GWM slashes Ora hatchback pricing as Kia shows off EV5 electric SUV
04 April, 2024
Great Wall Motors has slashed prices of its Ora electric hatchback as Kia confirms launch of the EV5 medium electric SUV in June.
Great Wall Motors has slashed more than 10 per cent off the price of its Ora electric hatchback to make it the most affordable EV in Australia to date.
It’s the lowest price for a new EV in Australia to date. With prices now starting at $35,990 driveaway (previously $39,900 plus on-road costs for the 48kWh Standard Range variant,) the Ora is available in four trims.
The Ora Extended Range with 63kWh battery is now $40,990 driveaway compared to its previous pricing of $45,900 plus on-road costs, while the Extended Range Ultra is now $43,990 driveaway, down from $48,900 plus on-roads.
At the top of the range, the Ora GT is now $46,990 driveaway, whereas it previously cost $51,900 plus on-roads.
The price drop follows a similar move by MG, which in March slashed prices by up to $9,000 on its electric models. While the price drop of more than $5000 for most variants is part of GWM's strategy to boost its presence in the electric and hybrid vehicle market, it says it can also thank favourable exchange rates and efficient supply chains.
The Ora is at the forefront of GWM's push to reduce transport emissions of its fleet, following the introduction of a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard for the first time in Australia.
GWM held 3.3 per cent of the auto market in March, selling 3458 vehicles in total. Of these, just 98 were all-electric Ora hatchbacks. It also sells a range of SUVs and utes, some of which have hybrid options: the Jolion, H6 Tank 300 and Tank 500.
To balance the low and zero emissions playing field, GWM says it is now looking to introduce more low emissions options for consumers, hinting at more choices with potential plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) on the horizon.
Kia introduces made-in-China EV5 SUV
At the same time, Kia has announced that the all-electric EV5 medium SUV is set to join the EV6 on Australian shores, and shared images of a prototype vehicle.
Kia Australia says it will dodge the supply issues that hounded the EV6 and get vehicles consumers faster by sourcing from Kia's factory in China. It says it has 850 vehicles a month locked in for delivery from June.
The EV5 will roll out in entry-level Air and mid-range Earth trims initially, with a GT-Line to follow in the last quarter of 2024. Offering a broad choice for drivers, the EV5 will come in both standard and long-range battery options with a choice between front wheel drive and all wheel drive formats.
Sourcing Australia’s stock from the China factory allows us to launch earlier and secure supply of up to 850 per month which is needed to target mainstream appeal.
Kia EV5 gets all-electric platform, LFP battery
Notably, the EV5 sits on an all-electric N3 eK platform as opposed to the Kia e-Niro which is based on the petrol-powered Niro. It also uses a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, which is cobalt-free and helps to lower manufacturing costs.
The vehicle will come packed with a high level of active and passive safety technology, aiming for a 5-star ANCAP rating. There is also oodles of storage space, including a "frunk" under the bonnet and plenty in the cargo area.
A key selling point is the local Ride & Handling Program, ensuring that the EV5 is tuned for Australian roads, from city streets to the outback.
This attention to local conditions extends to the EV5’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which Kia claims is well-suited to the unique Australian driving landscape.
Full specifications and pricing will be released closer to launch date.
