New China EV brand eyeing Australasia

Speculation is mounting a new Chinese EV could be coming to Australia and New Zealand.

SERES (reportedly standing for Silicon Valley Electric Vehicles and Range Extended) is considering right-hand drive markets (including Europe) and unveiled a small right-hand drive electric SUV – the SERES 3 – at the IAA Mobility Munich international motor show, September 5-10.

A SERES representative told Drive.com.au the company is considering right-hand-drive markets and is closely studying Australia as a destination but doesn’t yet have regulatory certification for the SERES 3.

The SERES 3 was among three models from the company displayed at the Germany auto show, others including medium and large SUVs in left-hand drive, the SERES 5 and 7 respectively.

It introduced electric cars in Germany and the Netherlands about three years ago.

SERES was formerly known as the Chongqing Jinkang New Energy Automobiles and is reportedly linked to a Chinese engine and technology company involved in hydrogen as well.

The SERES 3 reportedly has a front electric motor producing 120kW power and 195Nm torque form a 54kW/h battery providing up to 331km range.

It’s said to be cheap too.