When switching the ignition on (at the press of the button, of course), it makes absolutely no sound. It’s exactly like turning the TV set on. The only tell is the screen panel in front of the driver’s seat that lights up. And you’re ready to go.
Forthing Friday, one of the three offerings from Dongfeng launched a few months ago, is probably the best-looking of them.
You can tell by the looks you get on the street. It announces its presence through its shiny, sleek bonnet.
There’s no menacing front grille — because hey, there’s no combustion engine from which to vent. It runs on 100 percent electricity.
On one full charge, this particular unit, the European version of the best-seller, can reach an estimated 630 kilometers in one charge.
But the specs are better left for the brand flyers. It’s the driving experience that truly counts, especially when it comes to driving an EV car which is by and large an entirely new world for Filipinos.
The driver’s seat is practically a massage chair with eases your lower and middle back while on the wheel — the better to calm you down with all the stresses of traffic jams and holiday rush.
It has color selection for cabin lighting system. But you’d quickly forget it when you discover the sun/moon roof which extends all the way back. And in the evening, it has images of stars that glitter in, yes, the colors of your choosing.
Both seats are like bucket-seats of a race car which complements the sporty exterior. All seats are made of smooth and soft “tropicalized leather.”
It also has the features of most modern cars like cameras that allow you to navigate through tight traffic and fit into parking spaces.
Charging ports are everywhere and air-condition louvers can be adjusted either manually or via touchscreen.
It seats five which allows for a roomy trunk. The ride is buttery and handling pure. The price for this particular variant: P2.5 million.
Hey, quality does not come cheap.
