The Chinese maker of cheap TVs you'll find at Walmart or Amazon is launching a new hatchback EV family designed to compete with the VW ID.3, Cupra Born, and BYD Dolphin. So far, it looks like the real deal.
A number of Chinese brands you may not have heard of have been unveiling new EVs at this week's Paris auto show – which has made a big comeback this year after the post-COVID major. Among them is a newcomer to the scene: Skywell, a brand better known for cheap electronics. However, it is a new brand, as the brand trades as Skyworth in Europe, and Skyworth is a major electronics brand in China. Regarding the brand name Skywell, the company has already launched a vehicle outside of China this year called the BE11 midsize electric SUV. But now we see both names on this car, so it's not clear.
In any case, Skywell, or Skyworth, now presents the Q, which is expected to be sold throughout Europe next year and, not surprisingly, “competitive price.” At about 4.3m long, the car probably won't turn many heads, but it's clean, modern, and squarely placed in the family car segment. Two battery options will be available, and while detailed specifications are not yet available, the large pack offers a combined range of over 300 miles, making it a great option for long drives.
DC fast charging should give you a 10% to 80% recharge in 20 minutes. The front-mounted 204hp engine will allow a claimed 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds – that's faster than the BYD Dolphin Comfort, which can do the same in seven seconds.
The IQ comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a larger “Skyroof” on some models, and an infotainment system with a large 15.6-inch touch screen. It comes with a Mezt sound system with eight speakers, wireless connectivity, and rear-seat touchscreen mirrors. Other features are included, such as a 360-degree panoramic parking camera, autonomous braking systems, lane keep assist, and intelligent speed assist. It also comes with a seven-year, 100K-mile warranty and an eight-year, 155K-mile battery warranty.
While we'll have to see how this all plays out in real life, the Q looks like a real contender in the EV space, at least from the photos. And then, for the record, BYD started making cell phones, and Geely, which owns Volvo, made refrigerator parts.
Photos: Skywell
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