Latest news with #V23
Man of Many
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Man of Many
Chery's iCar Off-Road Brand Confirmed for Australia, Electric V23 Model On the Cards
By Ben McKimm - News Published: 23 May 2025 Share Copy Link Readtime: 4 min Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more. For more information on how we test products, click here. Chery's off-road EV brand 'iCar' set to launch in Australia after the UK by next year Name changed to 'iCaur' due to trademark issue The first vehicle is likely to be V23 compact off-roader to rival the Suzuki Jimny Expected to be priced less than AUD$40,000 plus on-roads One of the stars of the Shanghai Auto Show, Chery's off-road brand 'iCar,' is confirmed for Australia. The first car to arrive for local markets will be the iCar V23, according to a company representative who spoke to 'Because Jaecoo has the 03 exported already, we're going to do the V23 under iCaur (for overseas markets).' The V23 is a compact electric off-roader and soon-to-be range-extender hybrid that will be available to 'global markets' from mid-2026. With Jeep Wrangler vibes and a length (4,220 mm) that would place it closer to a five-door Suzuki Jimny (3,965mm), the car will appeal to prospective buyers who want an off-road aesthetic, but will likely never leave the inner city streets of Sydney or Melbourne. The car, which reminds us of Apple's scrapped EV project, will arrive with a different name to avoid trademark issues. Set to be called 'iCaur,' the V23 will likely be followed by the larger Jeep Wrangler-sized V25 hybrid SUV in late 2026 before the smaller V21 electric SUV arrives in 2027. Here's everything you need to know! iCar V23 | Image: Supplied / iCar While it looks like a Temu car, it ticks all the usual SUV design cues with those chunky wheel-arches, slab-sided proportions and mean-looking front-end. Hence, despite being just 4,220mm in length, it sure does pack a punch in terms of sheer road presence. Despite its small stature, performance is just fine, and certainly better than a Suzuki Jimny because of that EV powertrain. Expect both the single and dual motor versions to arrive in Australia, and here's what power and range look like: Single-motor iCar V23 (China specifications) : 100kW/180Nm 47 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery Up to 300km range (CLTC) : Dual-motor Single-motor iCar V23 (China specifications) : 155kW 81 kWh (NMC) battery Up to 500km range (CLTC) : What stands out the most is that 300km range (CLTC) figure—it might not be enough. The CLTC cycle is far more lenient than the WLTP figure standard in Australia, and we'd only expect 250km of WLTP range when certified for our market. We don't see how this is enough to make it a true off-roader for Australia. It won't have enough range to make it out of the city, but the range-extender hybrid that's rumoured to arrive later could fix this issue. Despite the tough looks, off-road ability is limited. The iCar V23 has only 210mm ground clearance, which is similar to a Toyota RAV4 (213 mm). On a positive note, it does have 43- and 41-degree approach and departure angles, which should help it out on steep carpark entries and exits. iCar V23 | Image: Supplied / iCar On the inside, the interior looks reasonably plush, while the steering wheel looks like a Range Rover and is flanked by actual buttons and a massive 15.4-inch touchscreen, which is standard fare these days. The large infotainment system runs a Snapdragon 8155 chip in China, and you get safety features like ADAS, all-around cameras and more. Whether or not all of these features arrive in overseas markets like Australia is still up for question, but they usually do. Storage-wise, boot capacity is an ample 744 litres. Publications, including Autocar and Drive, say that the iCar V23 is going to arrive in the UK by next year, meaning we should expect an Australian market launch a bit later in the year. In China, the V23 is priced between 99,800 to 139,800 yuan (AUD$21,500 to AUD$30,000), which does suggest that it could arrive in Australia with a targeted price of less than AUD$40,000 before on-road costs. It all depends on how much it costs to swap that 'iCar' badge to one that says 'iCaur.' Strange name, isn't it?!
