KAIYI E-Qute 04

Inside, the Kaiyi E-Qute 04 offers a vibrant cabin layout, which offers a mix of bright-coloured soft-touch materials and black hard plastics. Its seats might not be the plushiest in its segment, but they still offer pretty decent cushioning and ergonomics for all passengers. For its size, this EV’s first and second rows can effectively accommodate five passengers (with the average Filipino height). At the rear, this hatch offers decent trunk space for groceries and light luggage.

For its price, its dashboard looks pretty good. Drivers get a 6.7-inch full-digital instrument panel, a multi-function steering wheel, and a column shift lever. Meanwhile, all passengers can enjoy a 10.25-inch central LCD infotainment display that is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity, and is linked to a 6-speaker sound system. The higher trim gets one USB Type-A and one Type-C port, while the lower trim gets a single USB port.

From the outside, the Kaiyi E-Qute 04 displays a cute, futuristic look. It has an assertive-looking facade illuminated by LED headlights, which resemble a hawk’s eyes, along with a pair of DRLs. Additionally, a grille with a honeycomb pattern adds more detail to its demeanor. 

Furthermore, it has a two-toned hypermodern silhouette, accentuated by concealed electric door handles and a floating roof-like architecture. Its back end, which features triangular LED combination tail lights, looks like a smaller and cuter version of the X3 Pro’s rear. 

Both variants of the Kaiyi E-Qute 04 measure 3,720 mm in length, 1,700 mm in width, and 2,520 mm in wheelbase. The 410 KM variant comes with a 1,608-mm height and a 129-mm minimum ground clearance, while its 300 KM counterpart measures 1,599 mm in height and has a 120-mm minimum ground clearance. This model line runs on 15-inch wheels.

The Kaiyi E-Qute 04 comes with a MacPherson Strut at the front and a Multi-Link at the rear. Its suspension setup comes with front and rear Coil Springs. Thanks to this setup, you’ll enjoy this EV’s nimble maneuverability and pretty decent absorption of bumps and uneven concrete pavements for its size. Ultimately, the E-Qute 04 can deliver a smooth and plush riding experience for everyone on board. 

Both variants of the Kaiyi E-Qute 04 run on a single permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates a peak power of 40 kW (54 hp) and a max torque of 110 Nm (but with different battery capacities). 

The higher trim’s electric motor is powered by a 39.8-kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery pack that delivers a 410-km CLTC cruising range. On the other hand, the lower trim’s motor is powered by the 28.08-kWh version of the same battery pack, which delivers a 300-km CLTC cruising range. Both battery packs have a DC fast charging time of 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes.

In the city, this EV is quite peppy and can still deliver a lively pull off the line. However, due to its electric motor’s limited power, it would be advisable to think twice before attempting to overtake other vehicles on free-flowing highways. But, on the plus side, this EV delivers impressive smoothness and efficiency wherever it goes. For travellers and adventure-seekers, the higher trim has the upper hand in terms of touring capability. 

The Kaiyi E-Qute 04 utilizes discs for both front and rear braking. Its braking setup is supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control system, electronic stability control, anti-slip regulation, and dynamic stability control. This EV also comes with front and rear parking radars, an around view monitor, tire pressure monitoring system, and front double airbags among others.

For first-time EV buyers or young professionals, the Kaiyi E-Qute 04 stands out as a practical and capable choice among the current set of EV hatchbacks in the local market. It delivers impressive versatility through top-notch city usability and respectable touring capability.