Beijing, China – April 25, 2024 – Chery New Energy turned heads at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show with the unveiling of the iCAR X25 concept car. This radical design, dubbed a “ONE BOX” off-road MPV, hints at a future filled with bold experimentation in the electric vehicle (EV) space.
A Boxy Reimagining of the MPV:
The iCAR X25 embodies the “ONE BOX” design philosophy, a concept popularized in the Japanese K-car market. This approach prioritizes a boxy shape to maximize interior space and practicality. Unveiled earlier this month at the “iCAR Brand Night,” the X25 stands out from its siblings, the iCAR 03 and iCAR V23, with a daring design that pushes the boundaries of the traditional MPV.
Exterior Design: A Blend of Styles
- SUV-MPV Fusion: The X25’s exterior seamlessly blends elements from both SUVs and MPVs. The front end borrows design cues from the iCAR V23, sporting a rugged bumper and headlights. However, the compact size and high ride height give it a unique and somewhat adorable character.
- Panoramic Views and Bold Lines: The A-pillars are sharply angled and extend from the very front of the car, eliminating the need for a traditional hood space commonly found on SUVs. This design, seen on the Baojun KiWi EV, allows for a massive windshield, promising excellent driver visibility. A closer look reveals a hidden dual A-pillar design, with both A-pillars and B-pillars cleverly concealed. This leaves the thick C-pillars as the main design element on the sides. The flat roofline stretches to the rear, creating a sleek and elongated silhouette that further distinguishes the X25 from traditional boxy MPVs.
- Tech-Forward Features and Off-Road Capability: Modern touches abound on the X25. Side-view cameras replace traditional mirrors, hidden door handles maintain clean lines, and a roof rack hints at potential adventure capabilities. Uniquely, the rear passenger doors hinge opposite each other, adding a touch of whimsy to the design.
The true off-road prowess of the X25 lies in its 21-inch wheels and aggressively sculpted wheel arches. The short overhangs at the front and rear, coupled with the promised electric four-wheel-drive system, suggest a vehicle ready to tackle more than just city streets.
- Intriguing Rear Design: The rear end throws another curveball with an intake vent located behind the C-pillar. Considering the range-extended powertrain and the unconventional front design, speculation suggests this vent might play a functional role in cooling the range extender potentially placed near the rear axle. The clean lines of the tailgate and the rugged rear bumper are complemented by a unique “backpack” spoiler, adding a touch of wildness to the overall look.
Interior and Powertrain: Details Still Under Wraps
While Chery hasn’t revealed the interior design yet, the iCAR X25 is confirmed to be powered by a range-extended electric powertrain currently under development. The core components will likely include a high-efficiency (44.5%) range extender and a high-integration asynchronous front-drive motor. This configuration promises to eliminate range anxiety, a major concern for many potential EV buyers.
Editor’s Take: A Bold Step Forward
The iCAR X25 is a bold statement from Chery New Energy. It represents a significant departure from traditional car designs and highlights the limitless possibilities of the electric vehicle era. This concept car is a testament to the freedom electric vehicles offer designers and engineers to push boundaries and create truly unique vehicles. We eagerly await the production version of the iCAR X25 and hope to see more automakers embrace such innovative design concepts to enrich the market and inject fresh originality into the world of automobiles.
We expect to receive more information about the iCAR X25’s interior design, production plans, and potential launch date in the coming months.
