The second model from Chery’s new iCar brand is a rugged-looking SUV with familiar styling cues developed with the help of Xiaomi’s Zhimi Technology
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- The iCar V23 is a compact electric SUV featuring a rugged design that echoes the styling of iconic off-roaders like the Land Cruiser, Defender, and G-Class.
- Available in RWD and AWD configurations, the iCar V23 boasts ranges exceeding 400km (AWD) and 500km (RWD) and offers Level 2+ ADAS capabilities.
- The new EV marks the second joint project between Chery and Xiaomi, with plans for six to eight more electric vehicles in the next three years.
While there is no shortage of SUVs in China, local brands keep expanding their lineups to grab a larger piece of the sales pie. The latest example is the iCar V23, reportedly developed by Chery’s new EV brand in collaboration with Xiaomi-owned Zhimi Technology. The fully electric SUV looks like an amalgam of styling details taken from iconic off-roaders like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Land Rover Defender, and the classic Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40.
The iCar V23 will be the second production model from the Chery-owned brand following the iCar 03 SUV earlier this year. Despite the rugged looks, the new SUV is actually smaller than its sibling, measuring 4,220 mm (166.1 inches) long, 1,915 mm (75.4 inches) wide, and 1,845 mm (72.6 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of 2,730 mm (107.5 inches).
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At the front, the round LED headlights, grille, and hood intake, are reminiscent of the Land Cruiser FJ40, as with the boxy front and rear fenders. On the other hand, the front bumper and flat windshield send Jeep Wrangler vibes.
The minimalist surfacing and side gills on the profile appear to be inspired by the Land Rover Defender, although the flush door handles are a nice and rather unique touch. iCar also took notes from the Mercedes-Benz G-Class when designing for the rear end, especially around the low-mounted LED taillights. As with rival models, the rugged looks are combined with a storage box mounted on the tailgate, resembling a spare tire.
The interior is typical of modern EVs featuring a large infotainment display on the dashboard, a Defender-style steering wheel, rectangular A/C vents, and a combination of black and white leather upholstery. The array of sensors nicely integrated around the bodywork will support Level 2+ ADAS capability.
The company didn’t announce the detailed technical specifications, other than confirming it will be available in RWD and AWD guises. According to Chinese media, the iCar V23 will be available with single and dual electric motors, sourcing energy from CATL battery packs. The driving range will reportedly be over 400 km (249 miles) for the AWD version and more than 500 km (311 miles) for the RWD.
The full reveal of the iCar V23 will reportedly take place on April 12 before its first public outing at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show. It will be launched in China in the second half of the year. The main rival will be the similarly-sized Baojun Yep Plus from SAIC, Wulling, and GM.
Chinese media report that Xiaomi’s Zhimi Technology and Chery will continue their collaboration, with six to eight new vehicles scheduled to debut in China over the next three years.
