This Chinese EV Shows Why Western Brands Are In Trouble...

Robert checks out the new Ora Funky Cat, from Chinese car maker, Great Wall Motor. With an impressively premium interior, cheerful looks, lots of standard equipment and a very reasonable price, is this compact EV everything we've been asking for - and not getting - from Western car brands?
00:00 Getting Funky in Solihull!
00:57 Speedy driving impressions
1:43 A speedy Chinese history lesson
3:36 Exterior walkaround
5:32 A very charming interior!
6:46 Specs and versions
8:03 Always watching...
9:34 Bobby loves a button
10:57 Back seat Bob test
12:14 We're sorry about this bit...
13:09 European brands: take note!
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#Ora #FunkyCat #OraFunkyCat #EV #ID3 #VWID3 #Orafunkycat #funkycat #Electriccar

[@felixokeefe]

Bring back the buttons indeed. Touch screens are fine for non essential entertainment functions but you can't beat buttons for intuitive frequent tasks.

[@rendhark111]

Why do you don’t use voicecontrol?

[@felixokeefe]

@@rendhark111 because buttons are easier and faster.

[@chow-chihuang4903]

And physical controls work the first time, unlike voice or touch controls, and in much less time.

[@tallll70]

it's much cheaper if most can be operated from tablet, instead running wires cutting holes developing or purchasing switches, would wildly guess it's not about style at all

[@tallll70]

@@hayloft3834 i'm not complimenting it

[@davocc2405]

Robert's BANG ON CORRECT about having buttons - actual buttons need to make a comeback. I remember the US Navy surveyed bridge personnel about their new systems which were all touch screen and they universally wanted proper buttons back - tactility and assurance (especially in high stress situations) is essential. You don't want to be dicking around with sub-menus which DEMAND you look at the screen and take your eye off actual driving.

[@petersz98]

Voice recognition makes buttons and menus obsolete!

[@davocc2405]

@@petersz98 none that I've ever used... Voice recognition is a technology which instantly performs advanced molecular and atomic transformation in milliseconds flat because as soon as I use it I instantly turn into Jeremy Clarkson sitting in a 2004 S-class yelling at the voice command system trying to stop it dialling 999 for intangible reason

[@rexjamo]

Robert is clueless. On his Tesla you can drag the demister to the bottom tray and have it ready to push without any need to go into a menu.

[@davocc2405]

@@rexjamo but you still need to take your eyes off the road and micro-locate your finger to align with something that isn't there in physical reality. You have to visually locate and touch a specific point on a sheet of glass and forming muscle memory to do this is extremely difficult especially for casual or even frequent use. A physical object such as a button, dial or a slider is VASTLY more tactile and practical; this is why the Elgato Streamdeck devices sell quite so well and are essential for editors, etc. Screen only apps such as Roccat Powergrid are terribly rare or discontinued as despite their utility they suffer this basic tactility issue. Even variable interface buttons (where their use and meaning cycle with function grouping) are superior to touch screen. In combat situations this is even more pronounced, I can see a time where touchscreen interfaces may be limited by legislation if they are shown to have cause sufficient numbers of accidents (this is a difficult study to get funding for apparently).

[@michaeltruscott7596]

@@rexjamo it shows how unintuitive a screen is as I believe he's had a Tesla for ages and he still hasn't worked out how to do it...

[@Rrrren]

I bought a model 3 because of lack of options here in Canada. I would totally buy one of those Chinese EVs if they were available. Why are we nowadays so afraid of competitions?

[@cadhlaohanlon4443]

Because the competitors came stronger than ever and they actually have a chance to over rule the game.

[@agihiruda]

Blame the greedy US imperialists

[@afrocraft1]

This is different. Software-driven cars increase the risk of manufacturer privacy violations. But if you don't mind Xi tracking your every move, enjoy!

[@MrGanbat84]

Why we afraid? Is is the most modest and calm country in the world. Never invade outside countries. But all europeans and japanese did a lot of massacres.

[@b534hng]

Not afraid of competition when CCP force intellectual transfer. Buy their ev is indirectly supporting a dictatorship.

[@Hill_Walker]

I do love Robert's car reviews. He covers cars how normal people want, not how car journalist think we want!

[@BillClinton228]

Yea, another EV that looks like it was designed by a 7 year old... great.

[@brookrobertson7456]

EV full stop lol

[@jonnyw2701]

@@BillClinton228 Yeah... really makes you optimistic about the future doesn't it. We should probably enjoy driving real cars while we still can.

[@jazzcardashcam]

Refreshing I have to say. 99% of other car reviewers will rank a car down as poor standard because a plastic felt a bit tougher than a $300,000 BMW.

[@zerofox3d]

Belly laughed at the Swedish 🤣 Shame it wasn’t £20k, over £30k for a small call is nuts.

[@CATinBOOTS81]

A few information about this car, known in China as the Ora "Good Cat": price in China ranges from 103.900 RNB (14.000€) to 143.900 RNB (19.500€). There are 2 battery pack produced: 48 KWh (LFP), the one shown in the video, with around 300KM WLTP range, and a 59 KWh (NMC), which I assume it would have a WLTP range of around 400 KM. There's also a sportier version, the GT, with added power (127 KW instead of the 107 KW of the base model) - that version uses a special third battery pack, of 63 KWh (NMC). My opinion: the car is great, but why ruinining its chance in Europe with such a price? Come on Great Wall, give us the affordable car that European Carmakers don't want to!

[@karlk7070]

Guess it's cuz of tariffs... At least Macron made it clear to protect domestic manufacturers. Edit: I am not blaming anyone guys, it is fair to add tariffs to protect local brands at least to me. I said Macron because I only know that Macron talked about it, am not so sure about UK that's why I guessed about it. My apology in advance if it is not the case at all.

[@SeanBZA]

Yes by me that is a 60k pound vehicle, because of duties and taxes to protect the (non existing) local EV manufacturers. Funny thing is that government does not pay those taxes when they buy vehicles.

[@jojacobs4355]

Those Chinese prices include a government stipend which does not affect the EU price. Aaand you have import duties of course.

[@DoodleDoo]

Paying 36k for a 14k car, no thanks, I will pass.

