What's the difference?
Farizon, the commercial vehicle division of Chinese automotive maker Geely, is a new competitor in Australia’s van market having recently launched its full-electric V7E.
Designed to attract buyers in the popular mid-size (2.5-3.5-tonne GVM) commercial van segment, Farizon claims its V7E has the payload capacity, cargo volume and pricing needed to compete with traditional diesel rivals.
We recently spent a working week aboard this new Chinese contender to see how it measures up as a potential tool of trade for tradies, couriers, SMEs, fleets and other commercial van buyers.
You’re getting flooded with new electric mid-size SUVs from China, I know. But if you’re struggling to recall them all, just remember – this is the good-looking one.
It’s the Deepal S07, the spearhead for the Deepal brand's new presence in Australia, and I reckon it looks damn sharp.
But is there substance to match the style? And can it take on the likes of the Kia EV5, Tesla Model Y and XPeng G6?
Let's find out, shall we?
These are early days for Farizon in Australia and the V7E is indicative of that. Although it offers attractive sub-$54K drive-away pricing, peppy performance and substantial payload/cargo volume ratings, it lacks refinement in ride and handling, elements of cabin design and active safety calibration which detract from the driving experience. Whether this newcomer’s negatives outweigh its positives, though, only a potential buyer can decide.
The Deepal S07 has the makings of a great family friendly EV, but with some quirks that really need to be ironed out.