Great Wall Motor (GWM) is betting on nostalgia to reignite sales of its Ora brand. The debut of the Ora 5, an all-electric SUV with a distinct retro design, kicks off pre-orders in China on November 12. This move comes at a crucial time for Ora: sales have been slumping significantly, dropping by over 40% last year and continuing to decline in early 2025. The company hopes the Ora 5 will help it capture more market share in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) sector.
The Ora 5 directly challenges established players like BYD’s Atto 3 (offering a 510 km range) and GAC Aion Y Younger (430 km range). Its key differentiator? An eye-catching retro aesthetic, featuring rounded edges, oval headlights, and an integrated rear light cluster that stretches across the entire width of the back.
Cutting-Edge Tech Under Classic Looks
While channeling vintage vibes, the Ora 5 incorporates modern technology for a competitive edge. A prominent roof-mounted lidar hints at advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), promising greater safety features. The cabin prioritizes minimalist design with a light color palette. It boasts a large 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, controlled by GWM’s third-generation Coffee OS software platform. What powers this system? A cutting-edge MediaTek 4nm processor designed specifically for automotive cockpits, promising smooth performance and quick response times.
Range and Performance: A Blend of Practicality and Power
Two battery options will be available – a 45.3 kWh pack offering a range of 480 km (based on China’s CLTC standard), or a larger 58.3 kWh option extending the range to a maximum of 580 km. Both powertrains deliver a potent punch with a single electric motor generating 150 kW (201 hp). The Ora 5 also emphasizes practical storage solutions, boasting over 30 compartments throughout its interior, including an innovative hollowed-out center console that adds to the usable space.
A Vital Push for GWM’s EV Future
GWM is clearly placing a lot of hope on the Ora 5. The company has witnessed considerable success in China with its Haval and Tank brands – particularly their own electric offerings. However, the Ora brand has struggled in recent times. With the launch of this new model, GWM aims to capitalize on growing consumer interest in retro-inspired design while simultaneously providing a technologically advanced EV experience. The coming weeks will reveal if this strategy is enough to revive Ora’s fortunes.
