Real life transformer: This Chinese EV shifts from an SUV to a pickup for just $28,000

You can now buy a real-life transformer in China. Changan Auto launched the Nevo E07, an electric SUV that converts to a pickup truck at the push of a button. The all-electric transformer starts at around $28,000.

Although Changan is China’s oldest automaker, with its origins tracing back to 1862, the company is helping lead the country in a new direction.

Led by new brands like Deepal and Avatr, Changan sold over 7,400 vehicles per day in the first half of the year, up nearly 10% from 2023. Now, the company has a new game-changer hitting the market.

Changan’s Nevo brand launched the E07, which it calls the first mass-produced transformer SUV. With the press of a button, the electric SUV can transform into a pickup.

The retractable electric-powered trunk cover combines the best of an SUV and a pickup. With it closed, the E07 looks like a stretched-out SUV. When the cover opens, it becomes a functional truck bed fit for larger items like bikes, camping equipment, and more.

Check out the EV that can transform from SUV to pickup

At 5,054 mm long, 1,996 mm wide, and 1,640 mm tall with a wheelbase of 3,120 mm, the E07 is slightly shorter than Tesla’s Model X but has a longer wheelbase (5,057 mm tall, 1,999 mm wide, and 1,680 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,965 mm).

Because of the large trunk, however, the E07 only has two rows of seating. The interior features a 15.4″ infotainment at the center of an otherwise minimalistic display. It also includes a 28.86″ head-up display.

The Changan Nevo 07 is available in EV and extended-range options. The all-electric base “Air” model has a 338 hp (252 kW) rear electric motor and starts at around $28,000 (199,900 yuan). An added front e-motor gives AWD models up to 590 hp (440 kW).

With 70 and 90 kWh battery options, the electric SUV (or pickup truck) has a CLTC driving range between 342 miles (551 km) and 435 miles (701 km).

Changan isn’t the first to propose an EV that transforms from an SUV to a pickup. Others, like Audi, teased it with its Activesphere concept. However, Changan claims to be the first to put it into mass production. Tesla’s Cybertruck (check out our review) has a similar feature, but there’s no mistaking that as an SUV.

What do you think of the shape-shifting EV? Would you buy one for under $30,000? Drop us a comment below to let us know your thoughts.

Source: CarNewsChina, Changan Auto