Chery Omoda E5 launches in Malaysia for RM146,800

The Chery Omoda E5 has been officially launched after an extensive development phase. This electric counterpart to the Omoda 5 SUV comes at an attractive price of RM146,800, directly undercutting its direct competitor, the BYD Atto 3, while Chery Malaysia has prided that this is the first EV to be locally assembled in Malaysia.

Offered in a single variant featuring a front-mounted electric motor, the Omoda E5 delivers 204 PS (150 kW) and 340 Nm of torque. This power allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 172 km/h. It houses a 61 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery from BYD, achieving up to 430 km of WLTP range with a consumption rate of 15.5 kWh per 100 km.

The model includes versatile charging options: a three-phase onboard AC charger peaking at 9.9 kW and a DC fast charging capability up to 80 kW, which can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in 28 minutes. Additionally, it offers a vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature for powering electrical devices, ideal for outdoor use or during power outages.

Visually, the Omoda E5 closely resembles its ICE counterpart, the Omoda 5, except for the front design, where it boasts an active grille shutter for temperature and aerodynamic regulation. The absence of the conventional model’s studded grille marks a notable design shift.

Dimensionally, this B-segment SUV measures 4,420 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and has a 2,630 mm wheelbase, slightly smaller than the BYD Atto 3. It features a ground clearance of 145 mm and a boot capacity of 483 liters. The electric model enhances driving with one-pedal driving support, a creep function, and an innovative pocket brake emergency system. Chery also highlights the vehicle’s durability with successful water wading and bottom scraping tests.

The Omoda E5’s interior boasts LED projector headlamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, a powered sunroof and tailgate, puddle lamps, selectable driving modes, and luxurious two-tone or all-black leather seating. Comfort is further enhanced with ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and dynamic ambient lighting.

Technology features include a 24.6-inch curved 2K HD dual-screen setup, powered by a Qualcomm 8155 SoC, supporting both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wirelessly, and a 50W wireless charger with a cooling feature.

Its advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) include a comprehensive suite for safety and convenience. Chery is also developing a new app specifically for Malaysian users, replacing the existing Chinese version.

Warranty coverage is generous, with a standard seven-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year or 160,000 km warranty for the battery and drive unit, promising a ‘1-to-1’ replacement for batteries below 70% health. Early bookings receive a complimentary 11 kW wallbox, V2L adapter, and RM1,000 in EVC roaming partner credits, with a special financing rate from Maybank and free charging at Chery dealerships.

Available in four exterior colors, the vehicle’s price points to a compelling offer, sitting above the ICE O5 but substantially lower than competitors like the BYD Atto 3 Extended Range. The absence of the popular red exterior color and the choice between two interior color schemes round off the package, positioning the E5 as a modern and attractive option for EV buyers.