Dayun Yuehu S5 compact SUV launches as SA’s most affordable EV

Dayun Yuehu S5 compact SUV launches as SA’s most affordable EV

‍Known for manufacturing heavy trucks, light trucks, motorcycles, and engines, Dayun is the latest EV carmaker of Chinese origins to join the local EV fold by introducing the Yuehu S5 BEV compact SUV. 

Before delving into the details, it’s important to note that the Dayun brand was established in 1987 and introduced the 5-seater Yuehu S5 in 2017. Since then, this model has achieved remarkable success across more than 20 countries in North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, with over 35,000 units sold.

For the local market, the compact SUV will be distributed by Enviro Automotive, an importer and distributor of BEVs, and is available in two 5-door models: Standard and VIP. Looking at the price tag of R399,900 for the former and R449,900 for the latter, it’s poised to become one of the most affordable EVs in SA, slotting just below the BYD Dolphin, which carries a price tag of R539,900. 

A 31.7kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack powers both variants, providing power to a front-mounted AC electric motor with 35kW and 105Nm. With a single-speed gearbox, the Yuehu S5 can travel up to a claimed 330km between charges, and recharging the battery from 20% to 80% will take less than an hour when using a DC fast charger, according to the manufacturer. The Yuehu S5 supports level 2 AC charging at home, which allows for considerably slower recharge times to top up the battery.

Speaking of size, the Dayun Yuehu S5 is relatively small when compared to the BYD Dolphin and GWM Ora, courtesy of a length of 3,695mm, a width of 1,685mm, a height of 1,598mm, and a wheelbase of 2,410mm. 

"At just 3.65 metres long, the Dayun Yuehu S5 is perfect for daily urban commutes, navigating congested city streets, and fitting into tight parking spots. It offers responsive handling, superior performance, ample space, family comfort, and peace of mind with its comprehensive safety features," says Gideon Wolvaardt, Managing Director of Enviro Automotive.

In terms of specifications, it comes standard with LED headlights and taillights, 15-inch alloy wheels, and a high-mounted brake light. The VIP adds bigger 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and front and rear parking sensors. 

It comes in five exterior colours: ivory white, pale green, Misty Rose Pink, teal, and dark red. 

The interior, on the other hand, boasts features such as a 7-inch LCD infotainment screen, an 8-inch central control screen, a multi-functional steering wheel, Bluetooth, a hands-free system, radio, USB and Type-C ports, climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. 

The VIP version will also allow buyers to control the car's locking and unlocking, windows, air conditioning, and remotely start the car via the SmartLink APP.

Safety features include a steel cage body, dual disc brakes, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, driver and passenger airbags, ABS, EBD, BAS, traction control, hill start assist, slope descent control, and automatic cruise control. Despite these features, the Yuehu S5 doesn’t seem to have any safety crash test records from reputable institutions.

The Dayun Yuehu S5 comes with a 3-year/60,000km warranty and service plan and a 5-year/120,000km battery warranty. The service intervals are set for every 12 months, or 20,000km.

"We are thrilled to introduce the Dayun Yuehu S5 to our EV product line-up, as it appeals to a broader group of customers seeking affordable electric vehicle options," adds Wolvaardt. 

Enviro Automotive’s range of vehicles is available for viewing and first-hand experience at its dealership in Pretoria. Additionally, the company says it’s working on establishing a comprehensive network of authorised dealerships. 

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