The appearance of the second generation Evolute i-Joy electric crossover went almost unnoticed, without loud presentations and massive media support. However, the changes in the new version are impressive: the car received a modern design, an updated platform and retained an extremely attractive cost, which makes it the most affordable among electric vehicles on the Russian market.
The main trump card remains the price. The basic Business version costs 2,775,000 rubles, but taking into account the state subsidy of 925,000 rubles, its real cost drops to 1,850,000. For this money, the buyer receives a full set of modern options: LED headlights, climate control, all-round cameras, heated and ventilated front seats, electric seats, six airbags, basic driver assistance systems and the ability to distribute energy to external devices. More expensive City and City+ trim levels add 18-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic roof and an extended package of electronic assistants.
The second generation Evolute i-Joy is not just an update of the old model, but a completely new electric car. The predecessor was based on the Dongfeng Fengon 500 gasoline crossover and looked outdated, but now the car is built on the Dongfeng Nammi 06 platform with the Quantum Architecture S3 chassis. Thanks to the new layout, the wheelbase has increased, and the minimal overhangs and flat floor of the cabin create a feeling of spacious and technological interior.
The new i-Joy motor has a power of 163 hp, which is slightly less than the Chinese version, but acceleration to hundreds takes about eight seconds, almost a second faster than its predecessor. The electric car behaves confidently in the city: acceleration is smooth, the steering is responsive, and there are minimal rolls. The suspension smooths out bumps, and the low center of gravity makes handling predictable. On dirt roads, the i-Joy behaves decently for a front-wheel drive SUV, although you should not expect full off-road potential from it.
The battery capacity is 51.87 kWh. The manufacturer promises up to 471 kilometers in the CLTC cycle and 386 in the WLTP, but the real urban mileage, as tests show, does not exceed 300 kilometers. On the highway, with aggressive driving up to 160 km/h, the range is reduced to 200 kilometers. Interior heating is effective at temperatures up to −5°С, but in severe frost the system loses heating speed and heat is distributed unevenly.
Charging is possible from a powerful CSS DC terminal in 18 minutes from 30 to 80%, and from a Type 2 AC wall station it will take about nine hours to "full tank". From a household outlet, the electric car receives a maximum of 3 kW, which is only suitable for overnight or office charging.
The interior of the new i-Joy is minimalist, but cozy. Soft panels, velvety trim and thoughtful lighting create a modern atmosphere. The control buttons are located on the steering wheel and in the doors, the media system is convenient and responds quickly, and the climate settings are controlled via a touch screen. Rear passengers have legroom, a high ceiling and a 500-liter trunk with a two-level floor.
The electric crossover also has unusual "features", such as external speakers that can play music, applause or animal voices. Already in the first month of sales, Motorinvest sold 145 units.
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