2023 Aiways U6. Already in Israel
The Aiways U6 is the second model of the Chinese brand, Aiways, specialized in the development of electric vehicles to compete with European electric cars. The large roomy electric coupe-like SUV produced from 2021 has received a new interior, improved electric drive system and driving range of 405 km. It was based on the mid-size SUV, the Aiways U5, which the Israelis have already liked: the U5 appeared on our market in 2021, almost immediately took the 4th place in the electric car sales rating and found 1,800 buyers in a short period of time. And now the full-size coupe-like Aiways U6 will arrive on the Israeli market: the 2023 model can already be purchased at a price of 219,000 shekels. The start of sales was announced by Auto Hen, an importer of Aiways electric vehicles to Israel.
The 2023 Aiways U6 full-size coupe-like SUV in Israel is not much more expensive than the "regular" mid-size SUV, the Aiways U5. At the same time, the U6 Prime model costs 26,000 shekels more expensive. But the difference in appearance and equipment is noticeable. In addition, the manufacturer has taken into account the mistakes of its first model and has deeply modernized the U6.
Exterior
Since the U6 is a coupe version of the U5, it is supposed to have a sloping roof, well-balanced front and rear ends, compressed by the sides. The vehicle is well-elaborated, clearly demonstrating the influence of European experts, who work for Aiways. From the U5, the coupe-like SUV has inherited narrow LEDs with giant brake cooling grills at the bottom, as well as vertical ‘wings’ along the sides and a rear spoiler. The Aiways U6 offers impressive aerodynamic performance (coefficient of 0.27) and light weight. The SUV has a length of 4.8 meters (120 mm longer than the U5), a width of 1.88 meters, a height reduced by 60 mm to 1.64 meters, a wheelbase of 2.8 meters. It is a pretty big vehicle. The trunk of the coupe-like SUV is smaller than that of the U5 model: it ranges from 472 to 1,260 liters.
Interior
The high quality interior is very ergonomic. Comprehensive modernization has touched everything that is possible. A digital dashboard divided into three parts has been replaced with a narrow 8.2-inch display strip that shows only basic information. The 12.3-inch multimedia system has been replaced with a new infotainment system with a huge 14.6-inch touchscreen. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are already offered as standard, as well as a personal profile for each driver and a remote control app.
Unlike the U5, the U6 has a glove box. In addition, there is a new steering wheel with control buttons. All finishing materials have been revised, all black glossy plastic has been removed, and the front console has become more comfortable, at least the compartments are definitely more accessible. There are several USB connectors. There is a new touch interface for climate control next to the center armrest. There is also a very original-looking handle for switching between driving modes.
Safety
The new Aiways U6 is equipped with a full range of advanced safety systems, including autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control, active lane departure control, blind spot monitoring, automatic parking system, safe exit assist, traffic sign recognition and other systems.
Trim levels for Israel
In Israel, the 2023 Aiways U6 will be offered in a single, but very rich, PRIME version. It includes: leather interior, 14.6-inch multimedia screen, wireless charging pad, power-adjustable and heated front seats, panoramic sunroof and tinted windows, 20-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, separate climate control, front and rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera, digital key (via Bluetooth) and smart key, hands-free tailgate, tow hook and more.
Motors and dynamics
According to the manufacturer, the new 2023 Aiways U6 has received a more highly efficient and quieter electric propulsion system. It comes with a modernized electric motor located on the front axle: power, compared to the U5, has grown from 204 to 218 hp. The new motor allows you to accelerate to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds (the U5 does it in 7.5-7.8 seconds), but the maximum speed has remained the same 160 km/h.
The battery has the same capacity, 63 kWh, so the driving range of the U6, compared to the U5, has not changed and is 405 km (in ideal conditions). In practice, the average consumption is closer to 22.9 kWh per 100 km and the driving range is up to 280 km. Standard equipment includes a three-phase charger for AC home charging up to 11 kW (full charge time 7 hours). There is also Fast DC charging with a power of up to 90 kW, capable of recharging the SUV from 20% to 80% in 35 minutes. The regenerative braking system now offers the possibility of single-pedal driving: releasing the accelerator pedal will allow completely stopping the car.
