Once the QQ hatchback used to be the smallest & the most successful model in Chery’s lineup with record breaking sales in Chinese market. Although the second generation model which debuted in 2013 never saw the same success as its predecessor which at one time was also available in our market.
Now it seems Chery is serious to take its crown back as the bestselling small car in China with the launch of the latest tiny yet cutest electric vehicle (EV) called the QQ Ice Cream that is set to officially go on sale on 28th December 2021. The QQ Ice Cream mini EV will compete against the likes of super-cheap Wuling Hongguang Mini which is currently the highest selling EV in China.
First unveiled in September, the QQ Ice Cream is the first car to appear in Chery’s iCar Ecology sub-division. It measures just 2,980 mm long, 1,496 mm wide and 1,637 mm tall, but with a wheelbase of 1,960 mm and is almost a foot & a half shorter than the 660cc Suzuki Alto we have here which measures 3,395mm in length. The QQ Ice Cream weighs around 700 kg, making it extremely light too.
According to official information, the Chery QQ Ice Cream will be offered in three delicious flavors, namely Pudding, Cone and Sundae. The Pudding has a pre-sale price of 29,900 yuan (PKR 8.32 lac), the Cone at 37,900 yuan (PKR 10.55 lac), while the top-spec Sundae is priced at 43,900 yuan (PKR 12.22 lac).
The QQ Ice Cream features a rear electric motor rated at 26.8 hp and 85 Nm of torque, which is enough for a top speed of 100 km/h. A lithium iron phosphate battery powers the e-motor and will come in two capacities providing either 120 or 170 km of range (NEDC standard).
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In terms of design the QQ Ice Cream features headlamps with U-shaped DRLs up front between which there is a charging port hidden behind the Chery logo. The lower intake in the apron blends into wide-width trim piece in black with vertical segments and circular sections for fog lamps. Towards the sides, distinct creases can be seen on the fenders and doors, accompanied by a raised window line near the rearmost pillars.
Do you like the Ice Cream?
The rear also features similar treatment as the front with U shaped LED lights and circular reflector elements on the bumper. The Ice Cream also features a dual-tone paint scheme, with a black upper part paired with no less than 7 body colors available. The wheels are 12-inch units wrapped with 145/70 tires.
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Due to a greater wheelbase to length ratio, the QQ Ice Cream can accommodate 4 passengers with ease. Inside, the Ice Cream features a dual-layer flat dashboard with a digital instrument cluster and free-standing touchscreen infotainment system and a two-spoke, multi-function steering wheel. The vehicle was also put on display at the recent Guangzhou Auto Show where various other body iterations were also showcased to attract different set of buyers.
Chery QQ Ice Cream at Guangzhou Auto Show
According to data, the total sales of new energy vehicles in China reached 1.818 million from January to September 2021, rendering a year-on-year growth of 203%. The sales of mini EVs accounted for 33% of new energy passenger vehicles and 40.8% of BEVs (battery electric vehicles). Furthermore, according to a study by JATO Dynamics, the average selling price of a new EV)in China has nearly halved (by 47%) since 2011, while US and European markets have seen EV prices rise over the same period by 38% and 28% respectively.
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It is expected that 2021 full-year sales of EVs will reach nearly 3.3 million units in China with mini EVs making a major contribution towards achieving this feat.
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
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