Deepal S05 and Deepal S07 will hit the high-end electric car market in 2025

【PCauto】Driven by the global wave of electric vehicles, local automotive brands Proton and Perodua have already made strides in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The upcoming Deepal S05 and Deepal S07, set to launch in mid-2025, will also enter the domestic market, further expanding the EV market's volume.

Let's first look at the performance of local brands. Proton's e.MAS 7 has achieved impressive results, with orders exceeding 2,500 units since its launch. Last month, the e.MAS 7 secured the top spot in pure EV sales with 421 units sold, making it the most affordable and popular electric vehicle in Malaysia.

The e.MAS 7 is built on Geely's Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform, featuring an advanced 12-in-1 intelligent electric motor and Cell To Body (CTB) battery architecture. It is equipped with a new-generation lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, ensuring both safety and efficiency. The vehicle has also received a 5-star rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (ASEAN NCAP) and comes with L2-ADAS (Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and a 360-degree camera, offering commendable driving experience and safety. It is available in Prime and Premium versions, equipped with 49.52kWh and 60.22kWh batteries, respectively, offering ranges of 345km and 410km, and supports DC fast charging.

As for Perodua, it remains a beloved local automotive brand in Malaysia. In the first half of 2024, Perodua's cumulative sales reached 169,847 units, solidifying its significant position in the passenger vehicle market. However, in the EV sector, Perodua's efforts have been relatively modest compared to Proton's aggressive push, and its presence in the market has not yet matched the buzz generated by the Proton e.MAS 7.

Against this market backdrop, the arrival of the Deepal S05 and Deepal S07 sparks much anticipation. In terms of exterior design, both vehicles exude unique charm. The Deepal S05 boasts a futuristic and stylish design, with sci-fi elements that give it high recognition and a low drag coefficient, reducing energy consumption and offering a smoother driving experience. The Deepal S07, on the other hand, features a youthful and fashionable design with rich details, appealing to many young consumers.

In terms of space, both models perform exceptionally well. The Deepal S05 has a wheelbase of 2,880mm, approaching the golden ratio, providing a spacious and comfortable interior that meets daily driving and storage needs. The Deepal S07 takes it a step further with a 2,900mm wheelbase, offering significant advantages in practical space. Its front-row zero-gravity seats ensure comfort during long drives, while the trunk's loading capacity is excellent, making it convenient for family trips or transporting items.

Smart features are a key area of competition in the EV market, and both the Deepal S05 and S07 excel in this regard. The Deepal S05 is equipped with the Deepal OS 3.0 infotainment system and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip. The Deepal S07 leads in intelligent assisted driving, providing safer and more convenient driving experiences, whether on highways or during parking.

Power and charging capabilities are core strengths of EVs. The Deepal S05 features 3C ultra-fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in just 15 minutes, significantly reducing charging time. It also includes micro-core high-frequency pulse heating technology, addressing range issues in low-temperature environments. While Malaysia's climate is predominantly hot, this technology offers added assurance for occasional trips to colder regions.

The Deepal S07 has already entered the Thai market for six months, achieving remarkable sales performance. In April 2024, it topped the sales charts for all-brand pure electric vehicles in Thailand, with sales increasing by 90.9% month-on-month and capturing an 18.4% market share, surpassing popular models like the BYD Dolphin and selling 754 units in a single month.

The competition in Malaysia's EV market has just begun with the Proton e.MAS 7. The Deepal S05 and S07 are unlikely to directly compete with Proton and Perodua but may make their mark in the mid-to-high-end EV market. Their arrival is expected to further enrich the local EV landscape, offering consumers more choices and driving the industry's growth.