Articles by David Morley

If the GWM Ora appeals but you want a little more pizzazz, then the GT version might be what you're looking for.

The GWM Ora Long Range gets the same driveline as the Standard Range, but with a 63kWh battery for 420km of range and it costs $47,990, before on-road costs.

GWM's all-electric Ora comes in three forms, but the first two are really the same vehicle with the option of a larger battery.

Having taken the decision to launch the Ora small EV to Australia, GWM is now looking to further develop that market space with the more powerful, bigger and sportier model known as the Lightning Cat in some markets.

GWM Australia has strongly hinted that the Tank 300 Hybrid four-wheel-drive in showrooms now, could soon be joined by an even bigger, tougher, more luxurious off-roader.

A small-car invasion from a new country is nothing new. The Japanese did it in the 1960s and '70s with the likes of Datsun, Toyota and Mitsubishi rewriting the book on what Aussies wanted in a small car.

GWM's all-electric small SUV, the Ora, goes on sale today with pricing that is sure to give the competition plenty to think about.

Given the sharp driveaway pricing to begin with, the flagship version of the GWM Tank 300 Hybrid is likely to be a popular choice. And at $60,990, it's pretty easy to see how many buyers will be able to justify the extra spend.That's backed up by the extra gear, too, including a front locking differential (the base-model has a locking rear diff only) heated and cooled front seats, Nappa Leather upholstery, self-parking, 18-inch alloy wheels and wireless device charging.Safety runs to the usual driver aids we're increasingly used to seeing including AEB, rear-cross traffic alert, lane-keeping and active cruise-control. Six air-bags including full-length side-curtain bags are also part of the package.The Ultra shares its driveline with the Lux, meaning a turbocharged two-litre petrol engine augmented by an electric motor for 258kW and 615Nm. Transmission is a nine-speed auto with low-ratios for rock-hopping. Although based on the GWM ute chassis, the Tank gets a coil-sprung rear axle for greater ride comfort.

GWM's new off-roader breaks with tradition by offering a petrol-electric hybrid driveline. The entry-level model, the Lux, arrives in showrooms at $55,990 drive-away, making it appear to be great value.Standard equipment even in this entry-level variant is good with twin 12.3 inch screens, a powered driver's seat, full Apple and Android connectivity, digital radio, powered and folding exterior mirrors, a sunroof and on-board tyre pressure monitoring.Safety is looked after with the latest driver aids including cross-traffic alert, active cruise-control and autonomous emergency braking. Lane-keeping assistance and parking sensors are also part of the deal. Tank has been locally tested and achieved five ANCAP stars.Power comes from a two-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with the electric motor adding enough power and torque to take the total to 258kW and 615Nm. There's a nine-speed automatic transmission and the Tank also features a low-ratio transfer-case to give proper off-road gearing.

Electric vehicles are known for their reduced running and servicing costs. That, combined with the environmental argument, is the reason they exist after all.