New iCaur 03T REEV confirmed for South African launch in fourth quarter

iCaur is expanding its South African line-up with the 03T REEV, a range-extended electric version of its compact SUV, which is due to arrive locally in the fourth quarter.

Measuring 4,550mm long, the 03T REEV retains the boxy proportions and flared wheel arches of the fully electric model. It also uses an all-aluminium body, which the Chinese carmaker said delivers significant torsional stiffness while reducing body weight by more than 30% compared with a conventional steel structure. The five-seater rides on 19-inch wheels.

The 03T REEV combines a rear-mounted electric motor with a turbocharged 1.5 l petrol engine that serves solely as a generator. The electric motor drives the rear wheels, while the petrol engine generates electricity to recharge the battery when required.

The electric motor produces 185kW and 300Nm, with iCaur claiming a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 170km/h.

Energy is stored in a 33.67kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery, which provides a claimed all-electric range of 190km on the New European Driving Cycle. With the range extender operating, the total claimed driving range increases to 800km.

The 03T REEV supports both AC and DC charging. AC charging is rated at up to 6.6kW while DC fast charging can take the battery from 30% to 80% in about 20 minutes under optimal conditions. Vehicle-to-load functionality is also included.

South African models will feature a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster and an eight-speaker iCaur sound system. Other equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 50W wireless smartphone charger and four-zone voice-command functionality.

The cabin will feature leather upholstery, with the front seats offering power adjustment and ventilation. Driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist and forward-collision warning while a 540º panoramic camera system is also fitted.

Pricing, the launch date and final South African specifications will be confirmed closer to the local launch.