The Dongfeng Fengon E3 EV 53.6 kWh (163 Hp) is a battery electric vehicle (BEV) SUV produced by the Chinese manufacturer Dongfeng Motor Corporation. Introduced in 2019, the Fengon E3 represents Dongfeng’s entry into the growing electric SUV market, primarily targeted towards consumers seeking a practical and affordable electric vehicle option. It’s positioned as a mainstream offering, aiming to provide a balance of range, performance, and features within a competitive price bracket. The E3 utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration and a single electric motor, making it a relatively straightforward and accessible EV for the Chinese automotive landscape.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DongFeng |
| Model | Fengon E3 |
| Generation | Fengon E3 |
| Type (Engine) | EV 53.6 kWh (163 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 53.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 405 km (251.66 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 163 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 163 Hp |
| System torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Length | 4385 mm (172.64 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2655 mm (104.53 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 180 mm (7.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Dongfeng Fengon E3 is powered by a single synchronous electric motor located transversely at the front of the vehicle. This motor produces 163 horsepower and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque. The power is delivered through a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of most electric vehicles, providing seamless acceleration. The vehicle utilizes a 53.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack positioned under the floor, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The battery pack is designed for a range of up to 405 kilometers (251.66 miles) under optimal driving conditions. The charging port specifications are not widely publicized, but it is expected to support both AC and DC fast charging capabilities, allowing for convenient charging at home or public charging stations.
Driving Characteristics
The Fengon E3 offers a driving experience typical of modern electric vehicles. The instant torque delivery from the electric motor provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 8.5 seconds. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the E3 is adequately powered for everyday driving and urban commutes. The single-speed transmission ensures smooth and linear acceleration without the need for gear changes. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to stable cornering. The regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving in certain conditions, enhancing efficiency and driver convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Dongfeng Fengon E3 is generally offered with a fairly standard equipment list, focusing on practicality and value. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and ABS. Higher trim levels may add features such as a rearview camera, parking sensors, upgraded upholstery, and more advanced infotainment features. Interior materials are generally of acceptable quality for the price point, with a focus on durability and ease of cleaning. The E3 offers seating for five passengers, with a reasonably spacious cabin for its class. Specific trim levels and available options may vary depending on the region and market.
Chassis & Braking
The Fengon E3 utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing safety and stability during emergency braking maneuvers. The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing light and responsive steering feel. The vehicle rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 tires, offering a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dongfeng Fengon E3 has been generally well-received in the Chinese market as an affordable and practical electric SUV. Critics have praised its range, performance, and value for money. However, some have noted that the interior materials and overall refinement are not as high as some of its competitors. Compared to other electric SUVs in its class, such as the BYD Yuan Plus or the GAC Aion Y, the Fengon E3 offers a competitive price point but may lack some of the advanced features and premium materials found in those models. Its fuel economy, measured in kilowatt-hours per 100 kilometers, is comparable to other EVs with similar battery capacities.
Legacy
The Dongfeng Fengon E3 represents an important step for Dongfeng Motor Corporation in its transition towards electric mobility. While it may not be a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of technology or performance, it provides a viable and affordable electric vehicle option for a wide range of consumers. The long-term reliability of the powertrain is still being assessed, but early reports suggest that the electric motor and battery pack are proving to be durable and reliable. As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, the Fengon E3 is likely to be remembered as one of the early mainstream electric SUVs that helped to popularize electric vehicles in China.