AsiaOne
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- AsiaOne
Furry capabara EVs, self-driving mini bar, and more - here are the wackiest cars we saw at Auto Shanghai 2025, Lifestyle News
The Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, or Auto Shanghai, is one of the biggest motor shows in the world. Spanning over 360,000 square metres across eight massive halls of the National Exhibition and Convention Centre in downtown Shanghai, the show features over 1,000 exhibitors covering every aspect of the automotive industry. Given the scale of the exhibition, it's natural to expect plenty of new cars at the show. But aside from the latest new launches, China's motor shows are also known for their bevy of weird and unique cars that are meant to grab attention and stand out from the hundreds of models on display. AsiaOne was invited to this year's Auto Shanghai, which took place from April 23 to May 2, by Omoda and Jaecoo, sub-brands from Chinese automaker Chery, and we took the chance to check out some of the wackiest and funkiest cars we saw at the show. Chery Land and Air Vehicle Prototype Now that Chinese carmakers have more or less conquered the electric vehicle (EV) landscape, the next step in their evolution appears to be flying cars. Chery showcased their Land and Air Vehicle prototype at the show, and it's really more like a mini helicopter with wheels. Apparently it uses sophisticated software that can enable it to be operated autonomously with minimal operator input, and the concept is supposed to be envisioned as a solution for short distance commuting in highly built-up urban areas. What is more interesting is that Chery weren't the only ones who brought flying car concepts to the show, with other brands like Xpeng and GAC also displaying their own versions at Auto Shanghai. Chery iBar This tall and upright vehicle is the Chery iBar, and is apparently meant to be a self-driving minibus for ferrying people around urban areas. Details were a bit short on this concept, but a quick peek into its interior revealed perhaps the inspiration for its name, for it looks like a really comfortable lounge, and has an actual drinks bar inside. Imagine hopping into one of these on a night out. iCar V23 iCar is another sub-brand from Chery that specialises in youth-oriented cars, and the V23 is a small SUV that is meant to be a modern reinterpretation of an old-school military Jeep. The brand showcased a few versions of the V23 at Auto Shanghai, including a green and white one dubbed the Cyberspace Retro Edition. This version was decked out with throwback bits like chrome trim all around, while the roof-mounted spotlights and side ladder is meant to accentuate its rugged profile. The weirdest one though was a V23 displayed high up on a platform that looked to be wrapped in what looked like pink fur, even on the wheels. Bizarrely, it wasn't even the only pink fur-covered car at the show, as you'll see below. iM LS6 Furry Cat Here's the other furry pink car we spotted at the show, and apparently this iM LS6, which is supposedly a rival for the Tesla Model Y, is meant to resemble a cat, complete with ears on the roof and a tail emerging from the rear. We also love the cheeky taglines printed on the floor, iM what I am, and the Chinese one which translates to 'Drive a cat car, walk a catwalk'. It's all quite irreverent nonsense, but it's certainly enough to brighten up everyone's day. The LS6 is scheduled to be launched in Singapore later this year, but we don't think it will arrive in this form. Sorry cat lovers. Leapmotor C16 Tom and Jerry Edition Speaking of cats, here's one that's modelled after a particularly famous feline (and his rodent friend). Compared to the others, there's no fancy fur here, and the Leapmotor C16 Tom and Jerry Edition merely features a fancy paintjob on what is a fairly humdrum electric SUV. Still, the bright colours and eye-catching decals was enough to grab plenty of attention, especially from the younger attendees. Lynk & Co Z20 Capybara Edition The other animal that apparently seems to be all the rage right now in China is the capybara, and a few car companies attempted to capitalise on the trend by showcasing capybara-themed models. One of those is the Lynk & Co Z20 Capybara Edition, which was emblazoned with fiercely bright blue and orange graphics, and festooned with plush capybara soft toys on the outside and inside. Cute as it might be though, it was nothing compared to the… Wuling Hongguang Mini EV Capybara Edition Wuling decided to go all out, dressing up its hugely-popular Hongguang Mini EV into a full-blown fur covered capybara. We're not sure what is it with all the fur-covered cars at this year's Auto Shanghai, but one could imagine with hundreds of models being displayed at the show, carmakers would do anything to stand out. Certainly at least, this car would have gotten a lot of attention on social media, with plenty of gushing over its sheer adorableness. Wuling Starlight Game for Peace Edition Game for Peace is apparently a hugely popular mobile game in China, and Wuling collaborated with the game's developers to showcase a version of their Starlight sedan decked out in livery inspired by the game. The car itself is a pretty sleek but otherwise fairly ordinary sedan that's available in either full electric or plug-in hybrid form, and Wuling hopes that the tie-up with Game for Peace will broaden its appeal to a younger audience. It even brought in a couple of cosplayers to pose with the car, which certainly attracted quite a bit of attention from the crowd. Baojun Yep Ice Cream Car The Baojun Yep looks like a Jeep that has shrunk in the wash, and while on its own the car is already unbelievably adorable, Baojun decided to ramp up the cute factor even further by sticking an ice cream cone on the roof and have a giant teddy bear pose beside it. Cuteness overload that's for sure. Maxus Dana V1 Chagee Van But while the ice cream car is merely for show, there was an actual food van that was serving real treats, and the Maxus Dana V1 Chagee van even came complete with two giant bubble tea cups on the roof. Chinese van specialist Maxus collaborated with bubble tea brand Chagee to showcase the versatility of Dana V1, and visitors could actually redeem a drink from the van, subject to availability. We have more than a few diehard Chagee fans at AsiaOne, so one could imagine the reaction if this van showed up at our office one day. Pandemonium that's for sure. [[nid:716576]] No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.
