Buick has officially entered the Ultium era as the brand has launched the Electra E5 in China.
Originally introduced last year, the electric crossover sports a “pure” design inspired by the Electra-X concept. As a result, the model has streamlined styling, flush-mounted door handles, and Buick’s controversial new face. Buyers will also find the new tri-shield emblem and 18- or 20-inch wheels.
In terms of size, the Electra E5 measures 192.6 inches (4,892 mm) long, 75 inches (1,905 mm) wide, and 65.2 inches (1,655 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 116.3 inches (2,954 mm). To put those numbers into perspective, the model effectively slots in between the Envision and Enclave.
More: Buick Electra E5 Debuts In China As An Ultium-Based Electric Luxury Crossover
Buyers looking for something more exclusive can opt for the Electra E5 Avenir. It’s the first time the upscale trim has been offered on an electric vehicle, and the flagship is distinguished by a flashier exterior with Gavanolo chrome trim as well as “crystal diamond digital headlights.”
Bigger changes occur in the cabin as the Avenir sports contrasting blue accents for a “composed, noble temperament.” They’re joined by Avenir-branded sill plates, a suede/microfiber headliner, and special front seats with embroidered headrests.
Speaking of the interior, drivers sit behind a 30-inch curved display that combines a digital instrument cluster with an infotainment system. Buick didn’t say much about it, but it features voice and gesture recognition technology as well as “upgraded navigation.” Users will also be able to access audio and video content.
Putting the display aside, the model sports a floating center console, hidden air vents, and a 121-color ambient lighting system. They’re joined by wood and metallic trim. The model also has a frunk as well as up to 58.6 cubic feet (1,658 liters) of storage space in the cargo compartment.
Two Batteries And Up To 385 Miles Of Range
On the performance front, there are standard and long range battery packs. A 68.4 kWh battery comes standard and it provides up to 339 miles (545 km) of range in the CLTC cycle. Long range variants have a larger 79.7 kWh battery and it increases the range up to 385 miles (620 km). When the battery is low, a fast charger can take it from 30-80% in approximately 28 minutes.
Performance specs are a bit perplexing, but the standard range model has a front-mounted electric motor developing 241 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) of torque. This enables it to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.6 seconds.
The long range model comes with a weaker 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) electric motor and it conspires with the beefier battery to lower the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 8.6 seconds. However, the top speed remains unchanged at 112 mph (180 km/h).
Customers looking for more performance can upgrade to the Electra E5 Avenir, which has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that appears to have a combined output of 283 hp (211 kW / 287 PS) and 343 lb-ft (465 Nm) of torque. Regardless of the output, the crossover can hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.7 seconds and travel 375 miles (603 km) on a single charge thanks to its 79.7 kWh battery pack.
When it’s time to get behind the wheel, customers will find a one-pedal driving mode as well as a Regen-on-Demand paddle like in the Cadillac Lyriq. Speaking of Cadillac tech, the Electra E5 will be the first Buick in China to offer enhanced Super Cruise.
Pricing starts at ¥208,900 ($30,412) and climbs to ¥278,900 ($40,603) for the range-topping Avenir.
More Buick EVs On The Horizon
Besides talking about the Electra E5, Buick confirmed a second Ultium-based EV will be introduced in China in the middle of this year. That’s presumably the Electra E4, which was recently spotted undergoing testing in the United States.
Three other Ultium-based models will follow as the company said, “by the end of 2025, Buick will have five Ultium products in its lineup.” The brand didn’t go into specifics, but stated the lineup will consist of sedans and MPVs as well as crossovers like the E4 and E5.
