Skywell ET5 86 kWh

Overview

The Skywell ET5 86 kWh is a Chinese-built electric SUV aiming to offer generous space and a capable battery for European families, emerging as a bit of a dark horse in the competitive EV field. With a new price around €56,900 and used examples seen near €26,900, it offers an intriguing value proposition. Its key strengths include a roomy interior and a practical real-world range, making it a contender for those who prioritise sensible electric motoring over big-brand flash, especially considering its Chinese origins and production start in 2022.

What's New for 2025?

For the 2025 model year, the Skywell ET5 86 kWh largely continues its established formula, focusing on delivering a solid, no-frills EV experience. Major overhauls aren't on the cards for this particular trim; instead, expect potential minor software updates to the infotainment system and perhaps some subtle tweaks to standard equipment lists as Skywell refines its offering for the European market. It’s more about steady evolution than outright revolution this year, building on the strengths of the model first introduced in 2022.

Design & Exterior

The ET5 86 kWh presents a contemporary, if somewhat understated, SUV design that should appeal to a wide audience. It's a fairly substantial vehicle, measuring 4698 mm in length, 1908 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and 1696 mm in height, giving it a confident stance on its 2800 mm wheelbase. Expect smart LED lighting at both ends and alloy wheels that complement its family-oriented appeal. The overall look is clean and functional, fitting its role as a practical electric SUV without unnecessary fuss.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Skywell ET5 86 kWh offers a spacious five-seat cabin, with a focus on practicality and comfort. Material quality is generally fit for purpose, aiming for durability in a family car. Tech is usually centred around a large touchscreen for infotainment, with smartphone connectivity like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto likely included. For luggage, there's a decent 467-litre boot, which expands to a very useful 1141 litres when you fold the rear seats flat. Unfortunately, there's no frunk for extra storage upfront.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't expect lightning-quick sprints; the ET5 86 kWh manages the 0-100 km/h dash in a respectable 9.6 seconds. Its single front-mounted Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) delivers 150 kW of power and 320 Nm of torque, driving the front wheels. This setup is geared more towards comfortable, smooth cruising rather than thrilling B-road antics, with a top speed of 150 km/h. The ride quality generally aims for comfort, and selectable regenerative braking modes will help maximise efficiency during daily driving.

Range, Battery & Charging

The ET5 86 kWh features an 81 kWh usable battery capacity (86 kWh nominal), providing a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of approximately 416 km, which is pretty handy for daily commutes and longer trips. Its efficiency is rated at 5.14 km/kWh. Charging is handled via a CCS Type 2 port. Standard AC charging is at 11 kW, allowing a full charge in around 7.5 hours. For faster top-ups, DC fast charging is supported at up to 100 kW on its 400V architecture.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While a specific Euro NCAP safety rating for the Skywell ET5 86 kWh may not yet be widely published for this China-manufactured model, it typically comes equipped with a range of modern driver-assistance systems. Buyers can generally expect features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring to be available, contributing to a secure driving experience. It's always best to confirm the standard and optional safety kit with a local dealer for the latest specifications.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Skywell, or its European distributors, generally provides a competitive warranty to reassure buyers. This often includes a comprehensive vehicle warranty, potentially around 5 years, and a separate battery warranty commonly lasting 8 years or for a significant number of kilometres, covering degradation. As an electric vehicle, the ET5 benefits from reduced routine maintenance compared to petrol or diesel cars, mainly involving checks on brakes, tyres, and software. Reliability is still being established across Europe for this newer brand.