2024 Deepal SL03 Electric Vehicle Debuts in the Chinese Market

“2024 Deepal SL03 Electric Sedan Makes Debut in China with Enhanced Features and Competitive Pricing”

The 2024 version of the all-electric Deepal SL03 sedan was recently launched in China on February 20, bringing notable updates to the model. Chinese media reports suggest a reduced starting price, now claimed to be 27,000 yuan (3,750 USD) cheaper than the 2023 models, although some discrepancies in pricing comparisons exist. Initial reviews highlight key differences in both pricing and range, coinciding with recent discounts on Deepal’s S7 SUV model.

At launch, three versions of the Deepal SL03 are available, with the 530 Plus starting at 156,900 yuan (21,800 USD), the 530 Max at 163,900 yuan (22,800 USD), and the range-topping 610 Max at 173,900 yuan (24,200 USD). These numbers denote the CLTC ranges, replacing the previous models with ranges of 515 km and 705 km.

Originally known as Shenlan in English before adopting its official English name, Deepal is majority-owned by Chang’an and currently sells new energy cars in China and Thailand. The SL03, introduced in 2022, marked the brand’s debut in the automotive market.

One surprising aspect is the reduction in range for the top-spec SL03, with a considerably smaller battery size of 66.8 kWh compared to the former 705 model’s 80.0 kWh, despite maintaining NCM chemistry. However, this reduction likely contributes to a significant price decrease of 23,000 yuan (3,200 USD) from the old model’s price of 196,900 yuan (27,400 USD). In contrast, the 530 model features a 58.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack, slightly larger than the old 515’s 58.1 kWh unit.

The powertrain for the 530 versions includes a 160 kW motor, while the 610 boasts a 190 kW motor. Both are permanent magnet synchronous drive motors mounted on the rear axle, generating the same torque at 320 Nm. The 610 achieves a slightly faster acceleration time at 6.2 seconds compared to 6.9 seconds for the 530.

Competitive pricing is expected to bolster sales, aligning with China’s trend toward more affordable electric vehicle options. The dimensions remain consistent, with the vehicle measuring 4820/1890/1480 mm in length, width, and height, respectively, and a wheelbase of 2900 mm.

The interior design features simplicity, with an LCD instrument display and a two-spoke steering wheel. A noteworthy feature is the 14.6-inch floating central screen, rotatable by 15° towards either the driver or passenger. Max versions come equipped with an augmented reality head-up display, while all versions feature a built-in dashcam.

Additional features include 40W wireless mobile phone charging, Bluetooth NFC key, transparent chassis, and Max versions offer a 64-color ambient lighting system and anti-glare mirrors. As of now, there are no updates announced for the range-extended version (EREV) of the SL03.