AIWAYS presents U6 ion for the first time
Shanghai-based personal mobility provider, AIWAYS has unveiled the U6 ion electric crossover coupe concept ‘in the metal’ for the first time at the Chengdu Auto Show in China. With a focus on aerodynamics, intelligent technology and lightweight design, the U6 ion investigates the exciting future of the AIWAYS brand. The production version will be AIWAYS’ second all-electric SUV set to go on sale in China and Europe, with a direct-to-customer sales model in Europe in 2021.
Samuel Fu (Fu Qiang), President and Co-founder of AIWAYS commented: “Intended for youthful, environmentally-conscious buyers, the U6 ion concept represents a sportier and more characterful expression of the AIWAYS philosophy. It will appeal to young people who are intrigued by new technology and want to be leaders in the move to electromobility.”
Accentuating the sporty design, the U6 ion features 21" sports wheels, a fastback-style sloping roofline and a two-tone spoiler. The U6 ion's aerodynamics were key during the car’s development, and its shape has been designed to ensure a clean separation of airflow to reduce drag. There are unexpected storage areas in the middle of the back seat and on the side of the door, designed to house flashlights, electric scooters and outdoor equipment.
Inside, drivers are met by a square, sports steering wheel, a 7" floating gauge providing driving and system information, and a unique drive selector modelled on the throttle leavers found in luxurious power yachts. Integrated sports seats are complemented by racing-style ‘tab’ door handles, and doors feature customisable backlit panels.
Multimedia is controlled via a 14.6" touchscreen display, and on top of the dashboard is a ‘little robot’. This human machine interface has advanced voice recognition that can talk and listen to occupants and be used to control numerous vehicle and entertainment features.
The production version of the U6 ion, which will be known as the U6, will be built upon the same innovative MAS (More Adaptable Structure) as its U5 all-electric SUV sibling. The vehicle will have a range of over 500km, L3+ autonomous driving and upgraded connectivity for more intuitive driver interaction.
AIWAYS and the U5
Before the U6 comes to market, AIWAYS’ debut vehicle, the U5, will be the first electric vehicle from a Chinese startup to go on sale in Europe. The AIWAYS U5 has a WLTP range of above 400km, and in 2019, it completed a Guinness World Record breaking 53-day road trip from Xi’an, China to Frankfurt, Germany. The team covered 15,022 kilometres in two AIWAYS U5 prototypes and passed through more than a dozen European countries.
Business orders for the AIWAYS U5 started in April 2020, and more news on customer orders will follow soon.
