The all-new Shenlan S7 electric SUV has been unveiled to the media in China. Shenlan brand is a joint project between Changan, battery maker CATL, and technology giant Huawei, and is positioned above the base Changan brand and below the premium Avatr brand.
The S7 is the second product in Shenlan’s portfolio after the SL03 electric sedan, which debuted last year. Shenlan (深蓝) which translates into ‘Deep Blue’ will use the English name Deepal for export markets.
Related: Changan’s Shenlan SL03 Ready to Rival Tesla Model 3 in China
Positioned as a mid-sized SUV, the styling of the S7 SUV is pretty much similar to the SL03 electric sedan with slim LED headlamps, sharp-edged bumpers, and connected tail lights at the back. Plus there are frameless doors, flushed door handles, black window frames, black wheel arches, black sideboards, and a large spoiler above the rear window. The S7 stands on 20-inch wheels with brake calipers painted in body color.
The exterior of Shenlan S7
Shenlan S7 measures 4,750/1,930/1,625 mm with a 2,900 wheelbase. For the sake of comparison, the Kia Sportage that we have here is 4,480/ 1,855/ 1,635 mm with a 2,670 mm wheelbase. This makes the Shenlan S7 considerably larger than the Sportage while having a much larger wheelbase. In fact, the wheelbase is even longer than the current gen XV70 Camry (2,820 mm).
Interior of Shenlan S7
The minimalist neat & clean interior with orange/ brown hues gives an impressive look. The S7 has a HUD and a central screen for infotainment, there is a flat-bottomed multi-function steering with small controller buttons on either side. Behind the steering wheel, there is a gear selector, a position that has become quite common in Chinese cars of late. The central tunnel gets wireless chargers for two smartphones, a couple of cup holders, and a storage box hidden under the guise of a center armrest. The S7 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip to make all the sensors and computers work. The system also supports OTA upgrades.
Related: Huawei’s AITO M7 Launched in China
Shenlan will be available in two variants: an EV and an EREV. However, the company is yet to share the technical details of the two. The Shenlan S7 will have its public debut at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show in April and will be launched in the Chinese car market thereafter. The price is expected to start around 160,000 yuan ($23,600).
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com