Chinese automakers are intensifying their competition with the Tesla Model Y, with the Voyah Zhiyin, a mid-size electric SUV, emerging as the latest entrant. Set to become the fourth model under the Dongfeng Motor-owned premium brand, preliminary details of the upcoming EV have been unveiled.
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has confirmed the Dongfeng-Nissan joint venture plant in Wuhan, China, as the production site for the Voyah Zhiyin. This facility, responsible for producing the Nissan Ariya domestically, will now add this new electric SUV to its portfolio.
Measuring 4,725 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,636 mm/1,653 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,900 mm, the Voyah Zhiyin has been approved by MIIT for six different configurations. Among these are four 2WD configurations, two featuring a 215 kW motor and two with a 230 kW motor, both sourced from Wuhan-based supplier Zhixin Technology. The remaining two configurations are 4WD, utilizing a pair of 160 kW motors sourced from a nearby OEM.
The base 2WD and top-tier 4WD configurations specified by MIIT will come equipped with a lithium iron phosphate battery pack. For the mid-tier 2WD configurations featuring the 230 kW motor, one will utilize a lithium iron phosphate battery pack, while the other will use a ternary lithium-ion battery pack.
A report by CarNewsChina has also hinted at a 390 kW 4WD configuration, suggesting that one of the 2WD configurations may include a CATL-made 109 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack, offering a CLTC range of up to 901 km.
Despite its modern crossover appearance, the Voyah Zhiyin boasts some distinctive design elements. The front fascia features split headlights, with a curvy, horizontally laid DRL unit on top and a vertical assembly of low- and high-beam lights below. The nose section appears mostly covered, with only a slim opening at the top for airflow, directed towards the bonnet’s bifurcated dipped section.
On the sides, the EV offers either 20-inch fully covered aero wheels or regular 20-inch five-spoke wheels, depending on the configuration. The door handles are seamlessly integrated, providing a clean aesthetic. However, some design elements, such as the crease lines on the door panels and body, and the raised roof rails, could be seen as less appealing.
The rear of the Voyah Zhiyin features a bold brand inscription, full-width lighting, and gloss black trim, giving it a somewhat ostentatious look. Priced at around 200,000 yuan (25,644 euros), the electric SUV is expected to go on sale in China in the fourth quarter of this year, with a potential entry into select European markets shortly thereafter.
