The Seres 3 is a groundbreaking electric vehicle (EV) that has made a significant impact on the global automotive landscape. Developed through a joint technical venture between the renowned Chinese brand DFSK (Dongfeng Sokon) and the RP Group, this EV represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and uncompromising performance.
DongFeng Seres 3 Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Launch | 2023, September |
| Status | Available to order. Released 2024, February |
| Base Price | £30,000 / €35,000 / $37,000 |
| Power | FWD 120 kW (161 hp) |
| Torque | 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 8.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h (96 mph) |
| Battery Capacity | 52 kWh usable, 54 kWh total |
| Battery Technology | Lithium Iron Phosphate 350V (400V type) |
| Range (WLTP) | 330 km (205 miles) |
| Range (NEDC) | 405 km (252 miles) |
| Energy Consumption (NEDC) | 15.8 kWh/100 km |
| Recuperation | Yes, 3 modes |
| Heat Pump | Yes |
| AC Charging | Type 2, 6.6 kW, 100% in 8 hours |
| DC Charging | CCS 100 kW, 20-80% in 30 min |
| Vehicle to Load (V2L) | Yes |
| Body Type | 5 door crossover, 5 seats |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4385 x 1850 x 1650 mm (172.6 x 72.8 x 65.0 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2655 mm (104.5 in) |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm (7.1 in) |
| Unladen Weight (EU) | 1765 kg |
| Gross Weight (EU) | 2065 kg |
| Suspension | Front MacPherson struts, independent torsion beam |
| Wheels | R17, R18 |
| Trunk Capacity (EU) | 383 l, 1422 l max |
| Frunk | No |
| Towing Capacity | No |
| Center Display | 10.3″ touchscreen |
| Driver’s Display | Yes |
| Head-up Display | No |
| Seating | Heated front seats, massage |
| Roof | Panoramic glass roof |
| Parking Aids | Front and rear sensors, 360 camera, reversing camera |
| Connectivity | No Android Auto or Apple CarPlay |
| Airbags | 6 airbags: front, side, rear, head airbag system |
| Driving Aids | Front Collision Warning, Collision Alert, Rear Scattered Alert, Door Open Alert, Pedestrian warning at low speed Collision, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist |
Performance
We were thoroughly impressed by the DongFeng Seres 3’s performance capabilities. Equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) electric motor that delivers 120 kW (161 hp) of power and 195 Nm (144 lb-ft) of torque, this EV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 8.9 seconds, providing a thrilling and responsive driving experience. The top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph) ensures that the Seres 3 can effortlessly navigate highways and urban environments alike.
The vehicle’s instant torque delivery, courtesy of the electric powertrain, provides a seamless and linear acceleration that is both exhilarating and efficient. The three available driving modes (Eco, Sport, and Regular) allow the driver to tailor the performance characteristics to their preferred driving style, further enhancing the overall driving dynamics.
Battery and Charging
At the heart of the DongFeng Seres 3 is a 52 kWh usable (54 kWh total) lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which utilizes a 350V (400V type) architecture. This battery system delivers an impressive WLTP-rated range of 330 km (205 miles) and an even more remarkable NEDC-rated range of 405 km (252 miles), ensuring that the Seres 3 can comfortably handle daily commutes and longer road trips.
The vehicle’s energy efficiency is equally impressive, with a NEDC-rated consumption of just 15.8 kWh/100 km, further contributing to the Seres 3’s overall environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness.
Charging the Seres 3 is a breeze, thanks to its versatile charging capabilities. The EV supports both AC and DC charging, with a standard Type 2 connection that can fully charge the battery in 8 hours at a 6.6 kW AC charging station. For longer journeys, the Seres 3 can take advantage of high-power DC charging, with a CCS connection that can replenish the battery from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes at a 100 kW charging station.
Additionally, the Seres 3 is equipped with a heat pump system, which enhances the vehicle’s efficiency and range in colder climates by optimizing the heating and cooling systems. The EV also features three-stage regenerative braking, allowing the driver to tailor the level of energy recuperation to their driving preferences.
Design and Dimensions
The DongFeng Seres 3 boasts a sleek and modern crossover design that seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics. With its bold front grille, distinctive LED headlights, and sculpted body lines, the Seres 3 exudes a sense of confidence and sophistication that is sure to turn heads on the road.
Measuring 4,385 mm (172.6 in) in length, 1,850 mm (72.8 in) in width, and 1,650 mm (65.0 in) in height, the Seres 3 offers a spacious and practical interior, with a generous wheelbase of 2,655 mm (104.5 in) and a ground clearance of 180 mm (7.1 in). The vehicle’s crossover body style provides a commanding driving position and ample cargo space, with a trunk capacity of 383 liters (13.5 cu ft) that can be expanded to 1,422 liters (50.3 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down.
The Seres 3 is available with a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels, which not only enhance the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its overall stability and handling characteristics.
Infotainment and Displays
The DongFeng Seres 3’s interior is equipped with a comprehensive infotainment system, centered around a 10.3-inch touchscreen display. This intuitive and responsive interface provides access to a range of features, including navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings. While the Seres 3 does not currently offer support for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the built-in system offers a user-friendly experience and seamless integration with the vehicle’s various functions.
In addition to the central touchscreen, the Seres 3 also features a dedicated driver’s display, providing essential information such as speed, battery level, and driving mode directly within the driver’s line of sight. This dual-display setup enhances the overall driving experience by ensuring that critical information is easily accessible.
Comfort and Convenience
The Seres 3’s interior is designed with the driver and passengers’ comfort in mind. The front seats are equipped with heating and massage functions, providing a luxurious and relaxing experience, even during longer journeys. The panoramic glass roof further enhances the sense of spaciousness and allows natural light to flood the cabin, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
For added convenience, the Seres 3 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of parking aids, including front and rear sensors, a 360-degree camera, and a reversing camera. These features make maneuvering the vehicle in tight spaces and parking situations a breeze.
While the Seres 3 does not currently offer support for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, the vehicle’s built-in connectivity features still provide a range of useful functions, such as remote access, over-the-air updates, and integration with the owner’s smartphone.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for the DongFeng Seres 3, and the vehicle is equipped with a robust suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and passive safety features.
The Seres 3 boasts a total of six airbags, including front, side, rear, and a head airbag system, providing comprehensive protection for the occupants in the event of a collision.
The ADAS features include Front Collision Warning, Collision Alert, Rear Scattered Alert, Door Open Alert, Pedestrian warning at low speed Collision, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. These systems work together to enhance the vehicle’s safety and help the driver navigate the road with greater confidence.
Conclusion
The Seres 3 is a remarkable electric vehicle that has set a new standard in the crossover segment. With its impressive performance, long-range capabilities, and comprehensive suite of features, the Seres 3 has the potential to redefine the way we think about electric mobility.
The vehicle’s joint development between DFSK and the RP Group has resulted in a product that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and uncompromising quality. The Seres 3’s impact on the global EV market is undeniable, as it showcases the potential for Chinese automakers to compete on the world stage and push the boundaries of what is possible in the electric vehicle space.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Seres 3 stands as a testament to the rapid advancements in EV technology and the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. With its combination of performance, efficiency, and practicality, the Seres 3 is poised to leave a lasting impression on the electric vehicle landscape and inspire future generations of eco-friendly automobiles.
