The Forthing Taikon 5 is set to make waves in the Australian market, offering an affordable and innovative electric vehicle (EV) option. With a starting price of $36,990 for the Range Extender Hybrid Luxury model, it's clear that Forthing is aiming to disrupt the EV space. But what makes this car truly stand out? Let's dive in and explore the key features, pricing, and implications of this exciting new arrival.
A Budget-Friendly EV Option
One thing that immediately stands out is the Taikon 5's competitive pricing. At $36,990, it's not just the cheapest mid-size electric SUV in Australia, but also the most affordable extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) on the market. This is particularly fascinating given the recent announcement of the EREV version of the base Leapmotor B10 Style, which carries a price tag of $37,888. What makes this even more impressive is that the Taikon 5 undercuts the price of the BYD Atto 3 Essential, a mid-size SUV that starts at $39,990 plus on-roads.
A Range of Options
Forthing offers a range of options for buyers, with both EREV and EV versions available. The EV versions combine a 150kW/340Nm front-mounted electric motor with a 64kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, providing a WLTP range of 427km. These can be fast-charged at up to 80kW on DC power. The EREV versions, on the other hand, feature a smaller 31kWh LFP battery and a less powerful 120kW/340Nm electric motor, but include a 75kW/130Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine as a generator. This setup provides an electric range of 170km (WLTP) and a combined range of 937km.
A Feature-Rich Interior
Stepping inside the Taikon 5, you'll find a well-appointed interior with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Exclusive trim level takes things up a notch with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, surround-view camera, wireless phone charger, power tailgate, and an opening panoramic sunroof. The top spec also upgrades the sound system from four speakers to six.
A Network of Showrooms
Forthing has established a network of showrooms across every Australian state, thanks to local distributor Ateco Automotive. This means that potential buyers can easily access information and test drive the Taikon 5, making it more convenient for those interested in electric vehicles.
A Competitive Market
The arrival of the Forthing Taikon 5 in Australia is particularly interesting given the growing popularity of electric vehicles in the country. With a range of options and competitive pricing, it's clear that Forthing is aiming to capture a significant share of the market. However, the company will need to navigate a competitive landscape, with established players like BYD and Leapmotor already offering electric vehicles in Australia.
A Chinese Connection
Forthing is owned by Dongfeng subsidiary Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor, and offers a range of sedans, SUVs, and people movers in the Chinese market. This connection to a major automaker in China raises questions about the company's future plans and its potential to expand its presence in other markets, including Australia.
A Space-Saver Spare Tyre
One detail that I find especially interesting is the inclusion of a standard space-saver spare tyre in the Exclusive variant. This is a rare feature for an EV, and it suggests that Forthing is thinking ahead when it comes to convenience and peace of mind for its customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Forthing Taikon 5 is an exciting new arrival in the Australian market, offering an affordable and feature-rich electric vehicle option. With a range of options and competitive pricing, it's clear that Forthing is aiming to disrupt the EV space. However, the company will need to navigate a competitive landscape and establish a strong presence in the market to succeed. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, the Taikon 5 is certainly one to watch.
