Xiao Ba has some hot news for you all: Chery's high-end sub-brand Exeed is making a big move recently! The official images of the Exeed Sterra ES extended-range version have just been released, and it's expected to officially go on sale in early March.
This car comes with 30 sensors and dual Nvidia chips with 508 TOPS of computing power, claiming to achieve "map-free smart driving" full-scenario coverage. The most impressive part is the pure electric range of 255 kilometers (CLTC), which is even more powerful than some pure electric cars!
As for pricing, referencing the pure electric version's starting price of 195,900 yuan, the extended-range version will probably go head-to-head with tough competitors like the Changan Qiyuan A07!
Ladies and gentlemen, let me, Xiao Ba, walk you through it in detail! The most intimidating feature of this extended-range version has to be the "Falcon Smart Driving" system.
What does 30 sensors mean? The neighboring Tesla Model 3 only has 8 cameras + 1 millimeter-wave radar. Not to mention the computing power of the dual Nvidia DRIVE ORIN chips, which is equivalent to running 40 PS5 consoles simultaneously!
But then again, whether this setup can actually perform in urban areas still depends on real-world performance. After all, plenty of automakers claim "map-free" capability now, but whether it can truly make veteran-driver-level judgments—you'll only know after driving it.
In terms of exterior design, the designers really took it easy (manual doge), as it's basically a twin of the pure electric version. The 4,945mm slender body with a fastback profile and hidden door handles does feel quite futuristic.
The newly added Aurora Purple paint will definitely win over a wave of female fans, but that active front grille... an extended-range car still pulling this trick? I suggest the manufacturer next time also make the fuel port an electrically hidden design, so as not to ruin the overall aesthetics.
Here's the key point! The curb weight of this car has shot up to 2,285 kilograms, a full 310 kilograms heavier than the entry-level pure electric version. What does that mean? It's like carrying four 100-kilogram strongmen extra!
Although the front double-wishbone + rear five-link suspension can hold things together, energy consumption performance is probably questionable. Fortunately, the 1.5T range extender has 115kW of power support, plus Gotion High-Tech's 40-degree large battery, allowing a pure electric range of 255 kilometers.
For charging, it supports 110kW fast charging, replenishing 60% in 17.5 minutes—this figure is genuinely competitive among extended-range vehicles.
Performance enthusiasts, look here! The Snow Leopard four-wheel-drive system + official 0-100km/h time of 4.6 seconds is 0.3 seconds faster than the pure electric top trim.
But Xiao Ba has to throw some cold water—in real testing, battery level has a considerable impact on acceleration. I suggest prospective owners, when test driving, remember to drain the battery below 30% and then floor it to see if there's any power degradation.
In terms of space, the 3,000mm wheelbase is absolutely sufficient, and you can easily cross your legs in the back seat. But the fastback design sacrifices some headroom, so those taller than 185cm should consider bringing a cushion (just kidding).
A pleasant surprise is the retained two-position adjustable electric rear spoiler—although it has no aerodynamic significance for an extended-range car, the show-off effect is off the charts!
Speaking of competitors, the Changan Qiyuan A07 and Leapmotor C01 indeed offer better value. But the Exeed Sterra ES extended-range version is clearly a notch higher in configuration, especially the smart driving system and chassis materials.
The current pure electric version's dismal monthly sales of only 127 units really makes one sweat. The manufacturer is betting on the extended-range market this time, and the key will be the pricing strategy. Xiao Ba's blind guess is a starting price of 229,900 yuan—if it can dip below 200,000, it will absolutely go crazy!
Finally, a practical suggestion: if you're a northern user or have long-distance needs, the extended-range version is indeed more reliable than pure electric. But if you mainly commute in the city, the entry-level pure electric model is more cost-effective.
As for the smart driving system, don't take it too seriously at this stage—just treat it as buying a "potential stock." Oh, and remember to option the rear privacy glass, otherwise with this big fastback design, everything you do in the back seat will be seen clearly!
