Ora Funky Cat part of 12 new cars GWM is bringing to SA this year

GWM SA is readying for a big year, promising to launch 12 new vehicles in 2023.

Great Wall Motors, or GWM as it’s more commonly known, is readying for a big 2023. The Chinese giant has used much of last year to plot and plan how the new year would play out, with an electrification strategy forming part of it.

In a recent interview, GWM COO Conrad Groenewald confirmed that GWM and its subsidiaries will enhance its product offering and cater to the South African market in a more diverse manner.

So, what’s coming in 2023?

According to Groenewald, GWM, with its subsidiary Haval, will launch a total of 12 new vehicles in 2023. The COO was rather coy about what South Africans can expect, but he confirmed that two divisions will join the fray.

Tank and Ora will join Haval as subsidiaries, with GWM still the mothership.

For Tank, locals can expect the Tank 300 and Tank 500: off-road SUVs that will speak to South Africans’ adventurous side.

Ora is GWM’s electric vehicle (EV) side, with the high-end Funky Cat definitely destined for our side. This car is powered by a 48kWh Lithium Ion battery offering 126kW and 250Nm. 0-100km/h needs only 8.3 seconds, while top speed is an expected 160km/h. The Ora Funky Cat has a driving range of 150km.

Groenewald said: “I cannot wait for these products to come to South Africa. It is perfectly geared for the South African lifestyle.”