The aura of the GWM ORA

Despite several hurdles in the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) in Namibia, such as pricing, long distances between towns, charging stations and points, among others, Pupkewitz GWM introduced the ORA 03 in Windhoek over the weekend, aiming to overcome many of these hurdles.

The ORA 03 might be the smaller one of the GWM siblings, but it still comes with all the bells and whistles expected of his bigger brothers. So much so that the ORA can even stand side by side with the more premium (and more expensive) brands.

As the saying goes, “first impressions last” and rightfully so, with attention to detail and design guidance from former Porsche designer Emanuel Derta speaking volumes.

From the outside to the inside of the ORA, handcraft is the buzzword. This front wheel drive vehicle encapsulates luxury and functionality, boasting an array of standout features, according to Nico Pieters, the franchise director of Pupkewitz GWM.

Apart from all the safety and security features coming standard in all four models (300 and 400 Super Luxury, 400 Ultra Luxury (UL) and the 400GT UL), owners still get much needed airbags, seat belt warning (front and rear), a secondary collision mitigation (SCM) system. There are many more safety features, but the best is that the ORA achieved a five-star rating from the Australian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP).

The exterior of the car combines a bit of nostalgia with contemporary flair, a statement notes. Adding more finesse to the car adorned with soft lines is a set of stylish 18-inch wheels. Coming in eight different colours, other specs for a comfortable drive include adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, six way power, driver’s seat wireless phone charger, to mention a few.

Surprisingly enough, the back space for passengers is much bigger than anticipated and can seat two adults in comfort. The interior of the car is impeccable, as expected, with high quality materials used in the interior and state-of-the-art infotainment.

The technical specs are also impressive, with the ORA being built for looks, comfort and performance.

The ORA comes standard with an on board portable charger (rated current -13A), allowing owners to effortlessly charge their vehicle at any plug at home.

For owners peace of mind there are also charging stations at Pupkewitz GWM and at the Grove Mall.

With some of the hurdles mentioned by motor owners being the fact that charging an EV takes up too much time in comparison with conventional cars. If one compares the cost saving in the long term, however, it is a viable option for future investment.

Also, in the case of the ORA, it needs less than an hour to charge from 10% to 89% with a 64kW charger, which is ideal for that “quick top up” for those on the go.

Meanwhile, an 111kW AC charger will fully charge the battery in around 5,5 hours with a comfortable reach of 310km.

GWM sales executive Rina Amushendje emphasised the value of cost efficiency when owning an ORA 03 as it is the ideal vehicle for quick town runs.

For readers interested in the speed and other capabilities of the EV, the performance is quite impressive as the ORA 03 line-up harnesses the power of a permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering an impressive 128kW and a 250Nm peak of torque to the front wheels.

Weighing just over 1,5 tonnes, the ORA 03 accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8,5 seconds with a top speed of nearly 160km/h.

Priced from N$699 900, finance on the vehicle is available and potential clients are encouraged to speak to sales executives at Pupkewitz GWM for more information.

The ORA also comes with an extensive warranty package including 7-year/200 000km vehicle warranty, an 8-year/150 000km warranty on high voltage parts, a 7-year/105 000km service plan and a 7-year/unlimited km roadside assistance. Service intervals are 12-months or 15 000km (whichever comes first).