The GWM Ora is actually a cool piece of gear. It looks great (if you’re into that kind of thing) and it drives pretty well, too. The interior is different enough to be interesting, yet it still works properly.

The big question is whether your lifestyle meshes with the constraints imposed by going fully electric. You need to have access to appropriate charging infrastructure and, if you can charge at home from solar panels, then you’re a long way in front.

But range is also an issue, so you need to know that the Ora’s range will be sufficient. Perhaps spending a bit extra on the extended range model is worthwhile. Keep in mind its claimed range on paper will also be difficult to reach in the real world, you can shave as much as 30 per cent off depending on driving style and environment.

Ultimately, the Ora is a city car and that’s where it works best thanks to its size and its ability to regenerate power in stop-start driving. That doesn’t mean it won’t work for you, but you need to assess it carefully.

The Ora is produced by Great Wall Motor, or GWM, a Chinese automaker based in Hebei, China.