Roewe Ei5

Model Overview

The Roewe Ei5 is a compact all-electric estate (station wagon) under SAIC Motor's Roewe marque. First launched in March 2018, the model is positioned as a distinctive new energy vehicle tailored for family buyers, standing out as one of the rare pure electric wagons in the domestic market. Built on a dedicated all-electric estate platform, the Ei5 blends the practical cargo capacity of an estate with the zero-emission benefits of an electric powertrain. In March 2021, the all-new Roewe Ei5 was officially launched with 3 variants, carrying official recommended retail prices ranging from RM139,800 to RM153,800; earlier versions were priced between RM128,800 and RM158,800. As of June 2026, the on-sale line-up remains primarily centred around the 2021 model.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the Roewe Ei5 embodies Roewe’s signature "Rhythm Design" philosophy. The front fascia adopts a closed-off grille embellished with "parametric Roewe Kirin" motifs, complemented by an illuminated central brand logo for enhanced visual presence. The 2021 model introduces the "Electronic National Trend" design theme, featuring a full-width electrified front fascia flanked by vector matrix LED headlamps linked by a gloss black trim strip to create a seamless, cohesive look. The side profile showcases the hallmark charm of an estate, with an elongated roofline flowing from the front to the rear, paired with an upswept shoulder line to deliver an elegant, elongated stance. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,600 mm long (4,544 mm for early versions), 1,818 mm wide, and 1,543 mm tall (1,513 mm for early versions), with a wheelbase of 2,665 mm (2,690 mm for selected versions). At the rear, smoked LED arrow-feather automatic tail lamps are linked by a chrome garnish, echoing the front-end design.

Inside, the 2021 model embraces the "Electric New Intelligence" design theme, drawing inspiration from a contemporary smart-home ambience. The dashboard adopts a multi-tiered layout accented by light-toned trim surfaces, high-gloss black inserts, and electric blue contrast accents. Gear selection is handled via a parametric stippled electronic rotary dial, which lights up in white upon start-up and switches to an amber glow when the Park (P) button is pressed.

Powertrain and Performance

The Roewe Ei5 is driven by a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The 2021 model features a second-generation 8-layer hairpin-wound permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a maximum output of 135 kW (approx. 184 PS) and a peak torque of 280 Nm. Earlier versions were powered by a motor generating 85 kW (116 PS) and peak torque of either 225 Nm or 255 Nm. Power is channelled through a single-speed EV reduction gearbox. The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 185 km/h.

In terms of range, the 2021 model packs a 61.1 kWh ternary lithium battery pack supplied by CATL, achieving an energy density of 170.1 Wh/kg. It delivers an NEDC-rated combined driving range of 501 km, matching the 501 km rating under CLTC testing conditions. Earlier upgraded models offered a combined range of 420 km. When plugged into a DC fast charger, the battery can be replenished from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes (or 40 minutes to 80%). The car is also equipped with a 2.2 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply function, alongside efficiency-boosting hardware such as a smart heat pump climate control system and the iBooster electromechanical brake booster.

Chassis and Handling

Chassis-wise, the Roewe Ei5 employs a front MacPherson strut independent suspension paired with a rear torsion beam non-independent setup. The suspension tuning is geared towards ride comfort, delivering stable cruising on paved tarmac with compliant bump-absorption capabilities. The steering system features a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel that offers reassuring tactile feedback. Braking performance is assisted by the iBooster smart electromechanical braking system, which enhances regenerative braking efficiency. Drivers can choose from three drive modes: Eco, Standard, and Sport. Regenerative braking intensity can be adjusted via a dedicated rocker switch positioned above the rotary gear selector.

Cabin and Equipment

Inside the cabin, the Roewe Ei5 is equipped with a 10.25-inch floating central touchscreen infotainment display and a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. Infotainment duties are managed by the Zebra Smart Drive VENUS operating system (earlier models ran Zebra Smart Drive 2.0), supporting continuous voice commands for up to 90 seconds from a single wake-up prompt, along with connected navigation, multimedia entertainment, telematics, and OTA software updates. Lower-spec variants support Apple CarPlay and SaicLink connectivity. For seating, higher-spec grades feature premium leather upholstery with a zero-gravity luxury seat design, incorporating reverse-curved cushions and backrests with dual-density foam padding. The front seats come with power adjustment and heating functions. Boot capacity is one of the Ei5's primary highlights, offering 479 litres (or 578 litres) in standard configuration, expandable to 1,367 litres (or 1,456 litres) with the rear seats folded down. LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and a standard sunroof come standard across the entire range.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the Roewe Ei5 comes standard with an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), and Hill Hold Control (HHC). Passive safety provisions include front airbags for the driver and front passenger, front side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags. Top-tier variants are equipped with the AI Pilot advanced driver assistance suite, delivering Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, which encompasses All-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Speed Assist System (SAS). It is further complemented by a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a UVC deep-ultraviolet optical air sterilisation feature.

Market Performance and Verdict

During its early market run, the Roewe Ei5 enjoyed robust sales momentum, frequently placing among the top sellers in the new energy vehicle segment for multiple consecutive months. However, as EV market competition intensified and product refresh cycles slowed down (with no full model change introduced since March 2021), showroom appeal gradually softened. Industry analysts attribute its subdued performance to niche market demand for pure electric estates in the domestic segment, diminishing value-for-money competitiveness, and modest brand recall in the NEV arena. From a product standpoint, the Ei5 won over family buyers with its distinctive wagon styling and practical interior packaging, though there remains room for improvement in cabin material refinement and real-world EV range. On the whole, as a pioneer among Chinese-built all-electric estates, the Roewe Ei5 retains a unique market standing and notable significance in its segment.