429bhp Changan Deepal S05 set for UK arrival
Chinese newcomer Changan is gearing up to launch its second EV in just six months, promising up to 303 miles of range and Porsche-rivalling pace from its Deepal S05.
The smaller sibling to last year’s Deepal S07, the Changan Deepal S05 will go on sale on March 1, with prices starting from around £38,000.
That puts the Deepal S05 in a similar space to the Kia EV3, Skoda Elroq and BYD Atto 3 Evo although at 4.6m long, it is closer in size to the more expensive EV5, Enyaq and Volkswagen ID.4.
Unlike the larger S07, Changan’s new model will come with a choice of two powertrains offering two- or four-wheel-drive.
Entry-level versions – badged RWD Max – use a 268bhp/214lb ft rear-mounted motor while AWD Max models add a front motor for all-wheel-drive and 429bhp/370lb ft. That allows it to get from 0-62mph in a blistering 5.5 seconds.
Both versions use a 68.8kWh battery which Changan says should return up to 303 miles in the single-motor variant and 278 miles in the two-motor model. The battery is also capable of charging at up to 200kW, putting it among the best in the C-segment.
Changan says the Deepal S05 has been inspired by aircraft and space flight, from its slippery exterior styling with flush-fit handles and frameless doors, to its “intelligent cockpit”.
Inside the steering wheel has apparently been modelled after aircraft controls and a fighter jet-style augmented reality head-up display is standard on all models in place of a traditional instrument panel. The passenger seat features a “zero gravity” reclining function with extendable leg rest inspired by the neutral seating position adopted by astronauts.
A single Max trim level brings vegan “leather” upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, a 14-speaker sound system and a rotating 15.4-inch central touchscreen with wireless Android and Apple mirroring, and a 540-degree parking camera. The only paid-for options are a £1,000 panoramic sunroof and a £600 detachable tow bar.
Available to order from March 1, prices start at £37,990 for the RWD version and £39,990 for the AWD variant.
