The V27, an SUV model set to launch iCaur's operations in Brazil in 2027, has received an update in China: a long-range version capable of traveling up to 300 kilometers using exclusively electric power. This vehicle employs an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) propulsion system.
Currently, in China, the model is available in two configurations, priced at 189,800 yuan and 203,800 yuan, which is approximately equivalent to R$ 148 thousand and R$ 159 thousand. In China, the brand and car are known as iCar; the spelling iCaur is used in international markets, but the pronunciation in Brazil will be maintained as 'iCar' to avoid confusion with the electric subcompact iCar already sold in the country by Caoa Chery.
The brand's entry into Brazil was formalized in August. The operation will be conducted by Chery International Brazil, the same entity responsible for Omoda & Jaecoo, joining other brands of the Chinese conglomerate present in the national territory, such as Caoa Chery and Jetour.
Launch plans indicate that the V27 should arrive at Brazilian dealerships by June of next year, followed by the V25 in 2027 and a new generation of the compact V23, expected in 2028. However, details regarding prices and specifications for the Brazilian market have not yet been disclosed.
In terms of engineering, the mechanical assembly integrates a 1.5 turbo engine generating 156 horsepower and two electric motors with a combined power of 455 hp. The electric motors are responsible for moving the wheels, while the combustion engine acts solely as a generator, recharging the battery when the charge level decreases, eliminating the need for stops at electric charging stations during long trips.
The main innovation of this version lies in the 51.2 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL. According to iCar, this battery ensures a range of up to 300 km in the Chinese CLTC cycle, or 243 km in the European WLTP cycle, which is considered less optimistic. Previously available versions achieved 210 km with rear-wheel drive and 200 km with all-wheel drive, following the Chinese standard. In Brazil, the range will be determined by Inmetro.
With dimensions of 5.05 meters in length, 1.98 meters in width, 1.89 meters in height, and 2.91 meters wheelbase, the V27 will position itself among the largest SUVs available in the national market. It features 22 cm ground clearance, a maximum immersion capacity of up to 60 cm, and a suspension system with magnetorheological control, which adapts damper stiffness according to the road surface.
Chery informed that iCaur aims for a premium positioning in Brazil. The Chinese V27 features an interior equipped with an 8.88-inch digital dashboard, a 15.4-inch multimedia center, and seats with ventilation, heating, and massage functions, in addition to a dual panoramic sunroof.
Regarding driver assistance features, the SUV utilizes the Super Falcon 700+ system, integrated with Horizon Robotics' Journey 6P chip. This technological package includes LiDAR, three radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and 11 cameras. The V27 is the first model to incorporate Horizon Robotics' HSD V2.1, technology that, according to the manufacturer, enables end-to-end autonomous driving, although it is not yet confirmed whether this package will be retained in the version intended for Brazil.