New energy vehicles are bringing a new wave of transformation to the automotive industry. One of their most significant features is the simplified powertrain system, which reduces the complexity of engines and gearboxes, making car manufacturing easier and allowing for more creative vehicle designs. Additionally, these vehicles are far more environmentally friendly compared to traditional fuel-powered cars.
As a result, we can expect to see more innovative and impressive new energy vehicles in the market—vehicles that go beyond the concept cars of the past. More and more emerging brands will enter the scene, offering consumers a wider range of choices.
This situation is similar to what happened in the mobile phone market over a decade ago, when only a few brands like Nokia and Motorola dominated the space. Today, however, we have a wide variety of options from companies like Apple, Huawei, OPPO, VIVO, and Xiaomi. As new energy vehicles continue to develop rapidly, it's likely that within the next 3 to 5 years, people’s perception of a "good car" will no longer be limited to traditional luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz or BMW. Instead, a range of new energy vehicles from emerging brands will dominate the market. The brand we're testing today is one of those rising stars.
Yundu New Energy, a joint venture established by four parties including the Fuzhou Automobile Group, was selected as a key project under Fujian Province's 13th Five-Year Plan. Since the end of 2015, just over a year and a half has passed, and the company is about to launch its first production model, which is both affordable and highly competitive.
What makes this car unique? What are its technical advantages? And why should you care about its performance? Let's take a closer look at the upcoming Yundu π1 electric SUV, focusing on its technology, driving experience, and overall design.
**Technical Experience**
The Yundu π1, an A0-class SUV, doesn't try too hard to stand out with flashy design elements. It maintains a practical yet cute appearance. The charging port is located at the front logo, a common feature among many new energy vehicles. However, due to its original R&D design, the π1 is different from some converted oil-powered cars. It allows for quick and convenient front-end charging, and the rear also includes both fast and slow charging ports, making the user experience much smoother and eliminating the problem of mismatched charging ports.
The π1 comes in two versions: urban and intercity. The urban version has a 24kWh battery with a maximum range of 200km, while the intercity version has a 38kWh battery and a range of up to 330km. We tested the intercity version, which offers excellent performance.
In terms of battery technology, the π1 and π3 models use 18650 cylindrical batteries made by Shenzhen BAK Power Battery Co., Ltd. These batteries have an energy density of 232 Wh/kg, and future models will reach nearly 300 Wh/kg. According to an agreement signed earlier this year, BAK Power Battery will supply over 40 million units to Yundu in 2017. Lin Mi, deputy general manager of Yundu, stated that the 18650 ternary battery is fully automated and easy to manage, making it an ideal choice for new energy vehicles. BAK is considered one of the top manufacturers in China for 18650 batteries, which is one of the main reasons Yundu chose them. In addition to purchasing batteries, Yundu and BAK will also collaborate on research and development in electronic control systems and battery packs.
According to staff, the first batch of electric taxis deployed in Beijing around 2012 used BAK batteries. Most of these vehicles have been running smoothly for over five years and more than 400,000 kilometers. Some even reached over 600,000 kilometers, proving the reliability and long-lasting performance of BAK's batteries.
By partnering with BAK, Yundu ensures that its vehicles offer extended battery life and high energy density. The 18650 cylindrical battery from BAK guarantees long-lasting endurance and safety, with internal heat management, pressure relief, isolation, and other technologies ensuring stability and efficiency under extreme conditions. It also controls cell degradation, providing a long service life. With BAK's support, the π1 can accelerate from 0 to 50 km/h in about 4.5 seconds.
**Driving Experience**
Despite being classified as a small SUV, the π1 offers a surprisingly spacious interior thanks to its intelligent design. Like other new energy vehicles, the π1 is incredibly quiet. When you press the accelerator, the response is very sensitive, and the power delivery is smooth and powerful. Although we didn’t perform a full acceleration test due to the venue limitations, the performance still impressed us.
The steering is light and precise, with feedback that feels natural and responsive. According to Yundu engineers, the precision of the steering system was designed by foreign experts, giving it a high level of refinement.
For suspension, the π1 uses a McPherson front and torsion beam rear setup, offering a balanced ride that’s comfortable and not overly stiff. This makes it ideal for city driving, where comfort is often more important than off-road capability.
Another advantage of new energy vehicles is the absence of a raised platform, which makes the rear seating area more comfortable. With a body length of 4.01 meters and a width of 1.73 meters, the π1 provides ample space for three average-sized adults in the back seat—something that would be cramped in a similarly sized conventional car.
**Technology Experience**
If there’s one standout feature of the π1, it’s its smart and internet-based technology. Unlike many traditional cars, the π1 breaks away from conventional design, such as removing the dashboard above the steering wheel or replacing it with a detachable tablet.
In today’s new energy vehicle market, having a large central screen is almost a necessity. However, these systems often lag behind the car’s development, leading to outdated software. Many drivers still prefer using their phones for navigation and music. To address this, the π1 takes a unique approach by offering a customizable central control system. The detachable Pad inside the car is not a standard component but an optional accessory. If users don’t want it, they can use their own phone or tablet with a universal bracket and charging interface provided by Yundu.
Once connected, the device controls the vehicle, and after getting off, it becomes a remote management tool for the car. This is both convenient and secure. Additionally, the system supports both Android and iOS, making it compatible with devices like the iPad mini.
Beyond basic settings, the system includes an intelligent appointment charging function. For example, if you want to charge your car at night, the system can schedule the charge during off-peak hours, saving you money. You can even monitor the charging status remotely via your phone or tablet, ensuring peace of mind.
In terms of safety, the π1 features an integrated driving recorder in the rearview mirror, which includes collision detection. In the event of an accident, it automatically records one minute before and after the incident and uploads it to the cloud. Even in severe accidents, the data remains intact, helping authorities with investigations.
Overall, Yundu New Energy has developed quickly since its founding in late 2015, and the quality, design, and tech configuration of the π1 are all highly competitive. The city version starts at around 80,000 yuan, while the intercity version is priced at 100,000 yuan. These prices are very attractive for a pure electric SUV. As more new energy vehicles flood the market, the biggest challenge for consumers may not be choosing a car—but deciding which one to buy.
zhejiang ttn electric co.,ltd , https://www.ttnpower.com