2018 Gleagle EV K17A 20 kWh (48 Hp)

The Gleagle EV K17A 20 kWh (48 hp) is a fully electric hatchback produced by the Chinese manufacturer Gleagle, beginning in 2018. Positioned as an entry-level electric vehicle, the K17A aimed to provide affordable personal transportation within the rapidly expanding Chinese EV market. It represents one of Gleagle’s early forays into all-electric propulsion, leveraging a relatively small battery pack for cost-effectiveness and urban usability. The K17A is a five-door, five-seat hatchback designed primarily for city commuting and short-distance travel. It’s important to note that Gleagle, a subsidiary of Geely, primarily focuses on the Chinese domestic market, and export numbers for the K17A have been limited.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The Gleagle EV K17A utilizes a purely electric powertrain, foregoing any internal combustion engine components. The heart of the system is a 20 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, providing the energy storage for the electric motor. The electric motor itself produces 48 horsepower and 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) of torque. Details regarding the specific type of lithium-ion chemistry used (e.g., NMC, LFP) are not widely publicized. The vehicle employs a front-wheel-drive configuration. The powertrain is a direct-drive system, meaning there is no traditional multi-speed transmission; the electric motor delivers power directly to the wheels. The battery pack is likely air-cooled, a common cost-saving measure in entry-level EVs. Charging is accomplished via a standard charging port, with charging times varying depending on the voltage and amperage of the charging source. The K17A’s electrical architecture is relatively simple, prioritizing affordability over advanced features like rapid charging capabilities.

Driving Characteristics

With only 48 horsepower, the EV K17A’s performance is geared towards urban driving rather than high-speed acceleration. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is estimated to be well over 15 seconds. The immediate torque delivery characteristic of electric motors provides adequate responsiveness for merging into traffic and navigating city streets. The single-speed transmission means there are no gear changes, resulting in a smooth, linear power delivery. The relatively low weight of the vehicle (1170 kg / 2579.41 lbs) helps to mitigate the limited horsepower. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. The range of 151 km (93.83 miles) is sufficient for daily commutes and errands, but may require frequent charging for longer journeys. Compared to other EVs, the K17A’s performance is significantly lower, but it’s competitive within its price bracket.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Gleagle EV K17A, being an entry-level model, features a relatively basic equipment list. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system (likely with AM/FM radio and potentially Bluetooth connectivity), and standard safety equipment such as airbags and anti-lock brakes. Interior upholstery is typically cloth. Higher trim levels, if offered, may include features like a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior materials. The dashboard design is functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetic appeal. Optional extras were likely limited, focusing on items like different exterior colors or minor cosmetic enhancements.

Chassis & Braking

The EV K17A utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension system at the front, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, a cost-effective solution commonly found in compact hatchbacks. The braking system consists of disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The tires are 175/65 R15, a common size for compact cars, prioritizing fuel efficiency and ride comfort over grip. The steering system is likely a conventional power steering setup, providing light and easy steering effort.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Gleagle EV K17A was primarily targeted at the Chinese domestic market, where it competed with other entry-level electric vehicles. Reviews within China generally praised the K17A’s affordability and practicality for urban commuting. However, criticisms often centered around its limited range, basic interior, and relatively low performance. Compared to other EVs available in China at the time, the K17A offered a competitive price point but lacked the advanced features and longer range of more expensive models. Fuel economy, expressed as energy consumption, is rated at 13.2 kWh/100 km, translating to approximately 159 MPGe. Reliability reports are limited due to the vehicle’s primarily domestic market focus, but early indications suggest that the powertrain is generally reliable.

Legacy

The Gleagle EV K17A represents an early step in Gleagle’s transition to electric vehicle production. While not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of technology or performance, it played a role in making electric mobility more accessible to a wider range of consumers in China. The K17A’s simple design and relatively robust powertrain contribute to its potential for long-term reliability. On the used car market in China, the K17A remains an affordable option for those seeking a basic electric vehicle for short-distance travel. Its legacy lies in demonstrating the feasibility of producing a low-cost EV and paving the way for Gleagle’s future electric vehicle offerings.