Fast-growing Chinese EV brand GWM Ora has launched a network of test drive centres in the UK, alongside a new longer-range edition of its Funky Cat electric hatchback.

The First Edition+ joins the existing First Edition but is limited to just 50 units

The new test drive centres are located around the UK and provide additional coverage and support for the brand’s existing retailer network.

Eight centres have initially opened, with more planned for next year and beyond. Each site will offer test drive, sales and service support for GWM Ora’s current and future electric cars models. A resident EV expert will be on hand to answer product-related queries and provide guidance on the benefits of going electric. Following a test drive, customers can then place an order and schedule delivery for the Funky Cat, with lead times ranging between one and two weeks on average.

The sites feature the same corporate identity as the retail facilities but are smaller in size, and bring the total number of GWM Ora to locations to 26.

The all-electric carmaker, which is an offshoot of global automotive giant Great Wall Motor,  has also introduced a new special edition model of the Funky Cat to celebrate one year of its UK operations.

Limited to 50 units, the First Edition+ joins the existing First Edition and increases battery size from 48kWh to 62kWh, giving an official WLTP range of 260 miles compared to 193 miles in the current model. It also adds in features such as heated, cooled and massage front seats, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof and automatic parking assistance. The First Edition+ also gains special edition badging, mats, keys and a Type 2 charging cable.

The brand is also testing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which will be available across the full line-up once the update has gone live.

Sales of the First Edition+ start on 12 October and it’s priced at £33,795.

The electric carmaker also continues to build up to the launch of its next UK model, an electric premium saloon revealed earlier this year and sharing the brand’s “distinctive retro-futuristic design DNA”. Yet to be named for the UK, it’s known as the ‘Lightning Cat’ in China and rivals the Tesla Model 3. The new model is expected to go on sale in Q1 2024, with specifications, pricing and name due to be announced shortly.

Toby Marshall, managing director, GWM Ora UK, commented: “Our First Edition+ special edition model further enhances the fun and excitement of Ora Funky Cat, with even more features and specification. This limited-edition model provides a taster of what is to come, fostering real anticipation for the full model range launch next year.”