At the end of last year, Dongfeng Motor announced its new brand concept, eπ, and its first model, the eπ007. In March this year, Dongfeng launched the eπ007. The new car offers four variants based on different configurations. Prices range from 159,600 to 199,600 yuan (27640$). Notably, in addition to the pure electric version, the eπ007 also offers a range-extended version. This caters to users who need longer range and prefer not to rely on charging facilities.
As consumers accept new energy vehicles, launching a range-extended version can help the eπ007 attract more potential buyers. Many brands already offer range-extended models. To gain market share in this competitive landscape, the eπ007 range-extended version must excel in performance, price, and features.
Recently, we attended the media test drive event for the eπ007 extended range version. This new model represents a strategic product for the eπ brand’s entry into the mainstream automotive market. How powerful is this new car? Let’s reveal the details. 1. Key Highlights of the New Car The vehicle features an efficient Mach Super Range Extender system. It achieves a CLTC comprehensive range of up to 1200 km. The new “π” chassis tuning offers high comfort and excellent handling. The design follows the “Simplicity is Key” philosophy. It boasts a wide, low body design and incorporates trendy features, showcasing a unique charm that is both understated and bold. The car relies on the Dongfeng SOA smart cockpit system, providing a highly personalized experience. It also includes a panoramic sound WANOS audio system, creating a luxurious and comfortable driving environment. The vehicle is equipped with an integrated high-performance smart driving system. It offers multiple intelligent driving assistance features and a millisecond response car system, ensuring safety and convenience. The spacious interior provides ample room for passengers. The comfortable seating enhances the riding experience. 2. Efficient Range Extender System with Over 1200 km Comprehensive Range Compared to pure electric models, the eπ007 extended range version stands out with its Mach Super Range Extender system. The 1.5L Mach range extender engine delivers 70 kW, while the rear motor provides a maximum power of 160 kW and a peak torque of 310 N·m. Together with a 28.39 kWh power battery, the new car offers a pure electric range of 200 km and a comprehensive range of 1200 km. Notably, the 1.5L Mach range extender engine achieves a thermal efficiency of 43.5% and a fuel-to-electric conversion rate of 3.55 kWh/L, resulting in an official fuel consumption of only 4.2 L per 100 km.
The eπ007 power battery focuses on electric vehicle battery safety, a key concern for consumers. It uses an L300 standardized hard shell design. The battery pack features a double-sealed design, achieving IPX8 and X9 standards. The pack contains aerospace-grade materials that withstand temperatures of 1400 degrees. It includes a cloud-based BMS for full lifecycle health management. Smart detection enables all-domain thermal runaway monitoring, preventing self-ignition caused by controller failure.
The eπ007 extended version contrasts sharply with its aggressive exterior. It accelerates smoothly from a stop. The vehicle does not exhibit sudden bursts of speed. The power output remains linear and stable. This makes it ideal for family use. Drivers need to press the pedal harder for noticeable power feedback. This feature allows drivers to control the vehicle easily. They can enjoy a comfortable start.
As the speed increases, the power response improves. Press the accelerator. The range extender connects closely with the electric motor. Power output responds quickly to the driver’s needs in city conditions, such as changing lanes and overtaking. The acceleration feels smooth and consistent.
In the mid to high-speed range, this range extender system shows strong power reserves. Even at 100 km/h, the power output remains robust. However, the first half of the accelerator pedal feels loose and requires more force to control. One issue to note is that as speed increases, the steering system does not noticeably tighten. During high-speed turns, precision is not very high. Drivers need to pay attention to steering control.
The eπ007 extended version offers various driving modes. Drivers can choose from economy, standard, and sport modes. Each mode adjusts power output and chassis tuning to meet different driving needs. The sport mode enhances the driving experience. It features a sport mode button on the steering wheel marked “S” in red. This design maximizes performance feel.
As the tail rises, the vehicle gains more downforce at high speeds. Acceleration and steering feel more solid.
The eπ007 extended version shows strong adaptability in chassis tuning. The front MacPherson and rear multi-link suspension, tuned by the CTCC champion team, effectively absorbs ground vibrations on bumpy roads or speed bumps. This keeps the body stable. In sport mode, the chassis displays high toughness. It provides clearer feedback on road feel, enhancing driving enjoyment.
The eπ007 extended version engages the energy recovery system smoothly after releasing the accelerator pedal. This reduces energy waste. However, the brake pedal feels soft during the first half of its travel. Once the pedal moves past a certain point, braking force increases quickly. This setup offers good comfort for normal deceleration. In emergency braking situations, drivers must apply more pressure to the brake pedal to stop the vehicle quickly. They need to anticipate and adapt in advance.
The Mach super range extender system has another feature. It quickly responds to high throttle demands when battery power is low. It boosts power by 20-40 kW. It uses SOC dynamic balancing and speed assessment. The system employs a multi-point power-following strategy across all speed ranges. It also innovates with an EGR air intake solution. This significantly enhances efficiency and driving experience.
