Looks like Malaysians will be spoiled for choice when it comes to electric vehicles (EVs), especially those within the entry-level range. Making its local debut during the 2023 Malaysia Auto Show this week is Chinese car brand Neta, which has officially launched its Neta V subcompact crossover EV for the local market via Intro Synergy, a subsidiary of GoAuto Group. This particular model is so far the most affordable EV yet, coming in with a sub-RM 10K price tag.

Available in Sakura Pink, White Storm, Sky Blue, Cyan and Midnight Gray finishes, the Neta V measures 4070 mm long, 1690 mm wide, 1540 mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2420 mm. With these numbers, it is definitely one of the smallest within the crossover EV segment, though its extended rear does offer you with an estimated 335 litres of boot space. On that note, unlike some EVs from other manufacturers, there’s no storage compartment under its hood up front.

Other external features that are offered include 16-inch alloy wheels with 185/55 profile tyres, automatic halogen projector headlamps, LED DRLs, and LED tail lights. Inside the newly launched electric vehicle are leatherette seat upholstery, a 12-inch digital instrument panel, a vertical 14.6-inch central touchscreen infotainment interface, automatic air-conditioning with HEPA N95 filter, a six-speaker sound system, and three USB ports (a data + charge in front, a dashcam port under the rearview mirror, and a charging-only port in the back). Additionally, it also comes with keyless entry and start, as well as wireless or wired smartphone screen casting capability on the aforementioned infotainment display.

In terms of internals, onboard the Neta V is a ternary 38.54 kWh battery powering its front-mounted electric motor, which is claimed to provide 70 kW (94 hp), 150 Nm of torque, and 380 km of range based on the NEDC standard. According to the company, the EV is capable of hitting 0 – 50 km/h in 3.9 seconds, and achieve a top speed of 120 km/h. For charging, it supports 100 kW DC (CCS2) fast charging and 6.6 kW AC (Type 2), which allows for a full battery top-up in just 30 minutes or eight hours respectively.

For its onboard safety features, the newly launched car comes with two airbags in front, and numerous systems such as ABS, EBD, brake assist, traction control, ESC, hill start assist, tyre pressure monitor and cruise control. Granted, these offerings are somewhat lacking when compared to other similar vehicles in the market, though keep in mind that it is an entry-level EV afterall.

With that, we now arrive at its pricing. Scheduled to be delivered in Malaysia during the third quarter of 2023, the new Neta V will retail at RM 99,900 on-the-road without insurance which, as mentioned earlier, makes it the most affordable EV for the local market to date. Those interested can book the car online for RM1,000 via Neta’s official website. Additionally, as a special promotion to commemorate its launch, the company is offering the first 100 potential buyers to receive a cash voucher worth RM 10,000, further knocking down the Neta V’s price to RM 89,800.