• This micro BEV offers a range of 301 km to 408 km
• Fast charging takes 30 minutes from zero to 80 percent
• Unlike Wuling Mini EV, the Chery EQ1 comes with 2 airbags and quick charging

The idea of an affordable electric vehicle (EV) for Malaysia is not something new. Some companies have tried to propose the idea of a RM 50k EV, but let's not get into that. 

Putting aside the quirky RM 50k proof-of-concept, Malaysia’s cheapest EV is the Hyundai Kona Electric, but that costs RM 149k – still a substantial amount for most households.

Also Read: 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric launched – Cheapest EV in Malaysia, from RM 149k

Now, Hyundai’s reign for the Kona Electric being the cheapest EV in Malaysia may not last long, as Chinese manufacturer Chery has revealed plans to introduce the Chery EQ1 in Malaysia, with prices tentatively well below the RM 60k mark.

Also Read: Finally an affordable EV for Malaysians? Chery aims to launch RM 55k EV in 2022

Chery EQ1? What’s that?

The Chery EQ1, which is sold in China under the Chinese name Xiao Ma Yi (Small Ant), is a micro battery electric vehicle (BEV) that competes against the boxy-looking Wuling Mini EV, as well as other similarly-sized BEVs.

Chery offers no less than 10 variants of the EQ1 in China, with prices ranging between CNY 66,900 to CNY 82,900 (~RM 44k to RM 55k).

Unlike the Wuling Mini EV, which has been a sales hit in China, sales of the EQ1 doesn’t quite come close. From January to October 2021, Chery only sold 57,717 units of the EQ1. For comparison, Wuling sold 325,164 units of the Mini EV in the same period.

How big is the Chery EQ1?

Compared to the Wuling Mini EV, the Chery EQ1 is larger. It is 3,200 mm long, 1,670 mm wide, and 1,550 mm tall, with a 2,150 mm wheelbase.

Here’s a quick dimension comparison between the EQ1, Wuling, and the Perodua Axia.

Such a small EV, how much power does it make?

Power output for the Chery EQ1 ranges between 41 PS to 75 PS, with torque figure is between 120 Nm to 150 Nm.

Interestingly, the Chery EQ1 is available with two battery types, namely a lithium ion and a lithium iron pack. Driving range varies between 301 km to 408 km, delivered via the 30.6 kWh and 40.6 kWh battery pack, respectively.

Chery also went on to say that the EQ1 is able to hit 50 km/h under 4 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 120 km/h. 

Unlike fellow micro BEV, the Wuling Mini EV, the EQ1 is quick charge-compatible and it takes 30 minutes to charge from an empty battery to 80 percent. Overnight home charging via AC charging takes between 7 to 9 hours, depending on battery capacity. 

Wait, is the Chery EQ1 safe?

While sales of the Chery EQ1 trails the Wuling Mini EV, the former claws back with a stronger safety suite. 

The Chery EQ1 offers dual front airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), ABS, and EBD. Putting it ahead of the Wuling is the inclusion of stability control and traction control, though it lacks any form of ADAS.

Will the Chery EQ1 be suitable for Malaysians?

For all intends and purposes, if you manage your expectations with the Chery EQ1, it will be a swell starter EV for many.

That’s primarily because the Chery EQ1 remains strictly as a city use-only commuter car, one that you drive to and from public transport to your home/office, and not the entire journey.

Of course, if you’re determined enough or live close to your work place, you could drive the EQ1 for the entire journey.

The Chery EQ1, for what it’s worth, is still a leap ahead of the short-lived Renault Twizzy – the latter does not even offer air-conditioning, or stability control for that matter.

How much will it cost in Malaysia?

As mentioned earlier, the Chery EQ1 is priced between CNY 66,900 to CNY 82,900. (~RM 44k to RM 55k). When it reaches Malaysia, expect prices to be within the same ballpark, if not slightly more.

Said model will most likely take the imported (CBU) route in, as the government's Budget 2022 announcement mentioned that EVs will be exempted from both import and excise tax. 

Also Read: Chery returning to Malaysia in Q3 2022 - Jaguar Land Rover tech, rivalling Proton X50 / X70

WapCar's comment:

2022 is set to be an interesting year for affordable EVs, especially with this Chery EQ1. Instead of EVs being a toy for the rich folks, if priced right, the EQ1 could very well be a hit amongst regular car buyer like you and me. 

The only drawback is the amount of charging facilities in Malaysia, something that is being worked on by several companies, including TNB.