GWM’s all-electric small hatch, the Ora, goes on sale today with pricing that is sure to give the competition plenty to think about.
With MSRP pricing starting at $43,990 (with an increase that will vary state by state to a drive-away price) the groovy looking, Chinese-built Ora five-door is officially one of the cheapest EVs available in Australia, and it goes head to head with the MG ZS EV (from $44,990 before on-road costs) and the BYD Atto 3 (from $48,011 before on-road costs).
The $43,990 sticker gets you into the base-model version with the smaller of two batteries on offer (48kW) for a range of 320km.
The same car with the larger, long-range battery costs $47,990 and while it makes an identical 126kW and 250Nm, the 63kWh battery gives it a claimed range of 420km.
The GT is the third Ora model and while it’s mechanically very similar, it also gets the larger battery and slightly more power (GWM hasn’t told us exactly how much more yet). The extra urge reduces range slightly to 400km. The GT hits the shelves at $53,990 plus on-road costs.
Even in its most basic form, the Ora offers plenty of gear for the money with 18-inch alloy wheels, dual 10.25-inch screens, full Android and Apple connectivity, a 360-degree camera, powered front seats and a trendy, two-tone interior with plush looking quilted leatherette trim.
The larger battery is the only change in the step from entry-level to long-range model, but the GT gains a specific grille, panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, hands-free tailgate and automatic parking.
Safety seems to be an Ora strong suit with Euro NCAP testing giving it five stars and standard driver aids including auto emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assistance, forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot detection and active cruise-control.
For more information, you can check out the review and launch video of the Ora on this website.
2023 GWM Ora pricing before on-road costs
| Variant | Transmission | Cost |
| Standard Range | Automatic | $43,990 |
| Long Range | Automatic | $47,990 |
| GT | Automatic | $53,990 |
Keyword: 2023 GWM Ora electric car priced! New EV hatch targeting BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV and Nissan Leaf, but which is cheapest?