A NEW EV inspired by the iPhone is heading to the UK – and it’s set to challenge a well-known car firm on its home ground.
With a retro look and practical features, the iCaur V23 – a Chinese-made 4×4, aims to stand out in the growing electric car market.
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Made by Chery-owned iCaur, the five-door electric SUV has sold in China for just under £11,000, according to the BBC, and is now being readied for right-hand drive markets like the UK.
In China, the iCaur is offered under the name “iCar,” but the company adjusted the name for international markets to avoid confusion and better fit local branding.
Aimed at younger drivers, the V23 is marketed as a versatile vehicle for everything from hiking and fishing to off-road trips and everyday use.
Its design deliberately echoes classic 4×4 shapes, with a boxy body, tough underbody, roof rack, and short overhangs.
Inside, it’s stripped back but functional, with a large 15.4-inch touchscreen, a simple layout, and a phone holder.
The rear seats fold down to offer up to 774 litres of space, making it practical for carrying gear or luggage.
The V23 comes with either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, and the top version produces 208bhp with an 82kWh battery, offering over 300 miles of range, according to TechEdt.
According to Top Gear, drivers can also choose off-road tyres and benefit from multi-link rear suspension, making it suitable for rougher terrain.
While prices in China start at around £11,000 and go up to £15,000, it’s unclear what the UK price will be once taxes and import costs are added.
Still, the arrival of the iCaur V23 signals that Chinese electric car makers are ready to compete directly with established Western brands on their own turf.
This move suggests the brand is serious about expanding beyond its home base and making a mark in Europe.
The company also highlights the vehicle’s tech appeal, with its big touchscreen and minimal dashboard buttons, aiming to capture the same sleek, gadget-like feel that has made devices like the iPhone so popular.
For many younger buyers, the mix of tech, style, and environmental credentials could make it an appealing option.
Whether British drivers will take to this new arrival remains to be seen, especially as competition in the electric SUV segment heats up.
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