You don’t know the Deepal S7? This is normal, this electric SUV is only distributed in China for the moment. Too bad for us, since this electric car incorporates technologies that are difficult to find in Europe, and at an unbeatable price.
The list of Chinese automakers seems endless. In this myriad, Deepal caught our attention: the brand has just announced a new version of its family electric SUV, the S7.
A sacred lineage
At first glance, this model really doesn’t turn the tables: the dimensions are almost identical to that of a Tesla Model Y, the general style only follows current standards, in short, obviously, it’s just an SUV in addition. The history of the brand, however, is much more interesting.
Deepal, in fact, is a joint venture between three heavyweights in the sector: the battery manufacturer CATL (which supplies countless manufacturers around the world), the high-tech giant Huawei and the automobile manufacturer Changan. Enough to promise high-end technological background.
The test is transformed
So, certainly, the technical characteristics are average: the Deepal S7 Pro contains a 190 kW (258 hp) engine capable of taking the beast from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 s, all powered by a battery with a capacity of 66.8 kWh. The announced range is 520 km, but under the local CLTC standard – which, as we have seen, is much more generous than European standards.
The technological content, on the other hand, is much more interesting. In addition to a traditional level 2 autonomous driving system, we can count on a 15.6-inch central screen running an in-house OS, capable of supporting Apple CarPlay or Huawei HiCar, a Chinese alternative to Android Auto.
State-of-the-art systems, even capable of making Volkswagen crack! Note, however, the absence of Android Auto, further proof of the country’s distrust of Google.
The photos of the interior are stunning. The presentation is opulent, with a large glass roof, quilted upholstery and obviously very welcoming seats, while the screens are absolutely everywhere: on the dashboard, of course, but also at the rear…and even in the windshield. passing sun!
Head-up vision is also present. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, it projects driving information (speed, navigation, driving aids, etc.) onto the windshield in XXL format: we are talking about a 53-inch display, which is immense. We seem to get what we pay for, and this impression only deepens when we discover the price of this electric SUV.
A quality/price ratio that is difficult to beat
Because yes, this Deepal S7 Pro with all the equipment we told you about is accessible from 179,900 yuan, or 23,115 euros once converted. Let’s put it in context: in China, a Tesla Model Y Propulsion is priced at 263,900 yuan (33,900 euros), but without a head-up view. The Mercedes-Benz EQS, which we tested in SUV version, offers an advanced augmented reality system, but it is priced from…956,000 yuan (122,831 euros), despite a price reduction!
Nuance though: let’s keep in mind that Chinese electric cars are known for being listed at incredibly low prices in their domestic market. Among the reasons are cheap labor, more affordable technologies and even subsidies from the Chinese government (we explain everything here). A situation which fades when cars arrive in Europe, in particular because of the cost of transport or higher taxes.
Should Europe be afraid? Honestly, when we see the continued innovations of Chinese manufacturers, our dear local brands should react, quickly and well. The EU is determined to put obstacles in the way of these new players, but this only concerns its internal market; in the rest of the world, the confrontation is likely to be bloody.