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Ora 5 Crossover Leaked as Good Cat SUV

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Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Key takeaways:

  • The Ora Cat (also known as Ora 5 or Ora i5) is GWM Ora's highly anticipated new model, breaking a two-year silence since the Ora 07.
  • It is a distinct crossover SUV, significantly larger than the Ora Good Cat (Funky Cat/03), not just a facelift.
  • Despite design similarities, the Ora Cat features unique identifiers like roof rails, conventional door handles, and a larger footprint.
  • Propelled by a 201 hp electric motor and SVOLT LFP battery, it's poised for an imminent launch in the Chinese market.
  • This new model signifies Ora's expansion into the popular crossover segment, offering more space and versatility for EV enthusiasts.

Table of contents:


The Long Silence Ends: Ora's Electrifying Return

Has GWM just unveiled a new era for its beloved Ora brand, or is it a familiar face in a bold new suit? For two years, the Great Wall Motor (GWM) Ora EV brand has been notably quiet, especially in the fast-paced Chinese electric vehicle market where annual updates are the norm. This silence, following the 2022 launch of the Ora 07 (also known as the Lightning Cat), left many wondering about the brand's next move. Now, the waiting game is over. GWM is back in the spotlight, and we're thrilled to Get an exclusive first look at the GWM Ora 5 SUV crossover, exposed via MIIT filings in China. See if this is the rumored Good Cat SUV version. This highly anticipated reveal marks a significant moment, with GWM introducing a new model known as the Ora Cat, set to hit global markets as the Ora 5 or Ora i5.

The question on every EV enthusiast's mind is clear: Is this truly a revolutionary step for Ora, or simply an evolution of a cherished design? Our deep dive into the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) documents from China reveals a fascinating story, confirming that the Ora Cat is far more than just a refreshed version of its popular sibling. This article will dissect the official filings, unveil the Ora Cat's distinct identity, explore its design nuances, analyze its significant size increase, and offer a glimpse into its market implications, helping you understand whether this new electric crossover is the perfect fit for your urban adventures.


Is It a Good Cat? Unpacking the Ora Cat's Identity

For those familiar with Ora's charm, the first glance at the Ora Cat might evoke a strong sense of déjà vu. The official MIIT documents confirm that the Ora Cat boasts a design strikingly similar to the widely popular Ora Good Cat—known also as the Ora Funky Cat or Ora 03 in various markets. However, here's where the plot thickens: the Ora Cat is not merely a facelift or a reinterpretation of the Good Cat. It's engineered from the ground up as a dedicated crossover or SUV. This fundamental difference sets it apart from the Good Cat, which is a full-fledged hatchback. This strategic move by GWM underscores a commitment to diversifying its EV portfolio, offering consumers a more versatile and spacious option in the rapidly growing electric SUV segment. This means while it carries the beloved aesthetic, it's designed to cater to a different set of needs, potentially offering more utility and presence on the road. This isn't just a bigger Good Cat; it's a new breed of electric crossover.


Design Evolution: Familiar Charm, SUV Edge

Iconic Aesthetics with a Crossover Twist

The Ora Cat confidently retains the adorable, Porsche 911-inspired styling that has become Ora's signature. The iconic circular headlights, a beloved feature, remain front and center, lending it an unmistakable playful yet sophisticated look. Similarly, the front bumper, complete with its two vertical air vents on the sides, is carried over, as is the horizontal LED light strip integrated into the rear glass panel. However, closer inspection reveals subtle distinctions. Slight variations are visible in the cut-out design for the rear license plate and the lower part of the bumper, which now sports a diffuser-like appearance. These differences are finely tuned and might be challenging to spot without a side-by-side comparison, yet they contribute to the Ora Cat's unique character as a modern electric crossover. This blend of familiarity and novelty is a clever design strategy, appealing to existing Ora fans while signaling a fresh direction.

Spotting the SUV Clues: More Than Meets the Eye

Beyond the subtle aesthetic tweaks, the Ora Cat incorporates several key features that unmistakably stamp its identity as an SUV. One of the easiest ways to differentiate it from the Good Cat is the presence of roof rails—a hallmark of utility and adventure typically associated with SUV vehicles. This functional addition not only enhances its rugged appeal but also offers practical benefits for active lifestyles, such as mounting bike racks or cargo carriers. Other notable characteristics include conventional door handles (deviating from the pop-up style seen on some other models), a charging flap conveniently located on the front right fender, stylish 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, and the intriguing option for LiDAR sensors, indicating advanced technological capabilities and a forward-thinking approach to safety and autonomous driving features. These elements collectively affirm its role as a robust and modern electric SUV, distinct from its hatchback counterpart, and clearly position it as a formidable contender in the evolving EV landscape.


