The steady influx of Chinese automotive brands into Europe persists with the impending arrival of the Seres 3 in the United Kingdom this spring. Marketed by IA Electric Vehicles, this crossover is poised to make waves with a starting price of £29,995, positioning it competitively against its Chinese counterpart, the £30,195 BYD Dolphin, and the £30,495 MG ZS. Notably, it also presents a cost-effective alternative to several electric vehicles from European manufacturers.
Although IA Electric Vehicles has provided scant details about the Seres 3, they have confirmed that the base Active trim will offer a comprehensive array of features. This includes a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and keyless ignition. Inside, buyers can expect amenities such as air conditioning, "leather-style" seats, and a sizable 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Moreover, the crossover is hinted to boast LED lighting units and ride on 18-inch alloy wheels.
For those willing to step up to the £31,995 Seres 3 Spirit variant, additional luxuries await. Highlights of this trim include heated front seats, a wireless smartphone charger, and a panoramic sunroof. Furthermore, buyers will appreciate the convenience of a passive entry system, power folding mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, and an upgraded audio system featuring six speakers.
In terms of safety, the base model of the Seres 3 is equipped with essential features such as six airbags, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. However, for more advanced driver assistance technologies like cruise control and a lane departure warning system, buyers will need to opt for the Spirit trim, which may disappoint some potential customers.
Powering the Seres 3 is a 54 kWh lithium-ion battery coupled with a motor producing 161 horsepower and 195 Nm of torque. This configuration enables the crossover to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 km/h. Impressively, the Seres 3 is projected to offer a combined WLTP range of 330 km, with a city range extending up to 507 km. Furthermore, the battery's quick-charging capability allows for a rapid charge from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes, enhancing convenience for owners on the move.
With its competitive pricing, well-equipped trims, and respectable performance figures, the Seres 3 represents a compelling option in Europe's evolving electric vehicle landscape, further solidifying the presence of Chinese automakers in the region.