Chery has officially unveiled the iCar V23, a compact all-electric SUV that combines retro off-road styling with state-of-the-art EV technology. This versatile vehicle is available in three trims—offering rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations—with a maximum CLTC range of 501 km. Starting at an accessible 13,700 USD, the iCar V23 presents an impressive blend of affordability and performance.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The iCar V23 adopts a distinctive off-road aesthetic, highlighted by a smoked front grille bearing the iCar logo and iconic round headlights. Its boxy silhouette pays homage to classic off-roaders while integrating modern touches such as hidden door handles, a roof luggage rack, and an external rear storage container. The SUV is offered in six striking colors: orange, black, gray, green, silver, and white.
Compact yet practical, the iCar V23 measures 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm. Its off-road credentials are bolstered by approach angles of up to 43°, departure angles of up to 41°, and a minimum ground clearance of 210 mm for the AWD variant. A side-opening rear door with an integrated “backpack” for emergency tools enhances utility while maintaining the retro-inspired design.
Interior Features and Advanced Technology
Inside, the iCar V23 offers a modern cabin that contrasts its rugged exterior. The interior is defined by a sleek white-and-black color palette, straight-line design elements, and circular control knobs that evoke both durability and sophistication. A 15.4-inch 2.5K central touchscreen, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, provides seamless infotainment capabilities, including CarPlay support.
Seating configurations prioritize flexibility, with a 2×2 arrangement and foldable rear seats that expand cargo capacity to 744 liters. Front seats are electrically adjustable, while a seven-speaker audio system ensures a high-quality in-car experience. Additional conveniences include under-seat storage compartments and a 90-liter underfloor trunk, emphasizing the vehicle’s practical design.
Performance and Battery Specifications
Performance is a key highlight of the iCar V23, with three trim options to suit varying needs:
- Youth Edition (RWD): Powered by a 100 kW (134 hp) motor delivering 180 Nm of torque, this version is equipped with a 47.28 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, providing a CLTC range of 301 km.
- RWD Trim: Features the same 100 kW (134 hp) motor but upgrades to a 59.93 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, extending the range to 401 km.
- AWD Trim: Adds a 55 kW (74 hp) front motor, boosting total output to 211 hp and 292 Nm of torque. This variant features an 81.76 kWh ternary lithium battery, enabling a maximum range of 501 km and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.
All trims support fast charging, achieving a 30-80% charge in just 30 minutes. Additionally, a 3.3 kW external discharge function allows users to power external devices, adding versatility for outdoor and emergency use.
Customization and Safety Features
The iCar V23 stands out for its extensive customization options, offering 24 modular upgrade interfaces. These include detachable fenders, off-road bumpers, and other components, allowing owners to tailor the vehicle to their preferences.
Safety is another strong suit, with a comprehensive driver assistance suite powered by Horizon Robotics J3 and Texas Instruments TDA4 chips. Key features include high-speed navigation, emergency lane keeping, traffic jam assistance, and automatic, remote, and memory parking. The system integrates advanced sensors, including an 8-megapixel front-view camera, a 3-megapixel surround-view camera, five millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic radars for precise functionality.
Conclusion
The Chery iCar V23 redefines the compact electric SUV segment with its unique blend of retro styling, cutting-edge technology, and versatile performance. Whether for urban commutes or light off-road adventures, its robust specifications and affordable pricing make it an appealing choice for a wide range of drivers. With its customizable features and advanced safety systems, the iCar V23 is a forward-thinking EV designed to meet diverse lifestyle needs.
