Seres 3 enters the UK EV market with budget-friendly price tag

Move over, MG ZS EV, there's a new sheriff in town vying for the title of the UK's most affordable electric SUV. The DongFeng Seres 3, a newcomer from China, will arrive this spring with a starting price of $41,192, undercutting its closest competitor by a cool $687.

There's no denying the Seres 3's biggest selling point: its price. At under $41,000, it's the cheapest electric SUV on the market, making the transition to electric mobility more accessible than ever. This aggressive pricing strategy is sure to shake up the market, potentially forcing established players to re-evaluate their offerings.

The Seres 3 boasts a 54 kWh battery, offering a claimed 205 miles WLTP range. While not class-leading, it's enough for most everyday commutes. City dwellers will rejoice with a 315 miles range, perfect for urban errands. However, highway journeys might require more frequent charging stops. With a 30-minute fast charging capability, topping up on the go shouldn't be a major concern. The electric motor delivers 163 hp and propels the Seres 3 from 0-62 mph in 8.9 seconds and onto its top speed of 96 mph. Not exactly neck-snapping, but sufficient for most drivers seeking a comfortable and practical everyday vehicle.

While the Seres 3 might not be a giant, its dimensions offer practical advantages. At 172.6 inches long, it's spacious enough for families with ample legroom for rear passengers and a decent 13.5 ft³ trunk (expandable to 50.2 ft³ with the seats folded). This puts it in direct competition with established mid-size EVs like the MG ZS EV, offering more cargo capacity and potentially better value for money for those seeking a practical electric option. However, keep in mind that its 72.8 inches width might be a tight squeeze for navigating narrow city streets or parking in cramped spaces, so ensure you factor in your typical driving environment when considering its size.

The Seres 3 comes in two trim levels: Active and Spirit. The entry-level Active offers the essentials like a touchscreen, rearview camera, and keyless start, but safety features like lane departure warning are locked away in the pricier Spirit trim. This might leave some budget-conscious buyers wanting more in terms of standard safety equipment.

The Seres 3's budget-friendly price tag and decent range make it an intriguing proposition for budget-conscious EV shoppers. While Chinese automakers are making strides in quality and technology, some skepticism remains. The Seres 3 is a relatively unknown brand, and its long-term reliability and after-sales support are yet to be proven.

Add to it the lack of some standard safety features in the base trim, average performance, and that attractive price tag starts to reveal some corner cutting. Nonetheless, Seres 3 enters a market that’s craving for a cheap EV, and with its decent looks and comfy interior, it just may be the ticket for many buyers who until now were on the fence.

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