China's prominent electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, Chery New Energy, has introduced the New Little Ant to its home market. With prices starting at 77,900 yuan, approximately Rs 8.92 lakh, and the top-spec variant priced at 82,900 yuan (~ Rs 9.49 lakh), this latest addition is set to make waves in the EV sector. Chery New Energy operates under the umbrella of the state-owned Chery Automobile Co. Ltd.
The New Little Ant: What Sets It Apart?
The Chery New Little Ant is an evolved version of the Classic Little Ant, but both models will coexist in the market and the New Little Ant boasts refined exteriors and an overall more appealing profile. Key differentiators include a cleaner front fascia, updated headlamps, and daytime running lights (DRLs), along with a closed-off front grille. A fresh Qq logo graces the grille adding a touch of modernity.
Distinctive deeper grooves along the side panels give the New Little Ant a robust appearance, while the rear profile closely resembles that of the Classic Little Ant. Notably, the New Little Ant offers a broader spectrum of color choices with seven shades available including dark green, light green, purple, peach, agave blue, white, and gray. In contrast, the Classic Little Ant offers only five color options.
The New Little Ant's Inviting Interiors
Stepping inside the New Little Ant, you'll find a refreshed dashboard, a generous 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a contemporary steering wheel, and sleeker air vents and the minimalist design approach enhances the cabin's sense of spaciousness, while additional features elevate the driving experience. Among the highlights are a power-adjustable driver's seat, wireless charging, leather seat upholstery, heated seats, and steering wheel, a large makeup mirror with LED lights, and a PM2.5 air filter.
Advanced tech features are also on offer including voice controls and remote functions accessible via a dedicated app. Safety is a top priority, with electronic stability control, hill assist control, a tire pressure monitoring system, rear parking sensors, a pedestrian warning system, cruise control, and automatic power-off on collision.
Chery New Little Ant: Specifications and Performance
Both the Chery New Little Ant and the Classic Little Ant share the same dimensions and powertrain options and these compact EVs measure 3,242 mm in length, 1,670 mm in width, 1,550 mm in height, and have a wheelbase of 2,150 mm. Ground clearance is 120 mm, and the turning radius is 4.55 meters.
The standard powertrain generates 50 PS of maximum power and 95 Nm of peak torque. There are three battery options with varying compositions. The 25.05 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery offers a range of 251 km. The 28.86 kWh ternary lithium battery and the 29.23 kWh LFP battery provide a 301 km range.
The high-spec powertrain delivers 76 PS and 150 Nm, equipped with a 40.3 kWh ternary lithium battery boasting a 408 km range. These range figures are based on the CLTC test cycle, and both models are available in rear-wheel-drive (RWD) format and the Chery New Little Ant is set to carve its niche in the EV market with its impressive features and range of options for discerning buyers.