Chevrolet and Renault, which currently lack electric vehicle lineups, plan to launch new electric SUVs in the domestic market next year. Given the limitations of domestic production sales, they aim to import competitive electric vehicles to expand consumer choices.
GM is preparing to launch the Chevrolet Equinox EV in the domestic market, targeting sales next year. The Chevrolet Equinox EV has already received certification from the Ministry of Environment for new vehicle introduction.
The Equinox EV, equipped with an 84.8 kWh Ultium battery, boasts a maximum driving range of 483 km (approximately 300 miles) on a single charge based on domestic standards at normal temperatures. Developed on GM's BEV3 platform, the Equinox EV falls into the mid-size SUV category.
The Equinox EV features a single motor that delivers a maximum output of 204 horsepower. It offers specialized electric vehicle features such as 150 kW fast charging, one-pedal driving, a heat pump, and a thermal management system.
Chevrolet has set the local sale price of the Equinox EV, produced at its North American plants, at $34,995, which is approximately 46.9 million won. If launched at a similar price in the domestic market, it is expected to be competitively priced against other electric SUVs in the same category.
Meanwhile, Renault Korea has confirmed plans to import and sell the electric SUV, the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric, which will be a key model for the brand next year. The Scenic E-Tech launched in Europe earlier this year and uses Renault's AmpR Medium electric vehicle platform.
The Scenic E-Tech was also named the 2024 European Car of the Year and recognized for its marketability. It features an 87 kWh battery supplied by LG Energy Solution and can achieve a maximum driving range of 625 km (approximately 388 miles) on a single charge based on the European WLTP standard. The certified driving range in the domestic market is expected to be shorter. It delivers a maximum output of 220 horsepower.
The body dimensions of the Renault Scenic E-Tech are 4,470 mm (175.5 inches) in length, 1,864 mm (73.4 inches) in width, and 1,571 mm (61.8 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,785 mm (109.6 inches), classifying it as a compact SUV. The exterior features the brand's logo and Renault's new signature headlamp pattern, enhancing its brand image.
The local price of the Scenic E-Tech in France starts at €39,900, which is approximately 58.9 million won. This pricing targets the premium segment of the electric vehicle market rather than the entry-level segment.