As the Canadian government has just opened the door to Chinese-built electric vehicles to the tune of up to 49,000 units per year, many hope that we will be able to benefit from some of the affordable models that abound in that country.
Here is an overview of 15 Chinese electric vehicles that we find the most interesting among those with a starting price in China under the $35,000 CAD mark at current exchange rates.
Note: Chinese manufacturers are able to offer such low prices in their domestic market due to significant subsidies provided by the Chinese government. This explains why the same models are considerably more expensive in other markets, such as Australia.
Therefore, the Canadian prices listed here are for reference only. We should expect vehicles that are certainly less expensive than the models currently available on our market, but perhaps not as affordable as one might wish.
Aeolus Sky EV01
- Base Price: 120,000 RMB (approx. $23,845 CA)
- Manufacturer: Dongfeng
- Range: 312 – 365 km EPA (445 – 520 km CLTC)
The Aeolus Sky EV01 is a mid-size electric SUV featuring a “Star Wars” inspired aesthetic, characterized by a closed front grille and sharp-lined LED headlights. It distinguishes itself with its “square” CTP (Cell-to-Pack) battery technology, which, according to the manufacturer, offers good thermal management and increased reliability. Although the interior is more utilitarian than luxurious, priority is given to low operating costs and durability. Some versions intended for fleets feature battery-swapping capabilities.
Bestune Yueyi 03
- Base Price: 79,800 RMB (approx. $15,857 CA)
- Manufacturer: FAW Group (First Automotive Works)
- Range: Up to 312 km EPA (445 km CLTC)
The Yueyi 03 is a compact electric crossover designed to offer maximum interior space. It utilizes a design philosophy that pushes the wheels to the corners, creating a surprisingly spacious cabin for its small size, which is comparable to that of the Volkswagen Taos. This model is equipped with a 61.5 kWh LFP battery and a 164-horsepower motor installed on the front axle.
BYD Dolphin
- Base Price: 99,800 RMB (approx. $19,830 CA)
- Manufacturer: BYD
- Electric Range: 212 – 295 km EPA (302 – 420 km CLTC)
The BYD Dolphin is a compact hatchback that has garnered attention worldwide due to its low price point. Built on the e-Platform 3.0, it maximizes interior space with a long wheelbase and short overhangs. It comes standard with a heat pump system and a Blade Battery (LFP), which the manufacturer describes as safer than traditional batteries. For comparison, the BYD Dolphin starts at $29,990 in Australia (approx. $28,000 CA), which is likely more indicative of the potential Canadian selling price if this model ever reaches our market.
BYD Seal 06 EV
- Base Price: 109,800 RMB (approx. $21,800 CA)
- Manufacturer: BYD
- Electric Range: 330 – 383 km EPA (470 – 545 km CLTC)
The Seal 06 EV is a more affordable alternative to the BYD Seal, which is often considered a direct competitor to the Tesla Model 3. Built on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0 Evo, the Seal 06 features a 2,820 mm wheelbase to maximize interior space and driving comfort. It is distinguished by a closed front face without a grille and a sleeker aerodynamic profile. Inside, the cabin features a rotating 15.6-inch screen, a column-mounted gear selector, and a 65-liter front trunk (frunk). It comes standard with comprehensive safety technologies, including 9 airbags and the DiPilot 100 semi-autonomous driving assist system.
BYD Sealion 06
- Base Price: 143,800 RMB (approx. $28,540 CA)
- Manufacturer: BYD
- Range: 365 – 425 km EPA (520 – 605 km CLTC)
The Sealion 06 EV is the SUV counterpart to the Seal 06 EV sedan, further expanding BYD’s popular “Ocean” series. Built on the same e-Platform 3.0 Evo architecture, it is a mid-size SUV measuring 4,810 mm in length—slightly longer than the Audi Q6 e-Tron and slightly shorter than the Chevrolet Blazer EV. It offers two battery options (65.3 kWh or 78.7 kWh) and configurations for both single rear motor and dual-motor all-wheel drive. As a key volume model, it aims to build upon the record commercial success of BYD’s Sealion family.
Changan Lumin
- Base Price: 37,900 RMB (approx. $7,530 CA)
- Manufacturer: Changan Automobile
- Range: 109 – 211 km EPA (155 – 301 km CLTC)
The Changan Lumin is a retro-styled micro-car that could potentially compete with the Fiat 500e in our market. Its design is characterized by charming “sleepy” circular headlights and a distinctive rectangular shape. It sits on a dedicated EV platform (EPA0), offering a more comfortable ride and better safety credentials than most micro-cars. It is a 2-door, 4-seater, ideal for tight urban environments. Its power output of only 41 horsepower would be a hurdle for commercialization in Canada, but a more powerful variant could be created for that eventuality.
Changan Nevo A07
- Base Price: 139,900 RMB (approx. $27,799 CA)
- Manufacturer: Changan Automobile
- Range: 362 – 498 km EPA (515 – 710 km CLTC)
The Nevo A07 is a mid-size sedan that prioritizes “digital intelligence.” It adopts a minimalist, Tesla-like interior without a traditional dashboard, relying instead on a massive Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR-HUD) and a 15.4-inch central screen. The design is fluid and elegant, often compared to the Nio ET7 but at a fraction of the cost. Due to the collaboration between the two manufacturers, the Changan Nevo A07 shares some mechanical elements with the new Mazda EZ-6.