During the previous test drive of the eπ007 electric model, the motor noise stood out compared to similar models. This affected its quietness. The range-extended version doesn’t have this issue. The range extender engages seamlessly. The noise increase is minimal. The custom WANOS sound system enhances the interior experience. It creates a comfortable space. The design is simple yet distinctive.
The eπ007 incorporates the philosophy of “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” into its design. Its closed front face features split headlights that are narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. This creates a wide and low stance. The headlights have a simple outline. However, the integration of 104 LED light sources adds a smart touch. The new car also showcases a “double T” logo, symbolizing technology and change, which enhances its refined appearance.
The new car shows an elegant and simple visual effect from the side. It optimizes 23 aerodynamic components to achieve a drag coefficient of 0.209Cd. The black dual five-spoke wheels, sized 235/45R19, enhance the sporty feel. The eπ007 measures 4880mm in length, 1895mm in width, and 1460mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2915mm, reaching the level of a mid-large sedan.
The new car’s rear also shows a simple style. The continuous taillights feature a “sky lattice” design. They integrate 230 LED light sources, matching the front headlights for high recognition. The electric hatchback provides a wide rear view. The hatch opening is large, making it easy to load and unload items. Reports say the new car supports optional badge colors. Adding decorative elements enhances its sporty coupe attributes.
The test drive model features frameless doors. This enhances the visual appeal and improves interior visibility. The eπ007 also offers an electric scissor door option. It supports voice commands, smart keys, and large touchscreens for various entry methods. Each door includes dual ultrasonic radars. These radars actively prevent pinching and obstacles during door operation. This design attracts attention and ensures convenience and safety. The car side includes three types of ground lighting. It provides “welcome,” “romantic,” and “battle” projection patterns. These patterns adapt to different scenes, creating a sense of ceremony. The cabin boasts excellent quality and rich smart features.
The new car features a simple and elegant interior design. The two-tone layout extends the cabin’s sense of space. Like other models in the Dongfeng New Energy family, the new car has almost no physical buttons on the center console. A continuous high-gloss black trim combines with a full LCD instrument panel and a floating central display. This creates a strong technological atmosphere.
The eπ007 relies on the Dongfeng SOA smart cockpit system. It offers 38 service modules. It features 123 interfaces and over 300 customizable scenarios. Users can personalize multiple scenes.
The eπ007 uses imported German Benecke suede for the main dashboard. It features a soft silicone wrap, the same material as baby pacifiers. This wrap has no odor, no volatility, and is healthy and eco-friendly. It cleans easily. The design includes a tech geometric pattern and natural wood grain, enhancing its quality.
The vehicle will feature an integrated high-performance intelligent driving system. This system uses the Black Sesame A1000 chip, achieving 53 TOPS of computing power. It meets the high-performance requirements for L2+ autonomous driving, including highway assistance and memory parking. The new car will also have a vehicle system with a response time as low as 300 milliseconds. It will enable 100% voice control of all in-car functions and support dialect recognition, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and Sichuanese.
The eπ007 features six intelligent driving cameras, four surround cameras, twelve ultrasonic radars, five millimeter-wave radars, two interior cameras, and one high-precision positioning unit. In total, it has thirty-one intelligent perception devices. These devices enable the new car to achieve advanced intelligent driving assistance for point-to-point highway travel. It can automatically follow vehicles, change lanes, and navigate on and off ramps. If it detects changes in road conditions ahead, it will provide alerts and reminders. This functionality is very practical.
The eπ007 features LAPA memory parking and tracking reverse functions. The first allows for intelligent, fully automated driving for the last 400 meters after route learning. It helps users park their cars. The second can reverse along the original path within a maximum distance of 50 meters, making it very user-friendly for new drivers. Comfortable and spacious driving space.
The eπ007 features dual-tone stitched seats that match the cabin style. The seats have solid padding and provide good support. The backrest uses high-quality leather for comfort. The perforation ensures breathability and adds a refined touch. The driver’s seat offers ventilation, heating, and massage functions. The extensive use of soft materials inside enhances driving comfort.
The panoramic WANOS custom sound system features 20 speakers, including 2 driver-exclusive headrests. It delivers a 7.1.2 channel sound experience. Enjoy immersive luxury audio.
In actual experience, a 176 cm tall driver adjusts the seat to a comfortable position. The driver has one fist of headroom. With the front seats in place, the rear passenger enjoys one fist of headroom and two fists of legroom. The rear seat width and nearly flat floor design provide ample space. Even on long journeys, three rear passengers do not feel cramped.
Summary: The new energy vehicle market grows. Consumers focus more on range and charging convenience. The Dongfeng eπ007 range-extended model eases range anxiety. It offers low energy consumption and good driving performance. It meets more user needs. Additionally, this vehicle excels in smart features and safety. Recently, Dongfeng launched the eπOS 1.2.0 system update for the eπ007. This update adds over ten optimized functions, including vehicle system improvements and smart driving upgrades. Its overall competitiveness rises again. If Dongfeng enhances marketing and brand promotion, it can boost consumer awareness and recognition. This will help it capture a better market share in the competitive new energy vehicle sector. The Dongfeng eπ007 range-extended version is set to start deliveries in August. It is worth looking forward to.