Chinese electric vehicle brand Skywell has unveiled its upcoming large all-electric van at the Paris Motor Show. Codenamed the ‘233’, the new van will be available in a range of two wheelbases and two roof heights.
Founded in 2000 as ‘Nanjing Golden Dragon’, Skywell quickly established itself as one of China’s leading electric bus manufacturers and, in 2011, became part of the Skyworth Group which is one of the world’s largest consumer electronics companies with annual turnover of £21bn.
Skywell’s unique mix of heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing and digital technology heritage is evident in the van’s strong build quality and advanced tech features. The 233 is Skywell’s first commercial vehicle to make it global debut in Europe, signalling the importance of this market to the company’s future plans.
The 233 will initially be available in 2 body lengths (5,490mm and 5,990mm) and 2 roof heights (2,200mm and 2,700mm) corresponding to a load volume range of approximately 9.5 to 13 cubic metres.
There will be an option of either a 3.5t or 4.25t gross vehicle mass (GVM); the latter offering a payload of up to 1,755kg.
Customers will also have the choice of either an 88kWh or 105kWh LFP (Lithium-Iron-Phosphate) battery sourced from CATL – a global leader in heavy-duty EV batteries – which is mated to a 150kW/370Nm Permanent Magnet Synchronous electric motor.
Aesthetically, the 233 is differentiated through its bold and captivating style which consists of the distinctive bumper and integrated grille design, sleek contours and curved front LED lightbars.
The spacious and ergonomic cockpit provides a comfortable and productive workspace, which – like the exterior – is defined by its contemporary design and furnished with a generous level of equipment including a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, 15.6” touchscreen display, wireless phone charging, wireless smartphone connectivity and keyless entry and start.
Safety is an area where the 233 also excels; an extensive ADAS package – which includes Intelligent Cruise Assist (ICA), Autonomous Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Intelligent Speed Assist (ISA) – is available to reduce the risk of collisions and increase driver comfort.
The 233 is expected to make its UK debut at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC Arena in April, where the production model name and pricing will be announced.
