The Weltmeister E5, specifically the 58.6 kWh (163 Hp) Electric variant, represents a relatively short-lived but notable entry into the burgeoning electric vehicle market. Produced between 2021 and 2022, this model aimed to provide a competitive, technologically advanced sedan primarily targeted towards the Chinese domestic market. While not widely exported, the E5 showcased Weltmeister’s ambition to establish itself as a significant player in the new energy vehicle (NEV) sector. It falls within the compact to mid-size sedan segment, offering five-passenger seating and a focus on range and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Weltmeister |
| Model | E5 |
| Generation | E5 |
| Type (Engine) | 58.6 kWh (163 Hp) Electric |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| 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 | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 58.6 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 336.7 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 390 kg (859.8 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 505 km (313.79 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 13.1 kWh/100 km (21.08 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 160 |
| km/kWh | 7.6 |
| mi/kWh | 4.7 |
| Electric motor power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | TZ200XSWMB |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| System torque | 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1649 kg (3635.42 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2024 kg (4462.16 lbs) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4718 mm (185.75 in) |
| Width | 1838 mm (72.36 in) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in) |
| Front track | 1570 mm (61.81 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in) |
| Rear overhang | 995 mm (39.17 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 116 mm (4.57 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 | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 215/60 R17; 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Weltmeister E5 58.6 kWh is powered by a single synchronous electric motor, designated TZ200XSWMB, producing 163 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. This motor is mounted transversely at the front axle, driving the front wheels. The vehicle utilizes a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of most battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The heart of the E5 is its 58.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, operating at 336.7 volts. This battery pack is positioned under the floor of the vehicle, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The battery’s capacity allows for a claimed all-electric range of 505 km (313.79 miles) under optimal driving conditions, with an energy consumption of 13.1 kWh per 100 kilometers (21.08 kWh per 100 miles).
Driving Characteristics
The E5 58.6 kWh delivers adequate performance for urban and highway driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.9 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 8.5 seconds. The single-speed transmission provides seamless acceleration, with the electric motor delivering instant torque. Compared to potential higher-performance variants (which were not widely produced), the 163 hp model prioritizes efficiency and range over outright speed. The front-wheel-drive configuration offers predictable handling, but may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration. The relatively low curb weight of 1649 kg (3635.42 lbs) helps to mitigate the limitations of the front-wheel-drive setup.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Weltmeister E5 58.6 kWh typically came equipped with a standard suite of features including air conditioning, power windows and locks, a touchscreen infotainment system, and basic safety features like ABS. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels, if available, may have included features such as a panoramic sunroof, upgraded sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. The dashboard layout was modern and minimalist, emphasizing the vehicle’s technological focus.
Chassis & Braking
The E5 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs are used at the rear. The electric power steering system offers light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively low ride height (116 mm / 4.57 inches) contributes to its stable handling characteristics. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Weltmeister E5 faced competition from established domestic EV manufacturers in China, such as BYD and NIO, as well as international brands like Tesla. Critics generally praised the E5’s range and efficiency, but noted that its performance and interior quality were not quite on par with some of its rivals. Fuel economy, expressed as 160 MPGe, was a strong selling point. Reliability data is limited due to the short production run and limited export market. However, early reports suggested that the E5 was generally reliable, with the electric powertrain proving to be durable.
Legacy
The Weltmeister E5, while not a long-term success, played a role in the early stages of the electric vehicle revolution in China. The 58.6 kWh variant, with its focus on range and affordability, appealed to a broad range of consumers. Today, the E5 can be found on the used car market, offering a relatively affordable entry point into EV ownership. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains a key factor for potential buyers, and the availability of replacement parts may be a concern. Despite its limited production run, the E5 represents a significant step in Weltmeister’s journey to become a prominent player in the global electric vehicle market.
