Exploration
Dongfeng eπ 008: A Competitive Electric SUV Set to Launch in China
The Chinese automaker Dongfeng is preparing to debut its new electric SUV, the Dongfeng eπ 008, at the Beijing Auto Show later this month. This follows the successful launch of the eπ 007, an EV sedan, in March.
The Dongfeng eπ 008 is a large electric SUV, measuring approximately 5,002 mm (196.9 inches) in length and a wheelbase of 3,025 mm (119.1 inches). It is considerably larger than its sibling, the eπ 007.
Key specifications of the Dongfeng eπ 008 include a floating 15.6-inch display for the center console and an 8.8-inch LCD instrument cluster. The SUV is designed to seat six passengers and boasts a dual-spoke multi-function steering wheel, leather seats, and a wireless charging pad with ventilation.
The Dongfeng eπ 008 will be available in two powertrain options: a battery electric vehicle (BEV) version and a range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) version. The BEV version is equipped with an 82.3 kWh battery, delivering up to 620 km (385 miles) of range. The EREV version, on the other hand, offers a combined range of 1,220 km (758 miles) and a zero-emission electric range of 202 km (126 miles).
The EREV version of the Dongfeng eπ 008 comes with a 200 kW electric motor and a 82.28 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack. This setup allows the SUV to offer an impressive all-electric range of 154 km (using China's CLTC cycle). The range-extended version also features a four-cylinder 1.5T engine acting as a generator.
The Dongfeng eπ 008 is part of the "Mainstream Technology Series" under the new NEV brand, Dongfeng Aeolus, which was launched last year at the Shanghai Auto Show. Dongfeng aims to develop two product lines under the eπ brand, targeting tech-savvy buyers.
Estimated pricing for the 2026 Dongfeng eπ 008 starts from about 173,600 yuan to 190,600 yuan, roughly $23,900 to $26,200 USD, offered as a limited-time launch price in China. If priced as speculated, the Dongfeng eπ 008 could undercut the BYD Tang.
Dongfeng's struggle to stay relevant in the Chinese car market has been well-documented. The company plans to expand internationally with over 30 models by 2027, but it is unclear yet if the eπ 008 will be sold widely outside China.
In summary, the Dongfeng eπ 008 is a large electric SUV launching soon with advanced tech features, competitive range options, and an estimated price around $24,000–$26,000 USD in China. Its full global availability remains to be seen.
[1] CarNewsChina [2] AutoHome [3] China Car Times [4] China Car Times [5] CarNewsChina
- The new electric SUV, the Dongfeng eπ 008, is set to enter the Chinese market, competing in the automotive industry with its advanced technology and competitive features.
- The finance sector could be impacted by the affordability of the eπ 008, as it is estimated to have a starting price around $24,000–$26,000 USD in China, potentially undercutting competitors such as the BYD Tang.
- In the transportation sector, the Dongfeng eπ 008 offers consumers two powertrain options: a BEV and an EREV, providing extended range options for electric-vehicle users in China and beyond.
- The launch of the Dongfeng eπ 008 marks a strategic move for the company as it aims to create a lifestyle brand under the Dongfeng Aeolus name, targeting tech-savvy buyers in both China and potentially global markets, thereby expanding its presence in the technology industry.
