WeeklySA_AdminPREMIUM ADVENTURE: A new label iCAUR is heading to South Africa marking its debut with their mid-to-large electrified SUVs which blends rugged capability with smart luxury
By Ali Mphaki
iCAUR, or Eye- Car, is a new name South African car lovers are going to hear a lot about.
The Chery sub-brand launched in 2023 makes its debut in Mzansi with two soon-to-launch products – the flagship V27 and the V23.
Kickstarting the brand’s sojourn into Mzansi is the iCAUR V23, a retro-styled all-electric SUV expected in the country during the second quarter.
What we know so far is that the V23 lineup will initially comprise two variants, namely the V23 2WD and the V23 AWD.
In its 2WD configuration, the V23 boasts a rear-mounted single electric motor producing 100kW and 180Nm of torque.
With its 60kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery we are told it allows for a 20 to 80 percent charge in 30 minutes when plugged into a DC fast-charging station.
As for the V23 AWD, its dual electric motor spews 155 kW and 292 Nm of torque. Coming with an 82kWh battery pack, it recharges from 20 to 80 percent in a about 40 minutes.
When it comes to shoe size, both models are equipped with 19 and 21-inch alloy wheels respectively. Inside, the smell of leather hits your nostrils acutely when you enter the vehicle, the electrically-adjusted front seats facing a 15.4inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Adroid Auto adding a modern feel to the cabin.
Safety has not been compromised either, with both models endowed with six airbags and Isofix child seat anchorages. The V23 2WD comes fitted with the traditional cruise control.
Things get heated up in the V23 AWD model, where there are niceties such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure and forward collision warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Hot on the heels of the V23 launch will be the iCAUR V27 coming in as a premium adventure-ready SUV with a dual-motor 4WD setup.
With its distinctive design that blends nostalgia with modern cyber-styling cues it’s the largest in the lineup measuring just over 5 metres.
The 1.3 metres of interior headroom allows even taller adults to move comfortably without concern.
With 40 storage compartments including a 40l Mafia-styled compartment under the boot, when the seats are folded, there is ample room for the camping setups or other outdoor activities.
Further engaging the senses is the V27’s floating “Star Island” ceiling, ambient lighting, and dual panoramic sunroof which creates a sense of spaciousness and interstellar wonder at night.
The 15-speaker audio system, temperature-controlled armrest, and fragrance box elevates the ambience.
Powered by a 1.5-litre turbo engine and a 34.3kWh battery, it completes the mandatory 0-100 km/h sprint in 5 seconds and has a total range exceeding 1,000 km with an approximated 156 km electric-only range.
Keyless startup, an electronic gear lever and the Driver Monitoring System further simplifies driving and enhance safety.
Overall, both the iCAUR V23 and iCAUR V27 are designed for practicality and adventure.
The company is making a bold statement ‘’in motion’’ as it sets sights on reshaping South Africa’s EV story.
While pricing will be revealed closer to launch dates, the brand is geared at targeting young, tech savvy urban consumers with stylish affordable EVs under the theme “Born to Play”.
