Peter Lyon
March 2, 2024
GWM Malaysia has just declared that the Ora 07 is now “open for bookings,” via a registration-of-interest form on its official website (click here), ahead of its planned introduction sometime in March 2024.
Customers who pre-book this “streamlined electric coupe” will receive a five-year free maintenance plan, which includes labour and part costs—all part of the company’s pre-launch incentives.
The carmaker has however not released any pricing information yet even though we do know that two variants—Long Range and Performance—will be offered in Malaysia.
The former version is fitted with a single-motor, front-wheel drive set-up, producing 204 hp and 340 Nm of torque, while the Performance boasts an all-wheel drive configuration thanks to an additional motor on the rear axle, doubling output to 408 hp and 680 Nm.
The 83.5 kWh battery pack powers both versions, however, the Long Range model can go farther—up to 640 km (NEDC) on a single charge—than the Performance variation, which can only go 550 km (NEDC)—because of the differences in drivetrain configuration.
The manufacturer has not however released charging data for the Ora 07 yet. However, it does state that the EV can be charged from 30% to 80% in around 30 minutes using DC fast charging, which suggests a charging capability of about 80–100 kW based on educated guessing.
For the time being, the model will be only imported from China, therefore both variants’ equipment lists should closely resemble those in Thailand. This translates to 18- or 19-inch exterior wheels with distinctive style to complement the Panamera-like external profile, LED headlamps, and a panoramic glass top. For improved aerodynamic performance, the Performance version will also include an electrically retractable spoiler.
Tan leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, ambient lighting, and a distinctive 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster—all of which are inspired by supercars—all accentuate the Ora 07’s dashboard design.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
This is just the beginning. We can expect this launch to be the start of a full-on market push by Chinese EV makers, like GWM (and BYD), to dominate showroom traffic with good quality, competitively priced EVs that boast distinctive styling. Mind you, we are not saying “pretty” stalling here — just “distinctive.”
