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Exploring the Great Wall ORA: A Rising Star in Electric Vehicles
Two years ago at the Noosa Electric Vehicle Expo, we were first introduced to the Great Wall ORA, known as the ORA Cat in its home country of China. For those interested in similar content, you may find more articles of interest from CleanTechnica here and here.
A Changing Landscape for Affordable EVs in Australia
The enthusiasm surrounding this vehicle was palpable back then; it claimed the title of Australia’s most affordable electric car at a price point of AU$46,000 (approximately US$29,000). Today, its price has dropped dramatically to approximately AU$36,000 (around US$22,500) and even lower in certain regions. What a transformation! Presently there are three electric vehicles being sold at prices comparable to a Toyota Corolla hybrid - namely the GWM ORA itself, along with MG4 models starting from the low $30k range and BYD Dolphin options just above $30k. Are we witnessing price parity at last?
The Great Wall lineup features various “Cats,” including Good Cat, Black Cat, White Cat, Funky Cat and iQ — although only one variant is available here in Australia. Since hitting our shores about 800 units have been sold locally while global sales have approached several hundred thousand vehicles. Design-wise it has been described as embodying a nostalgic flair by Emanuel Derta who previously worked with Porsche. The production takes place across China and Thailand; given that Thailand caters to right-hand drive markets—it’s likely our ORAs come from there as well.
A Community Rallies Behind Their Cats
A recent gathering organized by Ant Day showcased just how beloved these vehicles are within their owner community here in Perth’s Swan Valley—a picturesque locale bursting with wineries and cultural attractions! Sharing his photographic captures from this meetup on Facebook underscored the growing popularity of Great Wall Motor’s Funky Cat model.
Among attendees was Ruby—the dog—who seemed unfazed by her feline companions during this gathering dubbed “clowder.” This amusing terminology comes from Middle English ‘clotter,’ meaning ‘to huddle together,’ which seems fitting considering how many cars congregated.
Sharing Experiences and Insights on Ownership
The event provided an excellent platform for sharing knowledge about these unique vehicles where folks discussed some reports regarding ‘glitches’ experienced with Android Auto alongside complaints about turn signal responsiveness—as well as offering insights into one-pedal driving functionality needing reactivation each time they start their cars.
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“We also had discussions around charging strategies where I brought several types of connectors,” Ant shared proudly while counting 14 different cats representing all variants: Standard Range, Extended Range & GT during an impressive outing highlighting upbeat sales momentum within WA recently boasting competitive pricing shifting between AU$30K & AU$36K post-rebates!
The Active Electric Vehicle Community in Western Australia
An active participant himself – serving as chairperson for AEVA’s WA chapter—the community welcomes everyone interested irrespective if they own EVs or not! “Our group aids members exploring every facet regarding electric transport solutions whether bicycles scooters trucks boats aircraft—our team is ready!” he assured me while exhibiting his remarkable fleet featuring Tesla Model 3 Hyundai Kona Nissan Leaf along various corrections spanning over 12 years driving experience!
An Expanding Market Presence Beyond Cars Alone
Additionally great wall motor showcases a diverse portfolio incorporating Haval Tank series promoting PHEVs along HEVs targeted towards mass market adoption drive strong traction across Australian market evidenced where Haval SUVs alone generated significant shares equating towards nearly 63% GWM-Australia overall sales achieved throughout last year setting new records notably outdoing competitors such BYD Chery Suzuki BMW respectively delivering upon challenging industry growth expectations moving forward!
A Look into Future Prospects
I remain optimistic about opportunities ahead fueled through advancements supporting greener alternatives encompassing energy efficiency combined ongoing innovations among traditional manufacturers shifting innovate designs upscale features enhancing consumer experiences elevating standards remaining value driven whilst giving emphasis supporting sustainable initiatives aligns broader societal objectives effectively serving mission successfully navigating evolving landscapes taking shape globally all providing endless possibilities encouraging collaboration seeking ways aim largest rewards beyond monetary benefits !
The post Wrangling Innovation: The ORA Meetup in Western Australia – CleanTechnica first appeared on Tech News.
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Author : Tech-News Team
Publish date : 2025-02-05 03:03:15
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