GWM Ora 03: The UK’s Cheapest Electric Car Gets Even More Affordable
The GWM Ora 03 has cemented its position as one of the most affordable electric cars in the UK, with a significant price drop to £21,245. This move comes after the Chinese automaker reduced the model’s price by £3750 to align with the UK government’s new Electric Car Grant.
Announced recently, the Electric Car Grant (ECG) offers discounts of either £3750 or £1500 on new electric vehicles priced below £37,000. The eligibility for these discounts is contingent on factors such as the environmental impact of the energy grid in the countries where the EVs are produced and where their batteries are manufactured. Additionally, manufacturers must be part of the Science Based Targets Initiative to qualify for the grant.
Industry experts have noted that these criteria could potentially exclude Chinese EVs from receiving any grants, favoring vehicles made in the UK and Europe. However, the government has not yet released a list of approved models that qualify for the ECG.
In response to this development, some Chinese brands have introduced their own £3750 discounts on their electric vehicles. Leapmotor was among the first to offer this discount on their T03 city car, making it the most affordable EV available in the UK. Following suit, GWM has now reduced the price of the Ora 03 to £21,245.
With this price adjustment, the Ora 03 now undercuts competitors such as the Citroën ë-C3, Renault 5, and Hyundai Inster. However, the final pricing comparison will depend on the government’s list of approved models for the ECG.
The mid-range Ora 03 Pro, boasting a 260-mile range, is now priced at £25,245, while the range-topping Ora 03 GT is available for £29,245.
GWM has also highlighted that the discount can be utilized as a deposit contribution for a PCP finance deal, making it easier for buyers to access 0% APR rates with a smaller upfront payment.
It is evident that this price adjustment is aimed at boosting sales of the Ora 03, which has faced challenges in gaining traction since its UK debut in late 2022 as the Ora Funky Cat. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, GWM’s sales in the UK have decreased significantly this year compared to the same period in 2024.
