“The Chery iCAR V23 redefines budget-friendly electric SUVs with its thoughtful interior design and impressive air quality standards – a perfect blend of style, safety, and sustainability for modern urban commuters.”
1. Door Structure & Safety Innovation
1.1 Stamped Hinges & One-Piece Door Design
The Chery iCAR V23 incorporates stamped door hinges, a lightweight yet durable solution commonly seen in European vehicles. This design ensures smooth operation while maintaining structural integrity. The one-piece stamped frame eliminates weak points, enhancing safety and aligning with modern automotive standards.
1.2 Full-Frame Door Construction
A full-frame stamped design integrates the window frame into the door panel, boosting impact resistance and noise insulation. This construction method creates a quieter, more secure cabin environment.
2. Noise Insulation Excellence
2.1 Large-Area Soundproofing
Behind the door trim panels, steel plates and foam-backed membranes block external noise. High-quality recycled fiber material lines both front and rear doors, effectively absorbing road and wind noise for a serene driving experience.
3. Advanced Safety Features
3.1 Side Impact Protection
Circular steel tubes in front and rear doors act as side impact beams, distributing collision forces evenly. Additional reinforcing ribs enhance door rigidity, ensuring optimal passenger safety during side impacts.
4. Rear Seat Design Considerations
4.1 Lack of Steel Backing Plate
While the omission of a steel reinforcement plate reduces weight, it may compromise protection in rear-end collisions – a common cost-saving measure in budget vehicles.
4.2 Headrest Configuration
Only two headrests are provided, simplifying the layout but reducing neck support for middle-seat passengers. This design choice prioritizes aesthetics over full occupant comfort.
5. Eco-Friendly Floor Materials
5.1 Recycled Fiber Floor Padding
Lightweight, eco-friendly recycled fiber padding is used for flooring. However, minimal wiring harness wrapping with cloth-based tape raises durability concerns over time.
5.2 Formaldehyde Emissions
Rigorous air quality testing revealed formaldehyde levels within China’s safety standards:
- Floor: 0.108 mg/m³
- Seats: 0.027 mg/m³
- Headliner: 0.058 mg/m³
Measured under controlled conditions (23±1°C, 16-hour sealed environment).
6. Air Quality Testing Methodology
6.1 Formaldehyde Detection
Using pump-sampling and phenol reagent spectrophotometry, cabin air was analyzed after 16 hours of sealing. The process involved simulating human breathing patterns for accurate results.
6.2 TVOC Testing
Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) measured at 0.54 mg/m³ using an MP181 detector, below China’s recommended limit of 0.60 mg/m³. This ensures minimal odor and health risks.
7. Interior Air Quality Summary
| Component | Formaldehyde (mg/m³) | TVOC (mg/m³) |
|---|---|---|
| Floor | 0.108 | – |
| Seats | 0.027 | – |
| Headliner | 0.058 | – |
| Cabin Air | 0.028 | 0.54 |
These results confirm the iCAR V23 meets health safety standards under normal conditions.
8. Final Verdict & Recommendations
Priced from $14,000, the Chery iCAR V23 offers retro styling with modern practicality. While cost-cutting measures are evident, its safety features and air quality performance remain competitive. Ideal for young buyers valuing aesthetics and eco-friendliness.
Key Takeaways
- Safety: Robust door structure with simplified rear seat design
- Comfort: Effective noise insulation and spacious cabin
- Eco-Friendly: Low formaldehyde emissions meeting green standards
Why It Stands Out
The iCAR V23 demonstrates that budget EVs can balance style, safety, and sustainability. Its vintage-inspired exterior and clean cabin air make it perfect for urban commuters seeking a unique, practical vehicle.
Note: All test data reflects conditions specific to this vehicle. For detailed comparisons, refer to standardized testing protocols.
