A new electric sedan by Forthing
Presentation and design
Chinese manufacturer Forthing, a subsidiary of Dongfeng, recently unveiled its new electric sedan, the Xinghai S7. This sedan, first presented in March, positions itself as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model S, BYD Seal, and Nio ET7. It features a clean design, notably with a full grille optimizing aerodynamics, allowing it to achieve an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.191.
In terms of dimensions, the Xinghai S7 measures 4.94 meters long, 1.92 meters wide, and 1.50 meters high. It is equipped with standard 19-inch wheels, with an option for 20-inch wheels.
Interior and technology
For the first time, Forthing reveals the interior of its new sedan, which features a rather classic design reminiscent of BYD. It includes a large 15.6-inch touchscreen using the Xinghai OS infotainment system, compatible with smartphone connectivity and voice recognition. The digital instrumentation is provided by an 8.8-inch screen, grouping all controls since physical buttons have disappeared. This could pose problems if the car is marketed in Europe.
Additionally, the Xinghai S7 is equipped with an induction smartphone charger, as well as heated and ventilated seats. Thanks to a wheelbase of 2.92 meters, the sedan can comfortably accommodate five people. It offers a trunk volume between 541 and 1,303 liters, complemented by a frunk at the front, the size of which has not yet been disclosed.
Performance and price
Orders for the Forthing Xinghai S7 have begun in China with a price of 129,800 yuan (approximately 16,418 euros). However, this price will increase significantly in Europe due to customs duties, and the car would not benefit from the 4,000-euro ecological bonus as it is made in China. Nevertheless, Dongfeng plans to open a factory in Italy, which could change the situation.
The Xinghai S7 is equipped with a 218-horsepower engine and 310 Nm of torque, allowing a 0 to 100 km/h in 6.67 seconds and a maximum speed of 160 km/h. The sedan uses a 56.8 kWh LFP battery, offering a range of 555 kilometers according to the Chinese CLTC cycle, equivalent to about 470 kilometers with European WLTP homologation. The charging time from 30 to 80% in direct current is 26 minutes.
Future developments
In addition to the Xinghai S7 sedan, Forthing is also working on launching an electric minivan and a new SUV. The Chinese manufacturer thus continues its development in its domestic market, while considering future expansion in Europe.
