GWM Ora Unveils Latest EV Saloon called the 'Lightning Cat'

Chinese auto manufacturers Great Wall Motors (GWM) Ora has unveiled a new EV saloon called the 'Lightning Cat' due to be released in 2024.

GWM Ora, a sub-brand of Great Wall Motors, has recently unveiled its newest model, an all-electric premium saloon car, set to rival the Tesla Model 3. The vehicle, referred to as the 'Lightning Cat' in China, will go on sale at the beginning of 2024, with further specifications and pricing details expected to be announced soon.

GWM Ora already has a presence in the UK with its Funky Cat EV, and the Lightning Cat will be the company's second offering in the market. The new saloon car is aimed at competing with the likes of Hyundai's Ioniq 6, the Kia EV6, and Tesla's Model 3. GWM Ora describes its latest addition as sharing the brand's "distinctive retro-futuristic design DNA."

Toby Marshall, Managing Director of GWM Ora UK, described the reveal of the next premium electric vehicle in the UK as a momentous occasion for the brand. He also hinted at further exciting developments to come in the near future. Although the car is to be called the Lightning Cat in China, it's possible it will be called something else in the UK.

The Lightning Cat was showcased at the Shanghai Auto Show earlier this year and has a four-door Ioniq 6-sized design. Its front end features a Porsche-like family design with wide circular headlamps, while the back end has hints of Bentley models with angled rear lights sitting atop the rear haunches.

The interior of the vehicle is similar to that of the Funky Cat, featuring a large central infotainment screen and three instrument dials in front of the driver. The cabin also includes synthetic leather seats, a large panoramic roof, and ambient lighting.

The car is currently available in China with an 83.5 kWh battery, providing a range of over 400 miles, and a dual-motor system delivering 400bhp, allowing for a 0-62mph time of 4.4 seconds. However, in the UK, there may be a cheaper single-motor, two-wheel drive version with less power available.

Later this year, GWM Ora will add new variants of the Funky Cat, including higher-specification options with heated and cooled seats and even a larger battery option.