ORA confirms a bigger Cat to take on Tesla in UK

ORA has officially revealed its next model to launch into the UK; a fully electric Tesla Model 3 rival.

While there is no official pricing or specification announced for the UK yet, the ‘next model’ is already on sale in China, where it is called the Lightning Cat. This name is not expected to be used in the UK, where there has been a lukewarm reaction to the Funky Cat name used on the firm’s small hatchback.

ORA says the new car’s pricing and specification will be competitive with models such as the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6.

While UK specification is not yet confirmed, it is likely that the saloon will feature an electric range of over 300 miles WLTP and offer both 2WD and 4WD powertrain options. The latter of which will produce around 400PS with 680NM of torque, resulting in a 0-62mph time of just over 4.4 seconds.

The new model is yet to be named, but shares distinctive styling with the Funky Cat

The first 10 customers to place orders for the car will receive a limited edition concept art of the new model and a bottle of champagne in a branded display box. 

In addition to the newly revealed model, ORA UK is planning to launch additional variants of Funky Cat later this year which are expected to offer a bigger battery and more choice, reflecting the models offered on the Irish market.

Speaking about the brand’s new saloon, Toby Marshall, Managing Director, GWM ORA UK said: “The reveal of our next premium electric vehicle in the UK is a really momentous occasion for the brand. It signals the high level of commitment and investment from GWM ORA to establish itself as a leader in multiple segments across the UK. We always knew our first model, ORA Funky Cat, was just the start. There are lots more exciting things to come.”

The car is pitched as a 'premium saloon' and will be priced to rival the Model 3