Dongfeng eπ 007
- Base Price: 144,900 RMB (approx. $28,793 CA)
- Manufacturer: Dongfeng
- Range: 372 – 435 km EPA (530 – 620 km CLTC)
The eπ 007 (pronounced “e-pie”) is a sleek and aerodynamic fastback sedan targeting the premium mid-size segment occupied by the BYD Seal and Xpeng P7. It features a frameless door design and an available electric rear spoiler that deploys at high speeds. Dongfeng has equipped it with its SOA (Smart One Architecture) cabin, allowing a high level of customization for driving modes and infotainment. It is a technology-focused vehicle offering an impressive price-to-performance ratio, including a 0-100 km/h time of under 4 seconds for dual-motor versions.
Forthing Xinghai S7
- Base Price: 119,900 RMB (approx. $23,825 CA)
- Manufacturer: Dongfeng
- Range: 390 km EPA (555 km CLTC)
The Xinghai S7 turns heads with its highly streamlined design; its drag coefficient of 0.191 makes it the most aerodynamic production sedan in the world, beating the Lucid Air and the Mercedes EQS. This efficiency allows it to achieve impressive range from a modest 56.8 kWh battery. Visually, it resembles a futuristic grand tourer with a sweeping roofline. It is a flagship model for the Forthing brand, which is attempting to move upmarket and move away from its minivan roots by offering highly stylish EVs at affordable prices.
Hongqi Tiangong 05
- Base Price: 159,800 RMB (approx. $31,754 CA)
- Manufacturer: FAW Group (First Automotive Works)
- Range: 386 – 527 km EPA (550 – 750 km CLTC)
Positioned as a mid-size electric sedan, the Tiangong 05 represents the “accessible luxury” branch of Hongqi, China’s oldest and most prestigious automaker. Traditionally known for manufacturing limousines for state leaders, Hongqi is now turning toward consumer EVs. The Tiangong 05 features a striking wing-shaped front light signature and a digitally-focused cabin. It sits on Hongqi’s new specialized EV platform, offering refined driving dynamics aimed at rivaling the Tesla Model 3, but with a stronger emphasis on rear passenger comfort and a traditional luxury aesthetic.
iCar 03
- Base Price: 109,800 RMB (approx. $21,800 CA)
- Manufacturer: Chery New Energy
- Range: 282 – 352 km EPA (401 – 501 km CLTC)
The iCar 03 is a boxy-styled electric SUV that has attracted considerable international attention under various names, including the Jaecoo J6, Lucano J6, and Chery Fulwin X3. It capitalizes on the rugged, upright aesthetic popularized by the Land Rover Defender, but in an affordable, sub-compact electric format. Despite its tough look, it features an all-aluminum body structure to reduce weight and increase rigidity. It offers above-average off-road capabilities in its dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions, though it is not designed to venture too far off the beaten path.
Lynk & Co Z20
- Base Price: 118,900 RMB (approx. $23,627 CA)
- Manufacturer: Geely Group
- Range: 372 km EPA (530 km CLTC)
Known as the Lynk & Co 02 in Europe, the Z20 is a compact electric coupe crossover with a polarizing fastback design. It sits on Geely’s SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, sharing its DNA with the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X. It distinguishes itself with an original and youthful design language, as well as a focus on connectivity and car-sharing features. The “Z” nomenclature signifies that it is a purely electric model, marking the brand’s shift away from hybrids. It offers dynamic performance and a high-tech cabin typical of Geely’s premium brands.
Nammi 01
- Base Price: 59,800 RMB (approx. $11,883 CA)
- Manufacturer: Dongfeng
- Range: 232 – 302 km EPA (330 – 430 km CLTC)
Marketed in Europe as the Dongfeng Box, the Nammi 01 is a city hatchback that looks more upscale than its price suggests. It sports a chic, rounded design with flush door handles and frameless windows. Inside, the cabin is surprisingly plush, featuring quilted faux-leather materials and a large floating touchscreen. It supports fast charging (30 to 80% in 30 minutes), which is rare for EVs in this ultra-low price bracket. It is designed as a direct competitor to the BYD Dolphin, but at a significantly lower price.
Nammi 06
- Base Price: 89,900 RMB (approx. $17,864 CA)
- Manufacturer: Dongfeng
- Range: 282 – 331 km EPA (401 – 471 km CLTC)
The Nammi 06 is a small SUV that displays a serious family resemblance to certain Kia models, even though the alliance between the manufacturers ended in 2021. It shares the same “Quantum Architecture S3” platform as the Nammi 01 but offers a longer wheelbase and higher ground clearance. The Nammi 06 retains the brand’s cute and accessible style but adds practicality with a larger 500 L trunk and more rear legroom. It targets small families needing the versatility of a crossover without the bulk or cost of a traditional SUV.
Zeekr X
- Base Price: 149,900 RMB (approx. $29,787 CA)
- Manufacturer: Geely Group
- Range: 359 – 393 km EPA (512 – 560 km CLTC)
The Zeekr X is a compact urban luxury SUV that punches well above its weight class. Designed by former Audi designer Stefan Sielaff, it features sharp, futuristic lines, frameless doors, and frameless mirrors. Inside, it offers unique features like a sliding central screen that moves to the passenger side and a “4D Cloud” lounge seat. Mechanically linked to the Lynk & Co Z20 and the Volvo EX30, the Zeekr X is tuned for a sportier and more engaging drive. It is currently spearheading Zeekr’s expansion into global markets.
