How does it compare?
Range
The FAW Besturn E01 boasts a range of 450 km (280 miles) on a full charge, which puts it reasonably competitive. The Hyundai Kona Electric, with its 64 kWh battery, stretches things further to about 482 km (300 miles). Meanwhile, the Kia e-Niro shows an almost identical gusto, covering 455 km (283 miles). Across the aisle, the Chevrolet Bolt EV surprises with its zippy compact design, offering 416 km (258 miles). Then, don’t forget the Volkswagen ID.4, clocking in at 402 km (250 miles). And oh yes, it’s a bit of a mixed bag here for the Besturn.
Acceleration
In a game of zero to hundred, the FAW Besturn E01 moves with tantalizing ease, taking about 9 seconds to hit 100 km/h (62 mph). The Kona Electric does it slightly brisker, lightning up to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The e-Niro, for a slice of context, bridges the sprint in about 7.8 seconds, a fraction more brisk. Meanwhile, the Bolt EV and ID.4 both manage this sprint in a mere 6.5 and 8.5 seconds, respectively, leaving the land of lethargy far behind. Speed, it seems, crowns different champions.
Power
When you pop open the bonnets, the Besturn E01 parades a dedicated 187 horsepower, while the Kona Electric flexes at 201 h.p. (150 kW). The e-Niro stays in the same athletic division at 201 h.p. And, ah, the Bolt EV whispers rogue with its 200 h.p. also. Over on the German front, the ID.4 gets into the same arena around 201-295, depending on the variant. Not exactly David and Goliath, but some might have a tighter squeeze.
Charging Time
Plugging in the Besturn E01 delivers surprises with its reasonable recharge strategy. A fast charger will get you from 10% to 80% in a timely 30 minutes. The Kona Electric follows suit, hitting the charge mark similarly around the 54-minute lane. Kia e-Niro? About the same. The Bolt EV winds its ticker closer to this frame, usually around an hour. The ID.4, however, turns heads with its DC fast charging, delivering gaps filled to 80% within an enticing 38 minutes.
Price
As our pockets clang with currency, it turns out the Besturn E01 is quite the economical addition at $30,500 (approx. £22,500; €26,500). The Kona Electric digs a deep pocket hole at closer to $37,190 (about £27,500; €32,000). The e-Niro oscillates around $39,090 (around £29,000; €33,500). The eye-catching Bolt EV? You’re looking at $31,995 (about £23,500; €27,500). Lastly, the intelligent German craft of the ID.4 reels at $39,995 (about £29,500; €34,000). The Besturn here provides quite a shocker when the wallet wars are tallied.
So, shall we conclude that Besturn E01 stands its ground? Surely, there’s a lot more under the hood than meets the eye.
