Brother of the VW Beetle clone is coming to Germany in early 2023 – t3n – digital pioneers
Ora Funky Cat: Electric cars from China soon in German cities. (Image: GWM/Ora)
Ora, the electrical subsidiary of the Chinese car group Great Wall Motors, has set the date for the German launch of its all-electric compact car Funky Cat. Ora has not yet named a price. But it shouldn’t be cheap.
In September 2021, Ora announced its launch in Germany as part of the IAA Mobility and presented the Cat, a compact electric car with retro charm. It is now coming onto the German market as Funky Cat. Instead of autumn 2022, January 2023 is now the target.
The Swiss company Emil Frey Group is responsible for import and distribution responsible, which also operates numerous car dealerships in Germany. Ora wants to offer 200 locations for its own service network. At the price Ora still has tell nothing. But one thing is clear: it won’t be cheap. Observers expect around 30,000 euros.
The 4.24 meter long vehicle is reminiscent of a mixture of a Fiat 500 and a Mini. The manufacturer calls this “Retro-Future” and underscores this design idea with retro headlights paired with dynamic, continuous rear lights.
In the meantime, Ora may have made a mistake in the retro box of the brother model Punk Cat, which went into series production in March 2022. Because the E-Flitzer reminds a little too much of the VW Beetle from the 1950s. It is not known whether VW will take action against this.
However, the Wolfsburg-based car company will deal with the Funky Cat, because it will compete as an ID-3 competitor. The E-Flitzer has some interesting extras like a massage function for the electrically adjustable front seats or a glass roof. Apple Carplay and Android Auto are integrated, as is an induction charger for smartphones.
Voice recognition, voice control and Face ID should also be on board. 360-degree cameras and reversing cameras, volume adjustment to speed, a drowsiness sensor and self-unlocking in the event of a collision are intended to ensure greater safety when driving. The Funky Cat passed the Euro NACP crash test with full marks.
The electric car comes in two versions in terms of battery performance and capacity as well as range. In the more powerful 400-kilowatt variant with a capacity of 63 kilowatt-hours, the built-in battery takes the Funky Cat up to 420 kilometers. The base model has a range of 310 kilometers.