Size Matters: A True Crossover Transformation

Perhaps the most compelling evidence that the Ora Cat is a standalone model, rather than a mere Good Cat variant, lies in its dimensions. According to the MIIT documents, the Ora Cat measures an impressive 4,471 mm in length, 1,883 mm in width, and 1,641 mm in height. To put this into perspective, the new model is a substantial 236 mm longer, 58 mm wider, and 45 mm taller than the Good Cat. Furthermore, its wheelbase is also significantly extended to 2,720 mm—an addition of 70 mm. This substantial increase in size is crucial; it means the Ora Cat offers considerably more interior space, likely translating to enhanced passenger comfort and cargo capacity, making it a highly attractive option for families or those needing extra room for their journeys. It definitively confirms that the Ora Cat is not just a Good Cat morphed into an SUV; it has been genuinely built as a larger, more capacious new model designed to meet the demands of the crossover segment. Its approach and departure angles are recorded at 17 and 25 degrees respectively, with a curb weight estimated between 1,630 to 1,655 kg depending on the variant, underscoring its robust build.


Powering the Future: Ora Cat's Performance Snapshot

Beneath its elegantly sculpted exterior, the Ora Cat houses a dynamic electric powertrain designed for efficient and responsive performance. It is powered by a single electric motor, developed by GWM's subsidiary, Hycet, delivering a respectable 201 hp (150 kW). This power unit receives its energy from an LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack, supplied by SVOLT, another key player in the GWM ecosystem. LFP batteries are known for their enhanced safety, longer cycle life, and cost-effectiveness, making them an excellent choice for mainstream electric vehicles. While detailed range figures are yet to be officially disclosed, this setup promises a reliable and satisfying driving experience for urban commuters and long-distance travelers alike. With all these specifications now public, the Ora Cat appears fully prepared for market entry, and its official launch in China is anticipated to happen in the very near future. This performance snapshot positions the Ora Cat as a competitive entrant in the mid-range electric crossover market, ready to offer both style and substance to its drivers.


What About the Good Cat? A Glimpse into its Future

While the spotlight is firmly on the new Ora Cat, GWM hasn't forgotten its beloved Ora Good Cat. In fact, the Good Cat has already received a stylistic update in the Chinese market this year, keeping its design fresh and appealing. While this facelifted version may not immediately make its way outside of China, global markets still have a compelling option in the form of the Good Cat GT. This sportier variant offers a more aggressive aesthetic and enhanced features, providing a realistic and exciting alternative for international consumers who adore the Good Cat's charm but desire a bit more flair. GWM's dual strategy ensures that both existing fans and new customers have compelling electric options to choose from, solidifying Ora's presence across different segments of the growing EV landscape.


Conclusion: Ora's Bold New Chapter

The unveiling of the GWM Ora Cat (Ora 5/Ora i5) through the MIIT filings marks a pivotal moment for the Ora brand and the broader electric vehicle market. Far from being a mere variant, this new model stands as a distinct, larger, and more versatile crossover SUV, answering the market's demand for spacious yet stylish electric mobility solutions. With its familiar charm, significant size upgrade, and competent electric powertrain, the Ora Cat is poised to carve out its own niche. It embodies Ora's commitment to innovation and expansion, offering a compelling choice for consumers seeking a practical yet adorable electric SUV for their daily commutes and weekend adventures.

What are your thoughts on this exciting new chapter for Ora? Will the Ora Cat/Ora 5 redefine urban electric mobility for you? Share your predictions in the comments below, and let us know which features excite you most! Don't forget to explore our other deep dives into the EV market and upcoming model releases.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the Ora Cat/Ora 5?
A1: The Ora Cat, also known as Ora 5 or Ora i5 in other markets, is a brand-new electric crossover SUV developed by GWM Ora. It is a distinct model, not merely a facelift or a variant of the Ora Good Cat hatchback.

Q2: How does the Ora Cat differ from the Ora Good Cat?
A2: The Ora Cat is significantly larger in all dimensions (length, width, height, and wheelbase) compared to the Ora Good Cat. It is built as a crossover SUV, whereas the Good Cat is a hatchback. Key differentiators include the Ora Cat's roof rails and conventional door handles.

Q3: What are the key dimensions of the Ora Cat?
A3: The Ora Cat measures 4,471 mm long, 1,883 mm wide, and 1,641 mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm. This makes it substantially larger than the Good Cat.

Q4: When will the Ora Cat/Ora 5 be available?
A4: The Ora Cat is expected to be launched in China in the near future, following its official exposure through MIIT filings. Global availability and timelines are yet to be announced.

Q5: What are the power specifications of the Ora Cat?
A5: The Ora Cat is powered by a single electric motor from Hycet (a GWM subsidiary) producing 201 hp (150 kW). It utilizes an LFP battery pack supplied by SVOLT.

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