[@CATinBOOTS81]

@@karlk7070 tariff on importing car in EU is 10%, don't know about the UK but I'm guessing it isn't that far.

[@Neil070]

This and the MG are changing my mind about Chinese cars. And this is coming from a man who used to work alongside MGRover guys in the MGF plant at Longbridge!

[@Rex-ww4cw]

There's more. NEO and Xpeng. The most impressive and dangerous competitors is BYD. They made good EV

[@jzvr5842]

This and MG are low end Chinese cars, BYD, Xpeng, Nio, Li, Hongqi etc. etc. are much better.

[@kriskalpa6346]

This is an awesome car, and FYI a lot of the people working on it are European, British as well as Chinese. It is a truly global company although most people haven't heard of it yet. The car is super nice in reality. Some of the colours you can get are not available in the UK but it looks great in gold. Beautiful car. And it has the BMW voice assistant.

[@DumHed]

I saw one of these in my rear view mirror in Thailand and thought it was some weird Porsche model! It took a bit of chasing through traffic to catch the brand name, and over there the model is called Good Cat.

[@moony2703]

Hmm I thought Funky Cat and Good Cat were two different models from the same brand rather than a renamed version, but I could be wrong I have enough headaches just trying to keep up with BYD’s having two names for things. Edit: Given the videos I saw about the Ora are apparently from a year ago and I think they were pre-release videos, yeah I could see it being a renaming thing. The problem with news gone global you get to hear about all the different names!!

[@jontallon73]

The stylist was previously at Porsche

[@stormjuice]

@@moony2703 It's the same car.... just call it funky good cat from now on :)

[@stormjuice]

@@jontallon73 Yeah, he also designed the Lightning Cat and Punk Cat. He left GWM a year ago and is now lead designer elsewhere.

[@fullychargedshow]

It is the Good Cat and it has been renamed for the European market and it's made by GWM, Great Wall Motors not BYD

[@futo]

Europe is about to get nearly a dozen different Chinese EV brands (I know some haven't shown up yet, but already confirmed). Here in Canada, don't know if any are going to show up, because Canada will like to follow the USA, and try to stall any Chinese EV brands from showing up

[@simoncroft9792]

Been saying for years that China is going to clean up in the EV market. Their gov have been subsidising every manufacturer ( sewing machines, cars,bicycles, motorbikes etc ) to go into the EV market. Much like it was a century ago for ICE in europe and US - except no gov money back then AFAIK!

[@jeffpollard7304]

Well then, N. American manufacture’s, better get the lead out!! We need in the west, to combat Asian competition, is a cheap, long range, RELIABLE and easy charging; forget fancy expensive ‘doodads’, otherwise, kiss Detroit goodbye for good! Think Chinese !!!!

[@Kokolo-ze2cp]

As they should, you guys made a wise decision

[@futo]

@@simoncroft9792 Japan once flooded the American market in the 80s and 90s. I think every so often someone will leapfrog somebody else in cycles

[@sunset3052]

Agree, unfortunately, quite sad... It's a cute EV car indeed!

[@luodaji]

I'm a Funky Cat owner myself in China and I only paid 15k (with the government scheme) for the top model (electric seat adjust, heated seat, remote climate control etc.) with a 400km range and I am slightly disappointed by its price tag in the UK.

[@hiranga]

What an absolute source of pride, that the smaller the car you test, the more your viewers tune in! One for humanity (and your channel 💪🏾❤️)

[@seanplace8192]

That's a really nice looking interior. Too many manufacturers these days are afraid of colorful interiors. Most cars you can buy now just have two "colors": black, and black with a few white parts.

[@sahhull]

My Smart has a bright orange interior

[@willieverusethis]

Yes! I'd pay extra just for the interior.

[@grandwonder5858]

I like everything about the car, interior and exterior, especially the fact that it is an electric car! No more paying for expensive gas for me! Imagine the money you would save not having to pay for gas! If the US government allows it to come to America I would buy it in a heartbeat! That’s the thing about Chinese goods - you always get more bang for your buck than American goods!

[@hobojon44]

a mini that wants to be a 911

[@flebnard]

Op never seen vintage 50s cars with colors colors colors everywhere inside.

[@jimmiecox3183]

We have this in Thailand ORA GOOD CAT! 48kWh $27,000USD. and a 59 kWh battery option for plus $2,700USD, which I assume it would have a WLTP range of around 400 KM. To me looks like Porche and Mini had a baby! HAHA!

[@wttwtg4165]

I am an avid watcher of ICE shows (Savagegeese, Demuro, Cammisa, Leno, Harris), and this segment of EV I find the most intriguing. I do hope the American market EV producers would focus more on this segment. Great review.

[@TheRelaxingRide]

as someone who rents and lives in a UK houseshare, i often wonder where we'd all plug in our electric cars when currently we have zero infrastructure beyond running out a long extension lead onto the street and then down it a few yards depending on where we managed to park that day. meanwhile electric scooters are government controlled and expensive compared to private ownership (of an electic scooter) but are as easy to bring into the house as a bicycle.

[@gediminassumskas]

Really? Ora price in UK £31,995 while Chevrolet Bolt in US $25,600.

[@drewcipher896]

I wish we were getting more sensibly sized EVs like this with decent range and PHYSICAL BUTTONS. If it's available in my region in a few years I'll definitely consider it.

[@jasoncrandall]

Energy density. ICE cars are what they are because of energy density. Batteries cannot compete. It’s just physics.

[@rasmussrensen6119]

@@jasoncrandall They don't have to compete. People want EV's. They are just better cars. Range is not everything.

[@jasoncrandall]

@@rasmussrensen6119 EVs are 2% of the car market. I’m a people and I have no interest in EVs. They still roll on 4 wheels and you have to turn a steering wheel. This video is proof cars have not changed in decades.

[@BillClinton228]

I wish EV's didnt look terrible... every commercialy produced EV i've seen looks average at best, including Tesla.

[@jasoncrandall]

@@BillClinton228 I agree but I think they market towards low T nerds. I think it’s on purpose.

[@shawnedwards5369]

I do like the Mini feel to it. I have a '22 Mini SE and there are a lot of similarities here. One of the things I do like is that they (and Mini) stuck with actual physical buttons / switches for things that you use frequently. Once you memorize your cockpit, you don't even have to look anymore.

[@xiaoshuoyao3565]

Fun fact, the electric MINIs are co-developed by BMW and Changcheng.

[@shawnedwards5369]

@@xiaoshuoyao3565 From what I've heard, there _should_ be some improvements in the software as part of that. I'm looking forward to see what they come up with.

[@hksaxophone5914]

@@xiaoshuoyao3565 plus the upcoming mini bev model, supposed to be launched next yr, will share the mechanics with this funky cat

[@grahamrouse4665]

The front looks more like a Porsche, not so sure of the rear. Nice compact design though.

[@cwlee2208]

@@grahamrouse4665 it was designed by Emanuel Derta who designed for Porsche

[@rickbullock4331]

First time I’ve heard of an ORA car and definitely the first time I’ve heard of a FUNKY CAT model. It looks pretty decent to me and has good warranty. I don’t think you mentioned how many motors or what the power is but I would guess only one powering this car. 180 miles on a charge would more than satisfactory to most folk. Price may be a bit high considering it’s not a large car. It’ll be interesting to see how well it’s received.👍👍🇨🇦

[@Patrick-bu5vy]

Thumbs up for the Kryten cameo alone....tremendous! Car is pretty great too - deserves to be a hit.

[@stormjuice]

Yes! More Kryten please!

[@MasterofpuppetsBS]

Well I dont like chinese copies of the original VW Käfer 🇩🇪

[@jimmyhackers8980]

@@MasterofpuppetsBS and im sure most jewish people dont like VW.

[@devanman7920]

It's a shame it's just isnt a little cheaper tbh.

[@viktorianas]

It is a nice package, but... Lets be honest, it should be cheaper than MG4 to make sense, ~26k.

[@xye-NYC]

Looks like it's for people who can afford the Tesla Model 3 but looking for alternatives.

[@xye-NYC]

watch "This Makes Me Not Want to Buy a Honda Ever Again" posted just 7 days ago on KZbin where Scotty tells the story of how the local Honda dealership in the US charged $10K on top of the sticker price of $24k for a new Honda Civic. In the same video, he tells a story of how a plumber he knows who had put down a deposit of $1k for a Ford eTransit BEV van with discussed price of $53k and later gets a letter from Ford informing him that the price has been increased to $88k. This is the new world we live in.

[@AyoHues]

Is that a personalised number plate? 😜

[@Brian-om2hh]

Sales will decide whether you are right, as people tend only to buy the cars they like. This does look a nicer, better designed and slightly less austere package than the MG4, admittedly at a higher price...... People have bought the Honda E, and that costs the best part of £30k, despite being even smaller. Not all buyers will employ the same selection criteria you do......

[@viktorianas]

@@Brian-om2hh yes, people are weird (I am pragmatism purist so I don't understand people), but Honda is a well established, respectable brand at least, yet ORA Funky Cat! is a Chinese start-up more or less, anyway I have to agree with you that it will find its customers.

[@jorgenkarls]

Is it possible to change the charging power when using the 240 volt charger? I can't find that option.

[@randallmacdonald4851]

I have had a Chinese built escooter (like a motorbike) for three years now. The battery is lithium and, after 7000 km of constant summer driving, is still going strong. The bike, itself, however, is slowly but surely disassembling itself as I drive it. The chrome plated crash bars surrounding the bike have rusted in several places (understandable) but in one place, it's broken (and been replaced) three times simply because it's a stress point. Very poor design that you won't discover until after you've driven it for several months. To maintain the bike is almost impossible. Bolts that are different sizes here and there when they should be the same size on the same part; bolts and screws that are inaccessible and not designed to be accessed; to change the headlight lightbulb requires a complete disassembly of the front fork of the bike and the retailer does NOT offer service to change a burned out bulb. It is THIS intense frustration with the manufacturing style of the Chinese that has me worried about the Ora Funky Cat (which I have only seen this video.) Take the car to a dealer and ask them to change one of the lights or replace a seatbelt. Then watch as they do. If they do...

[@xc43t]

As an East European with no knowledge of Nordic languages I can confirm that your Swedish sounded spot on! Also, a very nice and reasonably sized car. The price though...

[@RiderOftheNorth1968]

As a swede i can assure it does not sound like swedish in any shape or form. Not offended thou.

[@garyfrancis6193]

Perfect Swedish

[@ActivityPhoto]

Yep the price is bit high I think. If they could bring to UK and US market at 25K they would sell a ton of these interesting little cars.

[@GeirEivindMork]

@@RiderOftheNorth1968 the accent should be swedish. No idea how swedish accent sounds since I usually don't have to speak english to them, but sounded a bit like a norwegian from the middle of the country. :)

[@RiderOftheNorth1968]

@@GeirEivindMork Exactly! More norwegian than swedish.

[@alandavies1054]

£32k ? As nice as it looks that is silly money.

[@robsmall6466]

The title of this video seems to have been written by a KZbin overzealous comments dweller as well. £10k overpriced in my opinion. Shame it's bigger than a Mini as well

[@lluke18]

I wonder how I’m ever gonna buy a electric car I can only afford used cars around 3-5k got a Audi a3 convertible 2013 for 3.5k 3 years ago and £30 tax 55mpg how can I ever move away ?

[@robsmall6466]

@@lluke18 The prices of these new cars ( EV in particular ) are beyond stupid. Majority of manufacturers are mass volume sellers ( hence the huge factories all over the world ). They can't all chase the same premium buyer. New Megane from Renault is £30k plus. If your average Renault customer has £30k to spend previously then surely they would of been driving a BMW, Merc or Audi. £30k plus was Megane RS money. How many of those did they sell versus lower spec Megane ? The higher value cars are not what kept Renault in business. Hopefully we will have common sense prevail and realistic prices will return and filter down into the used market like they always have

[@ralphclark]

@@lluke18 you will have no choice in a few years when no matter how cheap used ICE vehicles are, you are no longer allowed to drive them anywhere because of expanded, more highly restrictive ULEZ zones.

[@ralphclark]

I agree. We need cars of this type and quality but at literally half the price. For sure, if I have £30k to lay down on a car, for that money I can get a two year old mid range BMW. Not only that but very well equipped with options and not only that but in mint showroom condition too and not only that but from a licensed BMW dealer under the approved used scheme. With a warranty.

[@MrGanbat84]

No matter people make look bad about China as human right bla bla. I really like what China is doing nowadays. Most of people judge without going there themself but just washed by CNN and BBC hehe. So funny. I love this car design and its compact quality. 🥰🥰🥰🇰🇷

[@iks8622]

Definitely agreed that we need a selection of smaller cars and manufacturers should pay attention to this consumer need. Most families use 2 cars and, usually, one of them is mostly used for small trips around the town. A car like that BUT waaaay cheaper would be perfect for my family needs.

[@frankneser6055]

This is the first small car I'd like to be seen in. Incredibly nice interior, too. I just wish for a better charging speed.

[@Foucault2001]

It’s a lot bigger than it looks in pictures/videos as pretty much the same size as a VW ID3 (4235mm long, 1825mm wide and 1603mm tall)

[@brendanarmstrong7802]

The exclamation mark is a reference to Bubsy the Bobcat, a video game/children's cartoon protagonist from the 90s/00s who sported an exclamation point on his shirt. Great Wall Motors has stated that Busby was the "Funky Cat" that inspired them to begin making electric cars, and seeks to pay homage to his legacy with this new line of cars.

[@kindface]

Thanks so much for explaining the logo! It's a lot of guts for a car company these days to put some whimsies into a car that's this seriously well built with price to match.

[@brendanarmstrong7802]

@@kindface I feel obligated to let you know this was a joke. It's almost certainly not inspired by Bubsy the Bobcat. I just saw the similarities and had a little fun.

[@kindface]

@@brendanarmstrong7802 Ho ho ho, you sure got me there! When there are laughs, there's never any damage done. Thanks again!

[@josephkanowitz6875]

ב''ה, surely the name is a Friends reference.

[@Elliott_Wave]

does the sat nav send info back to china?

[@monsieurb90]

"funky cat" describes it perfectly. Not my style but it will find its admirers. By the way: It's not true that you have to go through 4 settings to reach the demister funktion in a Tesla Model 3 - it's only 2 clicks - or you set up the icon at the bottom bar on the screen, then it's only 1 click. ;-)

[@palemale2501]

Not an EV driver yet, but I was concerned about multi menus just to access say a silly but crucial demister button etc - must be an inconvenient distraction at a critical point, and each model having different menu routes to be instantly recalled Even just a few obvious primary buttons like this car seems sensible.

[@enrobsorussell]

Most ICE cars must be `sensible` then...as most of them are simple push-button.

[@Xubuntu47]

I rented a Tesla Model 3, and I hated how even adjusting the windshield wiper speed required menu surfing. Unsafe and annoying. Hardware controls, intuitively placed, are less distracting.

[@Jin88866]

Physical buttons are expensive, software is basically free, that's why they're disappearing.

[@palemale2501]

@@Jin88866 Granted it is cheaper, but I do not believe the cost of say 8 crucial switches or buttons is THAT expensive compared to the convenience or costly risk to driving.

[@Jin88866]

@@palemale2501 I agree but most carmakers don't seem to realize it and try to save as much as they can while charging you thousands of $$$

[@sargfowler9603]

The MG4 appears to beat this by a country mile. You can't charge £32K for that!

[@xye-NYC]

Looks like it's for people who can afford the Tesla Model 3 but looking for alternatives. Tesla makes tons of Model 3s and Ys in China and sell them all over the world - have you checked out their prices? Cheap they are not but they are selling them faster than they can make them. That should give you an idea of how real inequality of wealth is.

[@fanfeck2844]

@@xye-NYC there’s no way I’d have this over a Tesla

[@bobbuilder6669]

@@xye-NYC Wealth - I work in housing, they can't build them quickly enough either from small 2 beds to the large 5 beds - there's more money out there than what people are owning up to - "we are all skint", nope - you ALL are not. - note my emphasis on "ALL"

[@GudieveNing]

Agreed. MG4 way better and doesn't have a creepy face monitoring camera.

[@fanfeck2844]

@@GudieveNing I thought it did have the camera?

[@louanna472]

Great review, it's informative, fun, and energetic, love it!

[@deepbluelau3099]

GWM is a pure local car company starting from an agriculture machine repairing workshop, it's good at making cheap (but not low quality) SUVs, it caught up the trend of electronic vehicle and is converting itself to an international company. Can you imagine it produces 10+ models of SUVs from A0 class with 1.3T engine maybe to almost C class with 3.0T petrol engine? Besides EV it also has the world's most advanced hybrid technology that are already equipped on several models to use electronic drive most of the time, the engine is only used for drive in special conditions to massively reduce the fuel consumption. BTW, the Funcky Cat(Good Cat as called in China) is just a middle to low end EV in China and it's quite cheap even in Chinese's perspective, but it provides acceptable mileage, flexible and accurate operation, good user experience and excellent design from interior to external, yes! I think EV is dominating the world not only because the low carbon reason, but the trend of intelligence and inter-connection, mostly you must accept that Chinese cars will be the most popular choice, as they are advanced in both technical and design, and, affordable price with over expected you can get.

[@johnathankain8033]

I love this car. Its got buckets of charm. Not many EVs have managed that yet!

[@jameslewis2635]

This car sounds like it would be perfect for someone like me who uses their vehicle for work on a daily basis. Unfortunately the upfront price is the biggest barrier to someone like myself who is on low wages seeing as this car comes to nearly three years worth of my income. Now we are getting the actual cars we need on the market, we need to get some help with the inital purchase costs. Whether that comes in some form of low cost/easy entry loan or some other scheme, without some help people like me are stuck driving older (my current car is 20 years old as an example) petrol or diesel cars because that is all they can afford. Yes, I know that you get the money back from the much lower running costs, but when the disparity between the purchase costs and your income is that high you are left with no chance to jump on the bandwagon even when you know full well it is the right thing.

[@xye-NYC]

Watch "This Makes Me Not Want to Buy a Honda Ever Again" posted just 7 days ago on KZbin where Scotty tells the story of how the local Honda dealership in the US charged $10K over a new Honda Civic with sticker price of $24k. In the same video, he tells a story of how a plumber he knows who had put down a deposit of $1k for a Ford eTransit BEV van with discussed price of $53k and later gets a letter from Ford informing him that the price has been increased to $88k. This is the new world we live in.

[@sharonec5419]

Ever here or getting a loan or PCP? Sure most people you see with new cars these days do not actually own them they are on PCP. So unless they pay of what's owed after the 3 or 5 year term they in fact never own the car they are driving. Most will just change to another model and are happy to do that. Uts either that or save save save. Yes not easy in the current economic climate we are living in. Set goals for yourself. You can do it if you really want to do.

[@RAFchurchlawford4469]

@@sharonec5419 You will own nothing and be happy?

[@cerdicw9998]

@@sharonec5419 Even a loan or PCP will cost several hundred per month. Lots of people just don’t have that money.

[@glennoc8585]

Buy a good used Prius or other ev from Japan as a great import low kms.

[@nigelliam153]

Do they have aircon and what does it do for the battery life?

[@denniscerletti2244]

Looks like the special paint too, goes from a blue to a green depending on angle of light, nice. Two- tone interior very nice also. Hope it comes to the US.

[@ksavage681]

The US won't ever let Chinese cars in. They are just too anti-competitive.

[@dporrasxtremeLS3]

The Chinese car manufactures are Really getting it Right!!! All their hard work is Very impressive!

[@brucekennedy5274]

What a great car! Pity the price isn’t a little more “disruptive” as they say.

[@catmandoodoo7903]

It was supposed to be.

[@phuketexplorer]

An Ora Cat, with the same spec and battery as the Funky, costs £17K here in Thailand. The top sports model comes in at around £24K

[@brucekennedy5274]

@@phuketexplorer yep, thats a lot of tax, duty or just mark-up there. hmmm. Funky car, funky price!

[@fanfeck2844]

@@phuketexplorer far too expensive in the U.K.

[@0utcastAussie]

@@fanfeck2844 £18k brand new is my ceiling ie: Never going to happen ! I'll probably end up converting my dirty diesel 8th Gen Civic ! TBH I haven't found as versatile a hatch as my Civic. On Thursdays I chuck my daughters Pushbike in the back and she still can sit unhindered in the seat next to it.

[@pixie99]

Yay...so pleased to hear your comments about moving away from giant tanks to smaller cars. And yes this does look impressive Cheers

[@Wisnu_Wiidodo]

Can anyone tell what's the BGM at 6:44 & 11:50 ?

[@kenibarwick]

:clap: we’ll done production team, what a subtle but excellent change to the episode. More fun, energy and editing was on point! Please keep this style

[@thisguyshandle]

I hated it. All the things you thought were good I think we're bad. Less fun, limited energy, editing missed so many points it was off the point. Reverse clap. Good job team well done. Ever spelt racecar backwards? What makes water wet?

[@alh59uster]

Great information on this car. Too expensive for what one gets. MG and BYD are better value for the investment. However, great car for country lane's and small village/town living.

[@michaelrch]

That's what I thought. If it was £25k or so then it would really be exciting, but at £32k it's at a price where European manufacturers are at more or less.

[@CATinBOOTS81]

I agree. The same car in China ranges from 103.900 RNB (14.000€) to 143.900 RNB (19.500€). Why they give to us in Europe a "European price"? If they sold it in Europe at price not too different from China, it will completely annihilate all competition.

[@markussavolainen]

@@CATinBOOTS81 that is cuz Chinese and European car cultures have completely different expectations when it come to buying a car. In Europe a car is expected to last, while in China it it's( a chinese domestic car will be in way worse shape after just few years, than a European market one, after a decade). So while you probably could get one of those for 15k € + 5k € for shipping or what ever, would you really want one? like for real... would you really want a car that has parts falling off with in a year(FYI that is not even a joke)? if your expectations for a car are at the level of that of a 5k € car you're better of buying said 5k € car than putting 20k € into a Chinese domestic model.

[@michaelrch]

@@CATinBOOTS81 exactly. I guess import taxes and shipping cover some of the difference, but surely not £20k!

[@sergentcolon1]

@@markussavolainen I think you need to actually look at some Chinese made cars before trotting out the usual old Chinese cars are crap nonsense.

[@xchopp]

Niiiiice! What a great concept. Probably won't come to North America any time soon, sadly. p.s., pretty sure that was a Norwegian accent :)

[@incomingincoming1133]

How much front-trunk space is there? How much space in the trunk?

[@cyclonicleo]

Far too expensive for what it is and its size. The price alone is a big factor in some places for getting people off of petrol/diesel and into electric. Such a pity as it would be an ideal city car with enough range for the odd short trip away.

[@Song-TheNiceGuy]

Import duties + shipping did that, this car is being sold for around 170,000rmb (18565 pounds) in China. It really surprised me that they have to sell it at this price in the EU.

[@CRhodesDesign]

Robert you're right we need more smaller electric cars, with Ford killing off the Fiesta its just a sign of more dull bland suvs clogging up our narrow roads. I want more cars like this and the Honda E, I'd love an E but not for that price. China are doing some really amazing stuff with electric cars and pricing them well we just need the big boys to follow suit.

[@jbm0866]

They wont be able to, Chinese companies own north of 80% of the worlds supply of materials needed to make batteries..they will adjust the price to favor their own companies. Enjoy Chinese car ownership in the future...unless you can afford a considerable premium.

[@thomasmargolis6057]

Where is the data and the image from the driver camera going, under whose control? Charging @ public places, other?

[@AndrewKNI]

The interior of the Ora Funky Cat looks much better than the VW ID3, even the ID4. Amazing for the money.

[@John.0z]

Thank you Robert. I am one of those subscribers to Fully Charged that no longer watches shows focussed on yet another SUV. This car kept my attention. I have a small parking space, so this Ora would be difficult to fit. But otherwise it's specifications are just fine - the power is quite a bit above my current and perfectly adequate car. I just hope Ora release something like this in Australia.

[@woody6t1]

And NZ

[@glennoc8585]

Personally I'm concerned that there aren't enough charging facilities in Australia

[@John.0z]

@@glennoc8585 For using one on a holiday, I agree Glenn. But we have had every self-interested oil and ICE car company pouring FUD into the ears of all the politicians and car press ever since the first hybrid hit the streets. So is there any real surprise that relatively few have made the investment yet? At least the NRMA has seen the obvious future rushing straight at their old business model. What really baffles me is that a new, and quite large, service station and market is in the last stage of being built fairly nearby. There are apparently no plans for EV charging. They have a web site already, and not the slightest mention of charging. I cannot see how they will ever pay for all that investment in old technology.

[@John.0z]

@@dynevor6327 Where did that come from? I looked at the parent GW web site, and the importing of the car was not even mentioned.

[@John.0z]

@@dynevor6327 Unfortunately that is most likely to derive a quite wrong number. There are several rather unique things about bringing goods, particularly cars, into Australia - but most of the difference would be "because they can charge more", due to the strange market Australia represents. Morgan got so fed up with the oppressive safety changes demanded that they just stopped selling their cars.

[@shebanadam7569]

Nice car! I have a feeling that this idea of "cheapness" paired with "Chinese" will end soon. I suspect the Chinese are really working hard behind the scenes to improve their quality and reliability, and eventually up their prices. So we still have a window to buy "cheap Chinese" but not for long folks. Just my thought.

[@dr.andersonsghost4315]

@@Channel-gz9hm Oh look, another NSA virtue-signaling bot! The AI behind them are getting amazingly good.

[@markussavolainen]

I'll tell you a little secret: "Cheap Chinese" will always be trashtier... Just Chinese will not, but it ain't gonna be cheap either. In manufacturing cars there are three qualities any given car can have: price, performance and quality. Except in any given price range you can only add to one of those by taking away from another (aka in this car's case if you'd increace quality you'd have to either increase the price or lower the range/power)

[@shebanadam7569]

@@markussavolainen You make an interesting point.

[@xye-NYC]

@@markussavolainen Watch "This Makes Me Not Want to Buy a Honda Ever Again" posted just 7 days ago on KZbin where Scotty tells the story of how the local Honda dealership in the US charged $10K over a new Honda Civic with sticker price of $24k. In the same video, he tells a story of how a plumber he knows who had put down a deposit of $1k for a Ford eTransit BEV van with discussed price of $53k and later gets a letter from Ford informing him that the price has been increased to $88k. Just another perspective on the world we live in.

[@cwlee2208]

I’m sure it will follow the same gradual change in perception as with Japanese and South Korean cars when they first appeared in the West

[@thuggooch1776]

How does this car do in -5 to -20F? It's that cold where I live for about 4 months out of the year.

[@yome1562]

Love the reviews on cars. Love the style. Shame the political rant and regurgitation of the same anti-chinese narrative fed by the western media (which pleases some who doesn't even know China). But apart from that, looks like an informative channel (when talking about cars)

[@nssimpson]

I was interested in this when priced at £25k with the bigger battery. Also it's a year too late.

[@timscott3027]

@@Yesterzine tbf this does look a little nicer than the mg4

[@michaelworrall6804]

Not according to Whatcar test that said this car handled not great with strange quirks and the range is poor .. This won’t sell in big numbers.. with this brand it had to be sub £25k !!!

[@timscott3027]

@@michaelworrall6804 fair enough, I agree the price is too high.

[@paulsmith8405]

Love Robert's car reviews, I cant help but see Kryten driving a car 🤖

[@jonshaw2780]

And there's nothing wrong with that at all!

[@rgolab3174]

Btw, these do come with 48, 59 and 63 kWh batteries but perhaps only 48 is available for the UK market.

[@Renovator26]

Brilliant! One of the most hilariously funny yet serious auto reviews I’ve ever seen. The reviewer is so enthusiastic it’s hard not to like anything about this little EV. This Canadian is cynical about any change coming to the big automakers. They have to be dragged, kicking and screaming, into acknowledging climate change and the folly of greenwashing so-called “eco-friendly” lumbering giants. Customers must take much of the blame too when Canadian and U.S. buyers pony up $100,000+ for trucks used for shopping trips and general urban use. Change is coming slowly, but it may be too late before we all sink, giggling with consumer joy, into an era of scarcity and environmental disaster. Our descendants will cry “What was WRONG with those people? Couldn’t they SEE what was happening? Why didn’t they DO something?”

[@hermesliteratus882]

For a moment, I thought Fully Charged Show had become a political analysis channel. 🤣

[@saml7610]

Yeah... wasn't expecting that and I honestly don't think it was necessary. Why would anyone ever assume a show about electrical vehicles would have anything to do with geopolitical beef? They didn't even need to mention it. Anyone demanding shows like Fully Charged take a political stance? Those people are goobers.

[@1jimjon]

Hard to ignore the elephant in the room. Just like range anxiety & recharging times, won't go away by pretending it doesn't exist.

[@jeremymanson1781]

China's entry into the car market has been described, by experts in the industry, as an existential threat to European and US car makers. So its a very very big deal.

[@Marvhead]

@@saml7610 Yeah, let's pretend that there are no human rights abuses and consume cars.

[@hclau362]

@@Marvhead Does having the police kneel on your neck until you die be considered as "violating your rights"? Just asking.

[@Shicomm]

The looks and size were always good. Same with the Sion. The big issues are the delays and pricehikes.. Sure we can wait but cars in this size should not be over €30.000 ... Tons of people want something in this size and they even might deal with a lack of charging options because the live in apartments but the price REALLY needs to come down...

[@calebracey]

Another commenter has posted that the price in china is 14k euros so there is plenty of scope for the price to come down, hopefully that happens. Personally I want a low spec cheap EV, after airbags and aircon pretty much all the spec upgrades of the last 2 decades leave me thinking "meh"

[@baronvonlimbourgh1716]

Ev's are just smaller. A golf sized car offers the space of a passat. A polo sized car offers the space and usability of a golf. The cabin room and comfort in this car is on par with a car a size up. So it will sell for similar prices as cars a size up

[@Darkest_matter]

@@calebracey not even. I watch wheelsboy who reviews Chinese cars in china, and you can even get a normal saloon shakes car for 10K. Heck, Dacia is European and even they have cars for £16K

[@The-tg5zg]

I think £30k is pretty encouraging actually, a new base model Ford Fiesta is £20k these days (crazy but true) and in a trim comparable with this probably more like £23k maybe more. You will easy recoup the difference over ten years in maintenance and fuel savings, but probably sooner and at least until towards the end of the decade I think EV’s will be at a premium to recoup R&D costs as most brands are still on gen 1 vehicles and will be for a while. Also with the current shortage there’s no reason to lower prices.

[@andymcnish]

@Tech Addict MG4 starts at just under £26k for the 51kW (with LFP battery chem) 210 mile range version . That's £6k cheaper than the Ora for a faster car with a better ride. This car needs to be priced lower to really be an MG4 beater I think, but it's still better value than the European manufacturers. And LFP battery chem is good to see.

[@9ernie9]

No rear wiper? I think they need to add one. Does the screen brightness change to match day/night light levels? I'd be interested if the range was a bit higher - maybe 250 miles. Perhaps they have (or will have) a slightly bigger version with bigger range and more boot space.

[@robertd9850]

I like that there are physical buttons and not endless iterations and choices. Just make a nice, drivable reasonably priced EV for my daily driver which is what they've done. I'd buy it for the name alone cuz I'm a cat person.

[@paulaspinall919]

A real stunner. External styling great. Magic bright interior, rather than the standard contemporary grey, grey, greeeeeeeyyyyyyy ….. 1530kgs, so light for an electric vehicle. Range is fine. Charging at home is realistic overnight, especially as most of the time only a small top up will be required. Price? Yup. Bit steep. If they had priced it much closer to £20k they couldn’t have kept up on the production line. All in all? Storming! 🥳

[@xye-NYC]

Looks like it's for people who can afford the Tesla Model 3 but looking for alternatives. Tesla makes tons of Model 3s in China and sell them all over the world - have you checked out their prices? Cheap they are not but they are selling them faster than they can make them. Just another example of how real inequality of wealth is.

[@SardiPax]

Nice review. Not a fan of the small mini-style cars myself but I must say the features and (internal) styling of this one made a pleasant change from the deathly boredom of the big western 'grey' manufacturers at the moment.

[@ohyesitsme]

It's not Mini sized it is actually about the same size as a VW ID3

[@jcollishaw]

Don’t know what I’m more excited for now, the Ora Funky Cat or Fully Charged Live in Sydney! Will drive my Model 3 the 700kms up from Melbourne for it!

[@YouTube]

test drive time let's goooo 🚗💨

[@vivafreedom4947]

*C H I N E S E J U N K*

[@ElroyMcDuff]

@@vivafreedom4947 It'll probably outlast whatever "Freedom Fries" dinosaur you're driving... And I say that as an American.

[@vivafreedom4947]

@@ElroyMcDuff I own Japanese Toyota, better than anything chinese or American can make

[@snowstrobe]

Absolutely right about the size thing. But for me the matron watching thing would be a deal breaker.

[@gingerninja7187]

Just the other day, watching yourself on scrapheap challenge, it would be great to see another new challenge if 2 teams could build an electric powered vehicle, I just loved that program, great memories, have you seen the all electric Citroen AMI from £19.99 per month not the best on mileage,but perfect for a town vehicle.

[@mustolourien5823]

I love its simplicity, not over-complicated and huge screens being pushed by western manufacturers in the name of latest technology.

[@st33ldi9ital]

It's a great, fun, playful design. They really nailed it, interior looks amazing, quite roomy for a compact, physical buttons.. good stuff!

[@dailyrider2975]

It used to make sense with ICE cars due to regulations. All safety equipment = min weight, which if you increase marginally increases fuel use. In exchange you get a giant portable tank which makes you feel safe. But with EVs, you get much more mileage out of lighter weight cars which means less batteries, which means less weight... so yeah smaller is better for EVs.

[@theowink]

I have a flexible dieseltank 40 liter Equal to 1000 km extra range

[@therealctoo4183]

@@theowink You must be rich to afford that much fuel. But wouldn't you rather spend that money on something that will NOT poison you?

[@jamesphillips2285]

@@therealctoo4183 It is possible they need the extra range for hotshot service or something.

[@huskypup3489]

American here. It's one thing to import a car from China. Quite another to have a network of dealers, service and repair centers and replacement parts.

[@Paulkjoss]

So good to see all these EVs coming up with BUTTONS!

[@JoelShapiro]

We are not offended. Thänks för an gräjt video! /Sweden

[@mafianoodles]

I live in Thailand. The Honda CRV used to be a smallish 4wd car and that model is still quite popular although over 15 years old. The latest models are huge and barely fit on some of the smaller roads. This car reviewed I have seen it all over thailand now.

[@sunrisejak2709]

I live in Thailand too. I test drove the GoodCat. Its underpowered. Otherwise not bad and reasonably priced. The GT version solved the weak motor but the price is now too high. And the availability of the GT is nearly impossible to get anyway. All the GoodCats should have the stronger motor as standard. Until this is properly addressed I won't consider one.

[@daniellabonte5540]

When will the ORA be available in Quebec, Canada

[@chasxreacts155]

Does it have automatic or remote parking now ?

[@BravoManUK]

Funky? yes. Small? no. Cheap? no, which is a shame, cause this looks like a cool car. A swing and a miss.

[@phuketexplorer]

Overpriced in the UK! Here in Thailand, a model with the same specifications as the Funky, retails for the equivalent of £17K. The best sports model, with bigger battery, better spec, wheels trim and accessories, is around £25K.

[@sIightIybored]

£17k seems fair, since that's EV uplift on top of the Fiat 500, which is the direct competitor to this in the quirky looks and size categories.

[@curtwuollet2912]

I'd like to know how these deal with a Minnesota winter since it seems the powers that be wish to force us to own electric. I notice no EVs in the winter. And very few here in the summer.

