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The EV market continues with its spectacular growth thanks partly to the growing number of new models, most of the brands that operate in Europe now have 100% electric or plug-in hybrid models in their offering.
In addition to the “historical” brands already established in the European market, new ones, focused 100% on electric cars, are being introduced on a regular basis. This is the case of Aiways, a Chinese company that is committed to quality and style in its vehicles and that has the experience given by a market like China, where about 2.5 million electric vehicles were sold in 2021 and BEVs sales in October accounted for 22% of the market share.
Aiways U6, an electric SUV coupe with advanced technology
The first model of this Chinese brand which was launched two years ago in Europe was the Aiways U5. This is an SUV with outstanding comfort and safety equipment. Its 150 kW engine power - equivalent to 204 hp - ensures it moves freely.
As part of its plan to launch a new model every year, the company just introduced the Aiways U6 SUV coupe in some European countries. This model can even be pre-ordered online on the Aiways website. The price of the U6 is around 50,000 euros, with some smaller local differences. This model clearly marks a step forward in terms of aerodynamics, style, and quality of components. The official WLTP autonomy of the U6 is 405 km, which allows you to make long trips comfortably. Electromaps charging points map can of course help you plan your road trips. Remember that if you see a charger you are interested in, but which is occupied, you can simply ask to receive a notification when it becomes available.
For the new U6, Aiways has relied on the most up-to-date technology to become a serious competitor among the models available in Europe in its segment category, with complete equipment. This electric car incorporates a fully functional dashboard with an 8.2-inch screen that integrates the driver information system. A second large 14.6-inch central touch screen works as an info, NAV and entertainment display. Wireless update of software features and its compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are other interesting characteristics of this EV.
Style and design, indisputable qualities of the Aiways U6
Aiways wants to give its vehicles a personal look, this is why it uses elements such as the front end called “shark nose” and a stylised body design, that achieves an aerodynamic drag coefficient of only 0.248, which is remarkable for a SUV vehicle, despite its robust appearance. Another point in its favour is the empty weight, unrivalled in its class (according to Aiways), of only 1,790 kg, something which was achieved thanks to its innovative structure that combines aluminium and steel.
This SUV incorporates a coupe-style body with 20-inch wheels, and an attractive two-tone finish stand out. The U6 is 4.80 m long, 1.88 m wide and 1.64 m high. These measures make an impressive load capacity with a boot that can vary in size from 472 litre capacity, with all seats available, up to 1,260 litres by folding down the rear seats.
Is the power of the Aiways U6 up to a coupe's expectations?
A vehicle like the new U6 from Aiways, with plenty of new technologies, also requires an electrical power appropriate to its “sportive DNA”. This is why it has sandwich-type batteries with 24 CATL modules and can be charged with up to 90 kW, both in a fast charging station, and up to 11 kW in a three-phase charger. This means that the Aiways U6 can be charged theoretically from 20% to 80% in only 35 minutes.
As mentioned, its autonomy is 405 km and the official- WLTP -consumption is 16.6 kWh/100 km. The maximum power of the U6 is 160 kW, which equals 218 hp, and the maximum torque is 315 Nm. These figures guarantee smooth yet powerful accelerations, even with its mentioned robust exterior. Concretely, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds and the top speed is 160 km/h (electronically limited).
ADAS systems
Another highlight in the new Airways U6 is the implementation of Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) - mandatory in new vehicles in the European Union - such as speed assistant, lane change alert, fatigue detector, braking emergency or rear camera with cross traffic alert.
The combination of ADAS systems with the ergonomic interior ensures that driving the U6 is, as well as pleasant, very safe.
Aiways U6 priced around 50,000 euros
In Europe, the Aiways U6 costs around 50,000 euros, with small local differences by country. This price may get reduced by applying different grants that various European states offer to promote EV purchase to accelerate the transition to electric mobility.
In the same segment category (“D”), we find models like the Tesla Model Y, the VW ID4, the Ford Mustang Mach-e, the Peugeot e2008, and Skoda Enyaq. All of them with similar or higher prices than the Aiways U6. It remains to be seen if price is a key factor in consumer behaviour and if the Chinese brand will be well received across Europe.
