The new Changan Nevo Q05 electric SUV is making waves in China, pulling back the curtain on its interior ahead of a November sales launch. This fresh challenger to the BYD Atto 3 is set to kick off at an enticing 110,000 yuan (approximately 15,450 USD).
From PHEV to Pure EV
Originally, the Changan Nevo Q05, known domestically as Qiyuan Q05, first hit the scene in 2023 as a plug-in hybrid. It was essentially an electrified version of the petrol-powered Changan CS55 Plus, alias the Changan Uni-S. That initial iteration featured a parallel plug-in hybrid setup, combining an 81 kW (109 hp) 1.5-liter engine with a potent 158 kW (212 hp) e-motor. The top-tier model packed a 19 kWh battery, and its price hovered between 96,900 and 112,900 yuan (13,610 to 15,860 USD).
Despite its appealing price, the previous Q05 didn’t quite capture the market. According to China EV DataTracker, Changan sold 15,247 units domestically. But this year, Changan is hitting refresh, transforming the Q05 into a pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) and pitting it directly against the popular BYD Atto 3, also known as the Yuan Plus.
A Glimpse Inside the Nevo Q05
Step inside the new Nevo Q05 and you’re greeted with a minimalist design, echoing the sophisticated vibe of its sibling, the Q07 SUV. Dominating the center console is a large floating touchscreen, complemented by a sleek LCD instrument cluster nestled behind a sporty D-shaped steering wheel. Physical buttons are almost nowhere to be found, as most functions are handled via the touchscreen or intuitive voice commands.
The center tunnel is thoughtfully designed, featuring dual wireless phone charging pads, a compact button array, two air vents, and a pair of cup holders. There’s also a generous storage compartment tucked away beneath the center tunnel. A stalk-mounted gear shifter keeps the console clean and uncluttered. One standout comfort feature is the front passenger seat’s zero-gravity mode, engineered to alleviate spinal pressure, plus power-operated leg support for ultimate relaxation.
For those in the back, the second-row seats offer a third headrest and a central armrest with two cup holders, providing extra comfort and practicality. A large sunroof bathes the interior in natural light, and independent air vents ensure everyone stays cool. However, a minor quibble could be the prominent ADAS block located behind the windscreen, which might slightly impact visibility.
Power, Range, and Dimensions
The all electric Changan Nevo Q05 is a compact SUV that embraces the brand’s new “Digital Wing 2.0” design language. It sports two-story headlights, a prominent active air intake, a LiDAR sensor on the roof, flush door handles for a sleek profile, and a distinctive single taillight unit.
Dimensionally, the Q05 measures 4435 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1600 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm. It’s slightly more compact than its rival, the BYD Atto 3, being 20 mm shorter, 20 mm narrower, and 15 mm lower.
Motivation comes from a single TZ180XS002 electric motor, delivering a respectable 120 kW (161 hp) of peak power. Battery options, sourced from the Changan-CATL joint venture, include an entry-level 40.3 kWh pack providing a CLTC range of 405 km. For those needing more mileage, a larger 51.9 kWh variant pushes the CLTC range to an impressive 506 km.
With its refreshed electric powertrain, modern interior, and competitive pricing, the Changan Nevo Q05 is ready to carve out its niche in the burgeoning Chinese EV market and give rivals a run for their money.
