iCar V27 Continues to Experience Sales Decline in China
Sales for the iCar V27 continue to decline in the Chinese market, prompting Chery to take concrete steps to boost sales momentum through a refresh via the introduction of a Long-Range variant at the end of September.
CarnewsChina reported on Monday (21/9) local time that the iCar V27, marketed as the iCAR V27 in China, previously recorded its highest monthly shipment of 4,184 units in April. However, that figure dropped to 3,456 units in May, 2,219 units in June, 1,764 units in July, and down to 1,609 units in August.
The introduction of the Long-Range variant is an effort by Chery to refresh the product occupying the mid-to-large boxy SUV segment. In addition to the increased driving range, the latest model is expected to receive updates regarding cabin comfort and smart technology. The official pricing has not yet been announced.
Currently, the iCar V2<0xC2>7 is available in three options with prices starting from 169,800 yuan, with the highest variant priced at up to 196,800 yuan.
The model relies on an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) system, which combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine acting as a generator with an electric motor. For the rear-wheel-drive variant, the electric motor produces 185 kW or approximately 248 hp. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive version will utilise two motors with a combined output of 335 kW or approximately 449 hp.
The system is paired with a 34.3 kWh LFP battery. The RWD version offers an electric range of up to 210 km based on the CLTC, while the AWD version reaches 200 km. The combined driving range is claimed to reach 1,230 km.
In terms of design, the V27 maintains its boxy SUV character with dimensions of 4,909 mm in length, 1,976 mm in width, and a wheelbase of 2,910 mm. Inside the cabin, the V27 is equipped with a 15.4-inch central screen and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip with AI computing capabilities of 30 TOPS.
The highest variant also relies on LiDAR sensors and the Horizon Robotics Journey 6P chip, with a capability of 560 TOPS, for its driver assistance system. Following its domestic launch, Chery plans to expand iCar V27 shipments to several global markets, including the Middle East, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe.