New Spy Photo of iCAR 05 Confirms its Electrical Nature

A leaked photo of the forthcoming iCAR 05 has been circulating online, showcasing a suspected Chinese government-backed (GBA) electric car. The test vehicle's body plate bears the "iCAR 05" designation, but sources suggest that this model may not survive under the new branding strategy.

Design and Features

Design-wise, the iCAR 05 appears to follow a similar design language as its predecessor, the iCAR 03. The leaked photo suggests that the test vehicle is actually an upgraded version of the iCAR 03, with some noticeable changes. This includes an extended wheelbase, a removable rear hatch, and mismatched front wheels.

Powertrain and Electric Vehicle Features

Contrary to expectations, the leaked image reveals that the iCAR 05 has features typically associated with conventional gasoline-powered vehicles. A gascap and exhaust system can be seen on the vehicle's side, suggesting its potential hybrid nature. Specifically, a high-energy density e-pedal port is visible, implying that this car may be based on an electric or plug-in hybrid (PHV) layout.

In contrast, iCAR 03 boasts only an electric powertrain and lacks gas capabilities. Given the recent transition of variants from model year 2013 with gasoline models to those using gasoline-hybrid technology in China's automotive market, sources further speculate that this car might be a variant of V-Electro.

Interior Design

Designing in inside is closer to I-car 03 but one thing different was new steering wheel layout without gear shift.