How Does the GWM Ora 03 Suddenly Rank Among the UK’s Cheapest Electric Cars?
If you’ve been eyeing an electric car but balked at the price tags, you’re not alone. The landscape just shifted, though, thanks to a bold move from GWM (Great Wall Motors). The Ora 03, a compact EV from the Chinese automaker, now sits among the UK’s most affordable electric cars. How did this happen? It’s all about a timely price cut and a bit of strategic maneuvering around government incentives.
What’s Behind the New Price Drop for the Ora 03?
Let’s get right to the numbers. GWM slashed the Ora 03’s price by £3,750, bringing the entry-level model down to £21,245. That’s a significant drop from its previous £24,995 sticker. The timing isn’t random—this move matches the UK government’s new Electric Car Grant (ECG), which offers up to £3,750 off new EVs priced below £37,000.
But here’s where it gets interesting. The ECG isn’t a blanket discount for every EV. To qualify, a car must meet a few criteria: it needs to be assembled in a country with a relatively clean energy grid, its batteries must also come from such a country, and the manufacturer must be signed up to the Science Based Targets Initiative. These requirements have sparked debate, with some industry insiders suggesting they’re designed to favor UK and European-made cars over Chinese imports.
How Are Chinese Brands Responding to the Grant’s Restrictions?
Rather than wait to see if their models make the government’s approved list, some Chinese brands are taking matters into their own hands. Leapmotor was first out of the gate, discounting its T03 city car to become the UK’s cheapest EV. GWM quickly followed suit with the Ora 03, ensuring it remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.
This proactive approach means the Ora 03 now undercuts rivals like the Citroën ë-C3 (£22,095), Renault 5 (£22,995), and Hyundai Inster (£23,505)—at least for now. Once the government publishes its official list of ECG-eligible cars, those competitors might drop their prices further, but GWM’s move gives it a head start in the affordability race.
What Do the Different Ora 03 Models Offer for the Money?
GWM didn’t just cut the base model’s price. The mid-range Ora 03 Pro, which boasts an impressive 260-mile range, now starts at £25,245. The range-topping Ora 03 GT has also seen a price drop, landing at £29,245. For buyers considering finance, GWM is sweetening the deal even more—the discount can be used as a deposit contribution on a PCP finance plan, letting you access 0% APR rates with a smaller upfront payment.
Is the Ora 03 Actually Selling in the UK?
Despite its competitive pricing and quirky design, the Ora 03 hasn’t exactly been flying off UK forecourts. Since its launch in late 2022 (originally as the Ora Funky Cat), sales have lagged. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, GWM sold just 193 cars in the UK during the first half of this year—a sharp drop from 895 in the same period last year.
There are a few reasons for this. Brand recognition is still low, and some buyers remain wary of Chinese EVs, despite their growing reputation for value and tech. The market is also crowded, with established players like Renault and Hyundai offering their own affordable electric options.
How Does the Ora 03 Stack Up Against the Competition?
On paper, the Ora 03 is a strong contender. It’s stylish, well-equipped, and now significantly cheaper than many rivals. The mid-range Pro model’s 260-mile range is competitive, especially for city dwellers or commuters. And with the GT version dropping below £30,000, buyers get a sporty trim without breaking the bank.
However, the final verdict will depend on how the government’s ECG list shakes out. If rivals like the Citroën ë-C3 or Renault 5 become eligible for the full grant, they could leapfrog the Ora 03 in terms of value. For now, though, GWM’s aggressive pricing puts real pressure on the competition.
What Should Buyers Watch for Next?
If you’re in the market for an affordable EV, now’s a great time to keep an eye on the Ora 03—and its rivals. The government’s official list of ECG-approved cars could trigger another round of price adjustments across the board. And as more manufacturers sign up to sustainability initiatives, the pool of eligible models may expand.
For buyers, the takeaway is clear: the era of the sub-£22,000 electric car is here, and competition is only heating up. Whether you’re drawn to the Ora 03’s unique styling or just want the best deal, it’s worth taking a closer look at what’s on offer. The market is shifting fast, and those willing to act quickly could snag a real bargain.