BH CORRESPONDENT, Kolkata: The Geneva Auto Saloon is just a few days away and quite a few carmakers have been busy trickle-feeding teasers. While this is regular fare, all eyes will be on the new brands that are going to debut from far East, China in particular.
Shanghai-based start-up Chinese manufacturer Aiways said that it will showcase the U6ion compact coupe concept at the show, in addition to introducing the U5 hybrid SUV for European markets.
The teaser images of the concept indicate that the car is likely to be a stunner – and why not? After all, it has been designed under the tutelage of Ken Okuyama. Ferrari Enzo designer and former design head of Pininfarina.
Working with the Aiways internal teams from his studio in Japan, Ken Okuyama has been working with the Chinese EV brand Aiways. In late 2018, he was named Chief Advisor of Design & Art, and his influence at the start-up is already being felt with products like the U7ion.
For now, it will be regarded as a design concept as Aiways hasn’t released much details other than the fact that it is built on the same MAS (More Adaptable Structure) aluminium steel frame.
Like the production U5, the U6ion is battery-powered and will provide all-electric propulsion only.
Aiways chief designer Dongfei Luo said:“The U6ion sketches present a crossover coupe with a harmonious and exciting body shape, aimed at attracting young car users looking for a zero-emission SUV that offers style, practicality and electric performance.”
The company statement also added that the company has created a form language which “embodies the ‘intelligent and simplified technology’ at the heart of AIWAYS product development ethos.”