Scottish Sun
04-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
New ‘iPhone-inspired' car that will ‘rival iconic brand on its own turf' is coming to the UK
A bold new electric SUV is gearing up to shake up the off-road scene as it heads for UK roads PUSH THE BUTTON New 'iPhone-inspired' car that will 'rival iconic brand on its own turf' is coming to the UK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A NEW EV inspired by the iPhone is heading to the UK - and it's set to challenge a well-known car firm on its home ground. With a retro look and practical features, the iCaur V23 – a Chinese-made 4x4, aims to stand out in the growing electric car market. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 For many younger buyers, the mix of tech, style, and environmental credentials could make it an appealing option Credit: AFP or licensors 4 Its design deliberately echoes classic 4x4 shapes, with a boxy body, tough underbody, roof rack, and short overhangs Credit: AFP or licensors 4 The rear seats fold down to offer up to 774 litres of space, making it practical for carrying gear or luggage Credit: AFP - Getty Made by Chery-owned iCaur, the five-door electric SUV has sold in China for just under £11,000, according to the BBC, and is now being readied for right-hand drive markets like the UK. In China, the iCaur is offered under the name 'iCar,' but the company adjusted the name for international markets to avoid confusion and better fit local branding. Aimed at younger drivers, the V23 is marketed as a versatile vehicle for everything from hiking and fishing to off-road trips and everyday use. Its design deliberately echoes classic 4x4 shapes, with a boxy body, tough underbody, roof rack, and short overhangs. Inside, it's stripped back but functional, with a large 15.4-inch touchscreen, a simple layout, and a phone holder. The rear seats fold down to offer up to 774 litres of space, making it practical for carrying gear or luggage. The V23 comes with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the top version produces 208bhp with an 82kWh battery, offering over 300 miles of range, according to TechEdt. According to Top Gear, drivers can also choose off-road tyres and benefit from multi-link rear suspension, making it suitable for rougher terrain. While prices in China start at around £11,000 and go up to £15,000, it's unclear what the UK price will be once taxes and import costs are added. Still, the arrival of the iCaur V23 signals that Chinese electric car makers are ready to compete directly with established Western brands on their own turf. This move suggests the brand is serious about expanding beyond its home base and making a mark in Europe. The company also highlights the vehicle's tech appeal, with its big touchscreen and minimal dashboard buttons, aiming to capture the same sleek, gadget-like feel that has made devices like the iPhone so popular. For many younger buyers, the mix of tech, style, and environmental credentials could make it an appealing option. Whether British drivers will take to this new arrival remains to be seen, especially as competition in the electric SUV segment heats up.
The Sun
04-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
New ‘iPhone-inspired' car that will ‘rival iconic brand on its own turf' is coming to the UK
A NEW EV inspired by the iPhone is heading to the UK - and it's set to challenge a well-known car firm on its home ground. With a retro look and practical features, the iCaur V23 – a Chinese -made 4x4, aims to stand out in the growing electric car market. 4 4 4 Made by Chery-owned iCaur, the five-door electric SUV has sold in China for just under £11,000, according to the BBC, and is now being readied for right-hand drive markets like the UK. In China, the iCaur is offered under the name 'iCar,' but the company adjusted the name for international markets to avoid confusion and better fit local branding. Aimed at younger drivers, the V23 is marketed as a versatile vehicle for everything from hiking and fishing to off-road trips and everyday use. Its design deliberately echoes classic 4x4 shapes, with a boxy body, tough underbody, roof rack, and short overhangs. Inside, it's stripped back but functional, with a large 15.4-inch touchscreen, a simple layout, and a phone holder. The rear seats fold down to offer up to 774 litres of space, making it practical for carrying gear or luggage. The V23 comes with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the top version produces 208bhp with an 82kWh battery, offering over 300 miles of range, according to TechEdt. According to Top Gear, drivers can also choose off-road tyres and benefit from multi-link rear suspension, making it suitable for rougher terrain. While prices in China start at around £11,000 and go up to £15,000, it's unclear what the UK price will be once taxes and import costs are added. Still, the arrival of the iCaur V23 signals that Chinese electric car makers are ready to compete directly with established Western brands on their own turf. This move suggests the brand is serious about expanding beyond its home base and making a mark in Europe. The company also highlights the vehicle's tech appeal, with its big touchscreen and minimal dashboard buttons, aiming to capture the same sleek, gadget-like feel that has made devices like the iPhone so popular. For many younger buyers, the mix of tech, style, and environmental credentials could make it an appealing option. Whether British drivers will take to this new arrival remains to be seen, especially as competition in the electric SUV segment heats up. 4
