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Chinese Electric Car in Argentina Features Retro Design, European Flair
๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ท Argentina /Technology

Chinese Electric Car in Argentina Features Retro Design, European Flair

From La Naciรณn · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • The GWM ORA 03, an electric hatchback imported by Grupo Antelo, offers a retro design inspired by the Volkswagen Beetle.
  • Priced at $31,000 in Argentina, it aims to be an urban city car with technology and safety features.
  • The car features a 169 HP electric motor and retains some physical buttons inside, differentiating it from other minimalist EVs.

The GWM ORA 03 electric hatchback has arrived in Argentina, aiming to stand out in a market increasingly populated by Chinese automotive brands. Imported by Grupo Antelo, this vehicle distinguishes itself not through price or equipment alone, but with a distinctive retro design that evokes the classic Volkswagen Beetle.

With a price tag of $31,000, the ORA 03 is positioned as an urban electric city car. Its design, developed under the direction of Romanian designer Emanoel Derta (formerly of Porsche), features rounded headlights and curved body lines, creating a unique aesthetic that draws attention. The overall look is described as more globally appealing and reminiscent of European city cars rather than the aggressive, futuristic designs often associated with Asian electric vehicles.

Measuring 4.23 meters long and 1.82 meters wide, with a 2.65-meter wheelbase, the ORA 03 is compact and agile, suited for city driving. It boasts a 360-degree camera, sensors, and a suite of driver assistance features for easy navigation in tight spaces and urban traffic. The electric powertrain delivers 169 HP and 250 Nm of torque, providing brisk acceleration and a sense of agility despite its 1540 kg weight.

Inside, the ORA 03 offers a user-friendly experience. Unlike many modern EVs that eliminate physical controls, it retains a set of buttons below the air vents for quick access to common functions, reducing reliance on the central multimedia screen. The interior materials are described as acceptable, and it features a 10.25-inch central display. The car also incorporates an automatic start/stop system, where the vehicle is ready to drive once a gear is selected and powers down automatically when parked and the driver exits.

A primera vista, sus lรญneas en el frente remiten a una inspiraciรณn en el Volkswagen Beetle.

โ€” La NaciรณnDetailing the design inspiration for the car's front.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Naciรณn in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.