Enviro Automotive has introduced South Africa’s cheapest battery electric car, the Dayun Yuehu S5 mini SUV. Enviro Automotive is an importer and distributer of BEVs in SA.

Dayun Yuehu S5

It is targeting urban and environmentally conscious individuals, with a starting price of R399 900 for the standard model, and R449 900 for the VIP model.

In a media release, the company says the Dayun Yuehu S5 “aims to redefine the local compact SUV family car market with functionality, style and efficiency.” It will be available in five colours: Ivory White, Pale Green, MistyRose Pink, Teal and Dark Red.

Gideon Wolvaardt, Managing Director of Enviro Automotive says: “We are thrilled to introduce the Dayun Yuehu S5 to our EV product line-up, as it appeals to a broader group of customers seeking affordable electric vehicle options. This impressive urban commuter has been extensively tested in various markets globally, proving highly reliable. It reduces your environmental footprint while saving you money in the long run.”

The five-door mini SUV has two models on the lineup, standard and VIP and according to the company, both are powered by a 35kW synchronous permanent magnet AC electric motor known for high efficiency and low maintenance, which delivers 105Nm of torque.

It has a 31.7kWh battery with a 330km claimed range suited for daily commutes, and reaches a top speed of 100km/h. It has a claimed consumption of 10.7kWh per 100km. It supports both AC and DC charging, and on a standard 220V charger, will recharge in about four hours, whereas using a DC fast charger, it will go from 20-80% in under an hour.

Dayun Yuehu models

Dayun Yuehu S5 Standard: It features automatic headlights, a rearview camera with Reverse Assistance (RA), a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), a Keyless Start System, central locking, an ISOFIX child seat anchor point in the rear and a Low-speed Driving Warning System for pedestrian safety.

Dayun Yuehu S5 VIP: It features four ultrasonic radars in the front and rear. It also features LED Daytime Running Lights, Turn Assist Lights, and Front Fog Lamps for enhanced convenience and safety.

The Dayun Yuehu S5 has a sporty modern design and its compact profile measures 3 695 mm (L); 1 685 mm (W); and 1 598 mm (H), with a 2 410 mm wheelbase.

“At just 3.65 meters long, the Dayun Yuehu S5 is perfect for daily urban commutes, navigating congested city streets, and fitting into tight parking spots. It offers responsive handling, superior performance, ample space, family comfort, and peace of mind with its comprehensive safety features,” says Wolvaardt.

Design: The front has a closed off grille, LED headlights and taillights for high visibility at night, or severe weather conditions. It has a black rear window that gives it a contrasting look with its body colour, and features a high-mounted brake light.

Safety: The Dayun Yuehu S5 features a high-strength steel cage body, front and rear MacPherson independent suspension, and dual disc brakes. It also features driver and passenger airbags, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control (TCS), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Slope Descent Control (SDC), and Automatic Cruise Control (ACC).

Interiors: The company says there is amply space for driver and passengers; has “high-quality leather”; and features an adjustable multi-function steering wheel, designed with a flat bottom.

It has a 7-inch LCD infotainment system; 8-inch central control screen with Dayun’s Intelligent Car System offering driver-assistance features including functions for vehicle monitoring, Bluetooth, a hands-free system, radio, the selection of various media as well as climate control and specific vehicle settings. Content from the Internet can also be displayed using its WiFi hotspot. It also features USB and Type-C multimedia ports.

Other features: It has electronic power steering (EPS), an air-conditioner (A/C) with climate control, electrically adjustable front seats, and electric windows (E/W). The vehicle is operated via an Electronic Rotary Switch (ERS) on the centre console and the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) is situated on the centre console.

SmartLink App: The Dayun Yuehu S5 VIP boasts a SmartLink app, which remotely controls car locking and unlocking, the windows, and the air-conditioner and enables it to start without entry. The SmartLink app also boasts an Electronic Fence, which, when the vehicle travels outside the set area, will automatically raise an alarm to trace the car.

The Dayun Yuehu S5 comes with a 3-year/60 000 km warranty and service plan, which also includes roadside assistance. The battery warranty is 5-year/120 000 km. Service intervals are set for every 12 months or 20 000 km.