The Yi is the first all-electric four-door coupe rolled out by JMEV following its joint venture with Renault. Launched in 2021, it was billed as a pioneering global smart electric coupe. Primarily engineered for export markets, the model has struggled to gain traction in its home market.
Positioned as a C-segment all-electric sedan, the 2024 model is priced between RM169,800 and RM186,800, offering two CLTC-rated range options: 430 km and 550 km. It is predominantly targeted at commercial fleets such as ride-hailing and taxis, as well as export destinations.
In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,675 mm long, 1,835 mm wide, and 1,480 mm tall with a 2,750 mm wheelbase and a 410-litre boot capacity. Up front, it features a closed-off grille flanked by split-type LED headlights, while the flanks showcase flush pop-out door handles and a sleek fastback silhouette. The rear is distinguished by distinctive Y-shaped smoked LED taillights. Inside, the cabin prioritises utility, with entry and mid-tier variants omitting a central infotainment touchscreen.
The EV is available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) guises:
| Drivetrain | Motor Output | Torque | Range | 0-100 km/h |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FWD Variant | 110 kW (150 PS) | 225 Nm | 430/550 km | 10.2 seconds |
| AWD Variant | 170 kW (231 PS) | 395 Nm | 470 km | 5.8 seconds |
Suspension duties are handled by front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup across the board, tuned on the firmer side to maintain rear passenger composure. The AWD variant features dual-motor electric all-wheel drive paired with a front double-wishbone suspension setup.
There is a stark equipment disparity across the variant lineup: base trims get only two airbags, halogen headlamps, and miss out on a central touchscreen, whereas top-tier trims step up to six airbags, twin 12.3-inch integrated displays, and Level 2 ADAS (flagship variant only). An electronic parking brake (EPB) is standard across the range, with DC fast charging taking 30 minutes from 30% to 80% SoC.
The Yi is a textbook case of a domestic model turning its focus overseas. Between January and May 2024, cumulative domestic sales amounted to just 912 units (averaging around 180 units a month), contrasted with over 2,000 units exported to markets like the Middle East over the same period. Factors contributing to its sluggish domestic uptake include a bare-bones entry-level spec (only two airbags and halogen headlights at RM118,800), uncompetitive range figures, and formidable rivals at the same price bracket, such as the Qin PLUS EV and Changan Qiyuan A07. The revised 2024 pricing of RM169,800 to RM186,800 has further eroded its value proposition.
On the whole, while the Yi holds its own in mechanical running gear (rear independent suspension) and export deliveries, steep domestic pricing, a compromised spec walk, and weak brand equity have pushed monthly domestic sales down to double digits. It stands as a classic case of an EV pushed to the fringes of the market, appealing mainly to fleet operators or budget-conscious buyers unconcerned with brand prestige.
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