Ora R1: the cheapest electric car in the world

The electric car market is moving along two quite distinct segments. First, we find high-end electric cars, such as the models from Tesla, the Porsche Taycan and others presented by high-end car manufacturers. The second type are the city cars, whose greatest exponent is the Nissan LEAF and other similar models, designed for driving around town.

But there is a segment that seems increasingly interesting to many manufacturers: that of small electric city cars, with low-power motors and designed to deliver their maximum performance in the city. Among all of these, we are especially drawn to the ORA R1, which for now is sold only in China and which we would love to see soon on European city streets.

What is the ORA R1?

The ORA R1 comes from the brand launched by Great Wall Motors, which has specialized in electric vehicles. The acronym in English stands for Open, Reliable and Alternative, so we can get an idea of what it offers. This small electric city car is priced in China at between 7,768 and 10,000 euros, so when it arrives in Europe from 2020, we can expect a similar price.

As for dimensions, the ORA R1 has a length of 3,495 mm, a width of 1,660 mm and a height of 1,560 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,475 mm. A size more than suitable for an urban vehicle, so it will perform perfectly on city streets.

The engine is not very powerful, as it has only a power output of 35 kW, equivalent to 47 CV, and a maximum torque of 125 Nm. Is that too little for a city car? No, it is just right for city driving, although it is true that we would not ask it for much more effort. Considering its top speed is 102 km/h, its range on the NEDC cycle is 351 km, which in real-world driving may be around 250 km.

The charging time from 5 to 80% is 40 minutes using a fast charger, and with a standard 3.3 kW connection it takes about 10 hours to have the battery ready. Again, for a car designed to move around the city, this is more than adequate.

In China it has been a real revolution, and sales since its launch have nearly reached 20,000 units, so its popularity seems confirmed. The Chinese brand’s plans include the arrival of this model in Europe during 2020, although we do not yet have confirmation of the exact date of arrival.