The GWM Ora 03 GT leaves a mixed impression: On the one hand, it is a compact and nippy electric car, but on the other hand, some shortcomings also came to light during the test drive.
GWM Ora 03 GT
Patrick Schäfer | Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden GmbH
The GWM Ora 03 is 4.24 m long, 1.83 m wide and 1.60 m high. Formerly known as the "Funky Cat" by Great Wall Motors, this compact electric car from China stands out with its friendly retro design: Big eyes at the front, soft curves and a tidy rear end characterize this small electric car. The GT version tested differs from the other models in the GT design with bumpers, grill, special 18" wheels and a roof spoiler.
As with the GWM Wey 03, the first thing you notice in the interior is a strange chemical smell. But the ambience of the small Ora is almost luxurious: The two-tone interior in sporty black and red, chrome rocker switches or red seat belts leave a lasting impression. As with earlier Jaguar models, a rotary switch is used to select the driving mode. The memory seats made of imitation leather look good, but are too soft and have seat cushions that are too short. But they are electrically adjustable to eight different positions, offer seat heating and ventilation, and a massage function. Thanks to the 2.65-meter wheelbase, two adults can be seated relatively comfortably in the rear, but the boot only offers a modest 285 liters of luggage space. With the rear seat folded down, the space increases to 858 liters.
Electronics + Connectivity
There are only a few buttons left in the Ora. The narrow display in front of the driver is reminiscent of the VW ID. and, despite its size of 10.25", requires a certain amount of time to get used to with a lot of small pieces of information. The panoramic instrument also offers an equally large multimedia touchscreen that is responsible for almost all other functions. But here, too, the display is too small and the screen is not particularly sensitive. It requires some concentration to operate because many submenus and unclear labels (such as Mobile Service for the phone) are distracting. In addition, every input in the vehicle is acknowledged with an audible signal. As in the tested Wey, the AI voice control has problems with comprehension. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Driver Assistance Systems
The driver assistance systems in the Ora also present a mixed picture. A very sensitive setup results in a large number of warning and information tones, as well as flashing symbols, which often cannot be assigned due to the small display. The ACC works quite roughly and with loud grinding noises from the brakes. However, these noises could not be reproduced when the brake was applied normally, presumably because the recuperation intervenes more strongly. In addition, the cruise control is annoying every time it is activated with the message: "ACC is activated. Please remain attentive". Unfortunately, the GWM has no resume button, so that the speed has to be readjusted after a complete interruption. The "emergency steering function" is a bit nervous, as is the driver monitoring, which warns even when you glance to the side ("Stay alert!").
Engine + Drive
The GWM Ora 03 GT is powered by a permanently excited synchronous motor that delivers 126 kW (171 hp). With a maximum torque of 250 Nm, spinning front tires are possible at traffic light start even without the sport mode engaged. The small car weighs only 1.65 t, the handling is good-natured and allows for brisk driving. The "Sport" steering mode improves the unresponsive and too light steering. The rather tightly tuned suspension, on the other hand, tends to rumble. Overall, the Ora 03 is quite suitable for longer distances – if it weren't for the range. According to the data sheet, the 63 kWh battery in the top version should allow for up to 420 km. In the test, however, it was barely over 300 km when fully charged at temperatures around 5° C. The recuperation strength can be set to one of three levels on the monitor. However, it is reset to "normal" each time you start driving. Fast charging is actually supposed to be done with a charging power of up to 70 kW, but the values hardly ever exceeded 30 kW. As a result, the time needed to fully charge was always over an hour. The Ora 03 can be charged at home with 11 kW.
Pros and Cons GWM Ora 03 GT
The Ora 03 GT is a snazzy city car, offers an eye-catching design and, in the top-of-the-range version, plenty of comfort. However, the "Funky Cat" also has weaknesses in terms of operation, fast charging and range. In addition, the small electric car is not cheap: The top-of-the-range version tested costs upwards of €49,490. At least the prices start at 38,990 euros for the Ora 03 300 with a smaller 48 kWh battery.
Pro
+ Superior GT equipment
+ Compact dimensions
+ Snappy driving behavior
Contra
- Cumbersome operation
- Too many warning and signal tones
- Charging power and range
This is a partly automated translation of this German article.
