Electric Shock: Can the Skywell BE11 Overcome its ‘Below Average’ Reputation at a Bargain Price
Skywell BE11 Review: A New Electric SUV Enters the UK Market
The Skywell BE11, a new electric SUV from a Chinese joint venture between Skyworth and Nanjing Golden Dragon, is set to go on sale in the UK. Innovation Automotive, a UK company, will import the vehicles into Great Britain.
Established in 2017, Skywell aims to compete with established brands like Mercedes-Benz and Audi, a bold goal considering its relatively new presence in the market.
The BE11 boasts a range of 399km with a 72kWh battery and 489km with an 86kWh battery. The drive motor produces 203ps and 32.5kg-m, making it a front-wheel drive vehicle.
Measuring 4720mm in length, 1908mm in width, and 1696mm in height, the BE11 is a relatively large SUV, comparable in size to the BMW iX3.
UK prices are expected to start at around £35,000, placing it in the same price range as the Toyota bZ4X, Volkswagen ID.4, and Audi Q4 e-tron.
The exterior design is simple yet modern, with LED headlights, chrome accents, and 19-inch diamond-cut aluminum wheels. The rear features wide taillights that display the SKYWELL logo when lit.
Interior and Performance Review
The interior space is bright and open, thanks to the panoramic glass roof. Ample storage spaces and comfortable rear seats make it a practical choice for daily use.
However, the dark gray interior falls short of expectations, with a strong fake wood panel, hard synthetic leather seats, and excessive plastic trim that may scratch easily.
Skywell BE11 (UK spec)The 12.8-inch infotainment touch monitor is a notable feature, but the software is buggy, and the satnav is not yet functional in the UK. Additionally, the touchscreen menus are clunky, and the regenerative braking settings are difficult to access.
On the road, the single drive motor provides sufficient power, but the accelerator response is peculiar, and the overall response is slightly delayed. The regenerative braking could also be stronger, requiring more modulation to achieve a smooth stop.
While the Skywell BE11 shows promise, its dynamic capabilities and interior finish fall short of its rivals. However, its competitive pricing and range make it a viable option for those in the market for an electric SUV.