[@andrewwebster6025]

When I saw this at the Fully charged show, the price talked about was starting from £25000 , I had almost made up my mind this was the car I wanted, but the disappointment of the price with such a small battery has now put me off. I haven’t seen the MG4 yet but at the moment I’m more likely to go for one of those

[@moony2703]

Nice to know the viewing figures follow the vehicle size! Speaking of really hoping you get the Carver or something similar down to Australia. More 1-2 seaters with a little room for some shopping, air conditioning with ideally up to at least 60km/hr driving speed and a demister would be great! Also doors are a must, US micro vehicles seem to think they are optional for some reason??? Anyway. I know Carver has a highway version and a cargo version, not sure if they combine the two but would be awesome if they do. Just got to figure out how well it deals with potholes. XD

[@gilesa.4052]

If a Porche, a mini and a Nissan micra had a love child...

[@viperwb]

All of a sudden it becomes a history channel

[@jemmyhao]

great warranty, does that include battery ?

[@garytucker969]

Reminds me of a mini cooper and '03 nissan micra

[@ivankuljis1780]

'What's new, Funky Car?' 'Woah Woah Woah Woah' ( Tom 'Kool Cat' Jones )

[@stormjuice]

Made me smile :)

[@johncreed2627]

Can it run on flashlight batteries?

[@raymondteo2611]

I’m Singaporean after 6 months driving this ORA it’s 5 stars nothing less!!because or this car dozens of car factories will close shop.

[@tassieflash63]

Fantastic to see you take one of these for a spin Robert. I am so envious, as I have been waiting for at least eighteen months for an announcement as to when they may finally arrive into the EV backwater called Australia! For heavens sake, make it happen GWM!! And to make things more frustrating, you can pre-order these in New Zealand right now. These cars will sell like hotcakes! Make it happen!

[@JamesBryant4]

Hopefully Australia can stop being treated as the last dumping ground for ICE cars. Our laws and regulations have been heaven for old crappy cars to be dumped into.

[@stormjuice]

Be march/april or mid next year for us in Aus. I think the price will be about $50k though (so MG4 will be 10k less)

[@stormjuice]

@@JamesBryant4 Exactly. The sooner we get emissions standards in Australia the better. We've been the dumping ground for over 15 years for cars they weren't allowed to sell elsewhere. Hmmm. Maybe I should do a video on this? I'm so sick of seeing/smelling black smoke clouds from shitty cars/trucks here... we should also have a yearly roadworthy as well.

[@DatsunBloke7357]

@@stormjuice emmison laws really. I drive around a 85 datsun 720 diesel and love the diesel smell. I think more people should stop worrying about emmisons in Australia. Old cars are far more reliable than modern cars including electric and are easy to fix and maintain.

[@lindseyhatfield9017]

@@DatsunBloke7357 Ah yes the smell of diesel as you are inhaling NO2 and NO3 and SO2 and other particulates that lodge into the lungs and build up over time till you get emphasima, I much prefer clean air and the smell of the trees.

[@coreygrua3271]

A realistic look at “Made in China.” It is fascinating what Robert does with his KZbin statistics. This is quite an intelligent look at consumer preferences in this brave, new world. And…the Danish accent is worth a second listen.

[@Keyman135]

yeah, still Copy and Conquer

[@PRiMETECHAU]

@@Keyman135 I don't think anyone should copy Elon's EV's with all the Quality Control and Consumer Care issues people experience (all around the world not just in USA). Not denying his company has made some decent improvements with Lithium batteries.

[@dillerdaller]

Or swedish accent, irish og whatever ;p

[@ffbeexaid4509]

@@Keyman135 Stay salty.

[@LarryHopper]

I really like the look, which reminds me not only of Mini, but also of Porsche.

[@radiioman46]

How does it charge at the DCFC stations?

[@krishnandudey7622]

That Swedish bit was hillarious

[@stevenbarrett7648]

Love this little runabout, hate the silly price when these are quite cheap in China

[@jonahwhale9047]

What is the price in China?

[@zikjack2022]

so was bba in china/EU，in past years

[@jonahwhale9047]

@@zikjack2022 I'm interested to know how much the government is putting on top, & how much the distributor/dealership network adds on top. It needs a fair percentage to exist. It will most likely make more money then the Chinese off them. Europe/UK should make & buy their own otherwise the Chinese will destroy its ability to. How can shipping natural resources to China, then shipping manufactured items all over the world, be environmental?

[@albertchuabio]

That means a huge profit for the UK distributor.

[@user-gm1ov1zj8j]

@@jonahwhale9047 21000 usd

[@joso7228]

Just hired an ORA for a few days. Looks amazing - and you get stares. Great flowing drive. BUT some really annoying quirks - - sometimes the Indicators don't auto switch OFF and you can't get them OFF without flipping around for a minute. - as you cruise to a halt in traffic jams the Computer Lady will shout, "WARNING!! USE BRAKES!!" - it was built for China/USA grid systems not tight UK streets so the Screens keep flipping into Diagrams or Pictures of your road position (though you would never use these) and going down a One Way Street with cars either side you get a stupid diagram of all the parked cars. Why? - when you get to your destination the engine keeps running and keeps beeping if it thinks you have parked too close to another car - even when you are in neutral!! I've just been driving around my City for a few hours and I now have aches and tension in my shoulders from all these stupid irritating quirks. Apart from that - its great.

[@MrTwostring]

I love how the "rear end" shows a license plate that says BU7t0CKs

[@richardgoldsmith7278]

I went to see one in the flesh last Saturday. The biggest disappointment was the maximum charge speed on a High Speed Rapid charger was 63kW. If you get the longer range 64kW battery version it charges at a slightly better 67kW. This needs to change to be 100kW capable or longer journeys will involve a lot of waiting. The difference the OTA update made to my Model 3 SR+ in 2019 after I had toured Europe with a 100kW cap and then got 175kW enabled and saw 168kW on a V3 SuC, completely removes the waiting for the charge to finish on a multi-stop long journey in real world usage. It does have a 3 phase 11kW on board AC charger for those rare opportunities with 3 Phase AC charging at hotels or whatever.

[@phuketexplorer]

Don't forget these are first generation vehicles. As battery technology exponentially improves, we'll probably see charging times down to handful of minutes within the next ten years.

[@richardgoldsmith7278]

@@phuketexplorer I was considering it in comparison to its direct competition like the MG4, right now, not in 10 years. Something in excess of 100kW max DC charging is not hard to find or do. I think this was a poor decision on GWM’s part.