West Australian
30-04-2025
- Automotive
- West Australian
Chery boss confirms iCar brand for Australia
Chery's iCar brand has been confirmed for launch in Australia, where it will join the Chinese carmaker's namesake brand, as well as Jaecoo and Omoda . The news was confirmed by Chery International president Zhang Guibling at the recent Shanghai motor show, where the new Chery-owned EV brand presented its three-model lineup comprising the 03, 03T and V23 compact electric SUVs. While iCar was launched exclusively as an EV brand in China in April 2023, Chery's export boss indicated that Australia will also receive extended-range electric vehicle (EREV – dubbed by iCar as REV) powertrains, which he acknowledged were more suitable for the longer distance travelled by Australians. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now . 'iCar launched in China as an EV [brand]. But very quickly we will introduce REVs. The REV will address range anxiety, so I'm sure Australian customers will appreciate it,' said Mr Guibling. 'We are trying to make a difference. iCar is a completely different brand for Chery, and in the future we want to provide a different experience to different customers.' No local launch timing or model rollout plan was provided for the iCar brand in Australia, but Mr Guibling confirmed EREV development was already underway. However, iCar will remain a brand name for China's domestic market only; for export markets including Australia, Chery's boxy adventure vehicle brand will assume the name iCaur due to a trademark dispute. It's unclear whether Australians will be offered all three iCar EVs currently sold in China, all of which borrow their bluff design cues from hardcore off-road icons like the Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Suzuki Jimny. The iCar 03 was first to launch in 2023, in both single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive forms, offering a CLTC range of up to 501km from CATL battery capacities of up to 69.7kWh, and featuring a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster and solar panels on the roof to increase range. It has since been rebadged for various markets including Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore, with names such as the Jaecoo 6 and Chery J6. The more rugged, higher-performance iCar 03T followed in 2024, bringing upgraded mechanicals, more overt off-road styling including wider wheel-arches, vertical LED lighting and extra off-road equipment. The V23 is the newest, smallest and most distinctive member of the iCar family. The compact four-seat electric SUV gains a 15.4-inch touchscreen with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor, advanced driver assist systems, and both DC fast-charging and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality. Priced from just RMB 99,800 ($A21,425) in China, the retro-styled V23 attracted more than 31,000 pre-orders within hours of its launch in China. The entry-level version – with a 100kW and 180Nm electric motor, 47.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and approximately 301km of driving range on the lenient CLTC cycle – is also available with a slightly larger 59.9kWh battery, capable of delivering about 401km of driving range. Flagship V23s – powered by a dual-motor powertrain with 155kW and 292Nm, an 81.8kWh NMC battery and 501km of claimed driving range – are priced from RMB139,800 (~A$31,000). Despite the relatively low outputs, iCar claims single-motor V23s can accelerate from 0-50km/h in 4.8 seconds, while dual-motor versions take 3.5 seconds. 0-100km/h sprint times haven't been disclosed. Measuring 4220mm long, 1915mm wide and 1845mm tall on a 2730mm wheelbase, the V23 is larger across every dimension than the Suzuki Jimny XL, and has an approach angle of 43 degrees, a departure angle of 41 degrees and, in all-wheel drive guise, ground clearance of 212mm. Single-motor versions are fitted with 19-inch wheels as standard, while dual-motor versions get 21-inch alloys. Under the skin there's five-link rear suspension, while buyers can also option off-road suitable tyres. In the rear, the two second-row seats can be folded flat, providing up to 774 litres of space. CarExpert understands Chery Australia has been pushing for iCar's local launch for some time, following its relaunch as a factory distributor in 2023, when it released the Omoda 5 small SUV. It was followed by the Tiggo 7 Pro mid-size SUV, and last year the larger Tiggo 8 Pro and the Tiggo 4 Pro light SUV, which has become its top-seller and helped drive a 114 per cent sales increase in 2024. Chery sales were up a further 216 per cent in the first quarter of 2025, and should continue to increase with the launch of more new models including plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, plus a plugless hybrid version of the Tiggo 4 with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. There's also a premium, three-row Tiggo 9 Hybrid on the way and expected to arrive in the fourth quarter of 2025 – possibly in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The latter would offer more performance from the same 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine backed by an electric motor and a larger 18.3kWh battery.
