DEEPAL S05 Receives ADR Approval for Australian Launch

The S05 will be available in multiple configurations.

Pure EV (Rear-Wheel Drive)

The entry-level electric version features a single 175kW/320Nm rear motor paired with a 68.8kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Range is estimated at over 470km under WLTP testing. The 0-100km/h sprint takes under 7.5 seconds. DC fast charging peaks at 168kW, allowing a 30-80% charge in just 15 minutes. AC charging is available at 7kW.

Pure EV (All-Wheel Drive)

The performance variant adds a second motor for dual-motor all-wheel drive. Combined output reaches 295kW, with the same 68.8kWh battery. Range drops slightly to over 430km (WLTP) due to the extra motor. Acceleration improves dramatically, with 0-100km/h taking under 5.5 seconds. DC charging remains at 168kW, while AC charging increases to 11kW.

The S05 features a 15.4-inch touchscreen in the center of the dashboard. There is no traditional instrument cluster. Instead, an augmented-reality head-up display shows speed and key metrics ahead of the driver.

The interior is covered in soft, leather-like materials. Build quality feels solid and more expensive than the expected price suggests. Front seats offer power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The steering column has a good range of adjustment. The gear shifter is a stalk behind the steering wheel.

Frameless door windows add a premium touch. A panoramic glass roof is standard. Wireless phone charging and dual-zone climate control are included.

Storage is excellent. There is a large space between the front passengers where USB ports sit. The area under the center armrest is cavernous. Door pockets are well-sized. However, there is no glovebox.

Rear passengers get generous space. Knee room is ample for taller passengers. Head room is sufficient for six-footers (183cm or more). The floor is flat, making the middle seat more comfortable. Under-thigh support is adequate but not excellent due to the battery placement.

Rear amenities include air vents, two USB ports, and a fold-down armrest with two cupholders. Oddly, there are no seatback map pockets.

Boot space is 464L. The EV also offers 159L of storage under the bonnet (frunk). These figures are respectable but trail class leaders like the RAV4 (542L). The power-operated tailgate reveals a cargo area with lights and a 12-volt socket. A tyre repair kit is included rather than a spare wheel.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are expected on Australian models but not yet confirmed.

Pricing has not been confirmed for Australia. However, Chinese market positioning provides an indication of potential prices. The S05 is 29% cheaper than the S07 in equivalent specifications in China. If this translates to Australia, the RWD electric version could start around $40,000-$45,000 before on-road costs.

This would make it one of the most affordable mid-size electric SUVs in Australia:

• Leapmotor C10: $45,888
• Geely EX5: $43,490
• BYD Atto 3 Premium: $44,990
• Deepal S07: $53,900

Key competitors include the Leapmotor C10, Geely EX5, and BYD Atto 3. The S05 sits between the smaller Atto 3 and larger S07 in the DEEPAL lineup.

The S05 adds more choice to the mid-size electric SUV segment. At the expected price point, it could offer strong value for money. The 470km+ WLTP range for the RWD version is competitive with the Tesla Model Y (466-551km) and Kia EV5 (400-555km).

The fast 168kW DC charging is notably quicker than the larger S07's 92kW capability. This means shorter charging stops on long trips.

At 4620mm long with a 2880mm wheelbase, the S05 offers similar interior space to a RAV4 or CX-5. However, DEEPAL faces challenges. The brand is virtually unknown to Australian buyers. The S05's conservative styling doesn't help it stand out in a crowded market. Building a strong dealer network and establishing brand trust will be critical.