Recently, one of the more intriguing vehicles from China is the Changan E07, set to be called the Deepal E07 in Australia. This vehicle resembles a sleek fastback SUV but has an additional feature—it can transform into a pickup truck. Notably, the rear section of the roof glides backward similar to GMC Envoy The XUV, Studebaker Wagonaire, or perhaps the Tesla Cybertruck could be options. Additionally, the rear gate can flip down like that of a traditional pickup truck. This vehicle is destined for multiple markets beyond China, such as Australia, providing insights into its potential price range.
Versatile And Powerful
The standout feature of the E07 undoubtedly lies within its roof and lined cargo space. This component functions electrically, making operation quite user-friendly. Visually appealing, it boasts an elegant front end coupled with a sleek roof contour. For a model targeting lifestyles similar to those likely considering alternatives like the one mentioned, this car exhibits notably subtle exterior paneling. Hyundai Santa Cruz and Subaru Outback If anything, it might benefit from a bit more whimsy to add some character.
It might benefit from increased cargo capability as well. Changan specifies the E07’s maximum load at 661 pounds. In contrast, the Hyundai Santa Cruz has apayload limit of 1,411 pounds. Ford Maverick is capped at a maximum of 1,500 pounds. Therefore, E07 purchasers ought to ensure they do not exceed this load limit for their vehicles.
The E07 compensates somewhat for its modest cargo space with impressive power. The single-engine, rear-wheel-drive variant delivers 338 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. According to Changan, this model can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds. In contrast, the twin-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration offers significantly more at 590 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque. This setup claims a sprint time of just 3.9 seconds from rest to 62 mph. Both versions come equipped with a 90 kWh battery pack featuring a nickel-manganese-cobalt lithium-ion chemistry paired with an advanced 800-volt system. Based on the drive layout selected, they offer an approximate driving range between 389 and 399 miles as per the NEDC tests; however, these figures may drop when measured using the stricter EPA standards.
Not Too Expensive
Deepal, Changan’s brand in Australia, has started accepting orders for the E07 model, with deliveries scheduled for the third quarter of this year. The base version equipped with a single motor begins at AUD 64,900, equivalent to USD 38,843. This price point falls below the entry-level turbocharged Hyundai Santa Cruz but exceeds the lowest-priced turbocharged Ford Maverick by almost $10,000. For an upcharge of AUD 73,900, or approximately USD 44,229, customers can opt for the dual-motor variant of the E07. Despite costing slightly more compared to turbocharged versions of both the Santa Cruz and higher-tier Mavericks, the E07 offers significantly greater performance capabilities. However, it appears unlikely that the E07 will reach U.S. shores anytime soon because of substantial import duties imposed under previous administrations including those led by President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.