This week, we test drove the Lantu Zhiyin. Today, I can share my thoughts. Zhiyin is the fourth model from Lantu. It targets the mid-size SUV market. Unlike the Lantu Free, Dreamer, and Zhaiguang, it will only offer an electric version. The expected price ranges from 209,900 to 266,900 yuan (37490$). How does this car perform?
After a first experience with Zhiyin, it’s clear that it targets young users. The car offers stylish colors. I prefer the blue model. Its appearance stands out.
The design inside and outside the car is beautiful. The dual-channel design on the hood gives the Lantu Zhiyin better stability. It also looks sporty. The dynamic curves on the side of the Lantu Zhiyin flow along the body. The ratio of wheelbase to car length is close to 0.618, creating harmony. It also features low-drag wheels, which look quite modern.
Inside the car, the design follows the common style of new energy vehicles. It looks simple. A 15.05-inch screen sits in the center. Young users will find the sliding feature appealing. Users can swipe with three fingers to turn it into a passenger entertainment screen. It’s easy to use. This feature is rare in current electric cars.
You can spot the OMS camera above the central control. It features four static gesture recognitions: “OK hand” for answering calls, “V hand” for taking photos, “shush hand” for muting multimedia, and “fist hand” for pausing music. The “swipe left or right” gesture allows for screen navigation. Young users will likely enjoy this, especially the V hand for photos.
Sit in the driver’s seat. A 30-inch AR-HUD displays in front. It is large and bright. It shows rich information. You see AR navigation, smart driving integration, multimedia info, and a small map.
The official Lantu calls the high-end Zhiyin model’s three electric systems the “985” elite of smart electric vehicles. It features a 901 km range, an 800V platform, and 5C ultra-fast charging. 5C charging is fast, but it depends on the number of charging stations. If enough 5C stations are available, it will be very convenient.
Four models include two with a 400V platform and two with an 800V platform. The top configuration uses a 109 kWh ternary lithium battery from CATL. The 400V models feature a 77 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. The two-wheel-drive model has a range of 625 km. The four-wheel-drive model offers 570 km. The power level of the Zhi Yin stands out. The single motor model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. The dual motor model achieves this in 4.9 seconds. The CDC adjustable damping suspension enhances the driving experience. The chassis feels strong and resilient, favoring a firm setup.
It features an active pre-scout function. It scans the road ahead at 30 frames per second. It analyzes data from 5 to 15 meters in front of the vehicle. It identifies speed bumps in advance and adjusts the shock absorber damping accordingly. The system also includes anti-pitch functionality. During sudden acceleration or deceleration, it automatically adjusts the electromagnetic valve to create high damping force. This controls the vehicle’s pitch motion, making the ride more comfortable and reducing motion sickness. We tested the steering and pedal response in different driving modes. In comfort, economy, and power modes, the steering effort varies. The acceleration pedal response also differs, and the difference is noticeable. Its driving experience and overall comfort appeal to young users.
As a mid-size SUV, the Lantu Zhi Yin offers ample vertical space. The new car measures 4725mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1636mm in height. Its wheelbase is 2900mm, making it suitable for small families. The comfort level is good. The car features a comfortable braking function, which helps prevent motion sickness common in electric vehicles. However, the seats feel a bit firm. The storage space is generous, and it includes two 50W wireless chargers for added convenience.
The intelligent driving system of Zhiyin uses five millimeter-wave radars and ten cameras. It relies on high-precision maps and the OIB domain controller for decision-making and planning. The system achieves rapid iteration through a smart driving data feedback loop. We experienced the new car’s high-speed NOA feature on the highway. It offers navigation assistance for high-speed and urban expressway scenarios. The car can automatically enter and exit ramps, change lanes, overtake, and choose the optimal lane. During our drive, we mostly monitored the steering wheel with a light touch. We rarely took control. The intelligent driving performed steadily on the highway. It automatically exited at the toll station at the end of our drive. Lantu claims Zhiyin also features APA for automatic parking, RPA for remote parking, RDA for tracking reverse, and RVM for remote moving. However, we did not have the chance to experience these features this time, so we will not comment on them.
Today, Lantu Zhiyin announced its pre-sale price at the Chengdu Auto Show. The price range is 209,900 to 266,900 yuan (37490$). This is slightly higher than expected. However, it is an all-electric model. The “985” model remains competitive in its class.