

However, the aesthetic of the vehicle is not its only noteworthy feature. The electric vehicle company claims that the model boasts a drag coefficient of 0.209 Cd, comparable to other highly aerodynamic cars such as the Tesla Model S. This impressive statistic results in notable range capabilities, which can be even enhanced with the inclusion of a range extender choice.

Called the 200Pro, the powertrain in the extended range model features a 1.5-liter petrol engine and a 28.39 kWh battery unit, resulting in an overall CLTC-rated distance of 746 miles. It boasts a sole electric motor generating 215 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque.

The electric motor arrangement in the basic pure EV model is identical to that of the mid-range EV version, equipped with a 56.83 kWh battery. This combination allows for a maximum driving distance of 329 miles. Meanwhile, the mid-spec EV trim also boasts a single motor, but it is accompanied by a bigger 70.26 kWh battery, resulting in a power output of 268 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. As a result, the driving range extends to 385 miles, and the acceleration from zero to 60 mph can be achieved in just 5.8 seconds.

In pursuit of peak performance, the flagship ep 007 EV boasts a dual-motor configuration using a similar battery pack. This powerful setup produces 536 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds. However, due to the added weight and energy usage, the range of this EV is reduced to 336 miles. Fortunately, this model can efficiently charge from 30% to 80% in only 26 minutes with a DC fast charger.

It is worth mentioning that the range data is derived from CLTC’s criteria, which tend to be more lenient than the EPA standards typically utilized in the United States.

As previously stated, the ep 007 boasts a wide range of luxurious features, such as the cutting-edge ep PILOT system for advanced driving assistance, facial recognition technology for unlocking doors, a high-quality 20-speaker sound system, and a state-of-the-art ambient lighting system with 64 customizable colors. The electric vehicle also comes equipped with a folding instrument cluster inspired by the design in the renowned McLaren 720S. And all of this is offered at an affordable price point of under $25,000.

As Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers respond to the demand for cost-effective EVs, is it time for American policymakers to reconsider the import tax on cars manufactured in China? Share your opinions in the comment section.