Malaysia’s electric vehicle landscape has gained a new player with the launch of the iCAUR 03, an electric SUV that the company claims is the country’s first fully electric off-road capable vehicle in the C-segment category. iCAUR represents a collaboration between Chery and SmartMi Tech, with global expansion plans targeting 100 countries and over 2,000 sales and service centers by 2028. The iCAUR 03 was launched in Malaysia on 9 September 2025 with Malaysia serving as the first global market for the brand’s launch.

“Defined by its core tenet — ‘Born to Play’ — every iCAUR model embodies intelligence, innovation, and interaction. These vehicles are an extension of oneself, crafted for explorers, trendsetters, and the young at heart. Today, we go beyond introducing a new model; we are ready to prove our capability and define a new genre: the adventure EV.”

Emily Lek, Vice President of iCAUR Malaysia

The iCAUR 03’s specifications reflect its adventure-oriented positioning. Measuring 4,406mm in length with a 2,715mm wheelbase, the SUV features what the company calls its i-BOX design language, characterised by angular lines and dynamic LED signatures.

More importantly for off-road capability, the vehicle offers a 28-degree approach angle, 32-degree departure angle, and can handle gradients of up to 55 percent. These specifications are supported by short overhangs at both ends and the iROAD system, which provides up to 10 selectable all-terrain drive modes.

The SUV’s construction centers around what iCAUR calls its iCARE safety system, featuring an aluminum body and monocoque chassis with anti-corrosion protection rated for 30 years. The structure delivers 31,882 Nm of torsional rigidity, which the company claims exceeds that of modern sports cars.

iCAUR offers the 03 in two configurations to cater to different driving needs. The rear-wheel drive model produces 135 kW (184 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, while the dual-motor iWD variant generates 205 kW (279 PS) and 385 Nm.

Both versions utilise a compact 6-in-1 electric drive module that integrates the Motor Control Unit, Onboard Charger, and Converter. The 2WD model comes with a 65.7 kWh LFP battery offering 426km of NEDC-rated range, while the iWD variant features a 69.8 kWh battery with 418km range.

Charging capabilities include 80 kW DC fast charging and 6.6 kW AC charging. The vehicle also supports Vehicle-to-Load functionality at 3.2 kW, allowing owners to power external devices directly from the car.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags and a Level 2 ADAS suite encompassing Autonomous Emergency Braking, Front Collision Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Traffic Jam Assist, among other features.

Technology features include a 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor, paired with a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The iWD variant comes equipped with a 12-speaker INFINITY audio system, while both models offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Interior amenities vary by trim level, with the iWD version featuring ventilated and massage front seats, while both variants include ventilated rear seats. Cargo capacity stands at 450 liters, expandable to 1,238 litres with rear seats folded, plus a 40-litre auxiliary cargo box mounted on the rear hatch.

iCAUR backs the 03 with a seven-year or 150,000km vehicle warranty, plus an eight-year or 160,000km battery and drive unit warranty. The company has also developed the iCARE Insurance Programme in collaboration with multiple insurers, including coverage for EV charging equipment and unlimited towing services.

A battery replacement guarantee ensures one-to-one replacement if the battery’s State of Health drops below 70 percent. Wallbox installation is available through partnerships with EVC and Kineta for RM1,388.

Early adopters benefit from an exclusive package for bookings made by September 17, 2025, including one year of unlimited charging via the JomCharge network, a RM3,000 lifestyle package with vouchers from various retailers, and a complimentary RM3,400 Wallbox charger.

The iCAUR 03 launches as a fully built-up import, with local assembly planned to begin in January 2026 at the Chery Corporate Malaysia facility in Shah Alam. The company aims to establish up to 18 sales points and nine service centers nationwide by September, including expansion into Sabah and Sarawak by the fourth quarter of 2025.

Available in five colours including the signature Aurora Green, the iCAUR 03 can also be specified in a Black Phantom Edition for an additional RM20,000, featuring an exclusive exterior bodykit, matte-black finish, roof rack platform, and side-ladder.

The iCAUR 03 is priced from RM119,800 for the two-wheel drive variant, while the more powerful Intelligent Wheel Drive version carries a price tag of RM129,800.

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Photo credits: iCAUR and the author’s own