There are cars that blend into the background, and then there are cars like the Deepal E07 that stand out.
From the moment it rolls into view, the E07 commands attention with its futuristic styling and proportions that challenge what an SUV should look like. Deepal calls the E07 a multi-truck, a fitting name for a vehicle that blends the qualities of an SUV, a ute, and a luxury EV into one.
It is, in short, a vehicle destined to start conversations. In our week cruising around Melbourne and further afield, it never failed to draw the attention of nearly everyone we passed.
Those conversations will inevitably turn to astonishment once pricing is revealed.
The E07 starts at $64,900 before on-road costs for the rear-wheel drive variant, while the dual-motor all-wheel drive version is priced at $73,900 before on-road costs.
Considering the level of technology, comfort, versatility and performance on offer, these figures represent remarkable value.
The design manages to be bold without straying into gimmick territory. Clean surfacing and sharp lines lend the E07 a sense of purpose, while unique touches like the illuminated rear light bar and smooth front fascia establish its identity firmly in the EV era.
Soft-touch surfaces, precise stitching, and a refined and considered design reflect a level of craftsmanship that could have European manufacturers looking sideways.
Even in the details, there is a sense of originality. The indicator stalks, shaped like the Deepal logo with a subtle triangular form, have a wonderfully damped feel.
It is a small detail, but the unique style combined with a satisfying, well-damped action is just one example of the thought and care that has gone into the design and build of the Deepal E07.
Step inside, and the E07’s interior feels every bit as much of a private lounge as a premium SUV cabin. Materials are plush, and the atmosphere is decidedly upmarket.
Nobody will feel the need to fight for the front seat either, as even rear seat passengers are treated to electrically adjustable seats with the same heating, ventilation and massage features – a rarity with even high-priced luxury SUVs.
Dominating the cabin is a vast central 15.4-inch infotainment display. Unlike conventional fixed displays, this one rotates horizontally to face either the driver or passenger.
The cleverness doesn’t end there. If the driver steps out and the passenger interacts with the system, the display automatically pivots toward them. It is a subtle touch, but a clever one.
In the modern world of artificial intelligence, in-car technology that recognises contextual intent and adapts to it, rather than forcing occupants to work around, is great to see in production.
It features wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, bringing your calls, maps, music and messaging to the big screen too.
Complementing the central screen is a large head-up display (HUD) that projects crisp and detailed information into the driver’s line of sight.
Adding to the sense of openness, a panoramic roof spans the cabin, making every journey feel more immersive in the environment around you.
All of this would be for naught if the E07 did not deliver on the road. Thankfully, it does. In fact, it excels.
Power is immediate, and in the case of the dual-motor AWD version, prodigious. With 440kW on tap, the E07 sprints from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.96 seconds, which puts it in the realm of high-end performance cars.
Yet outright pace is only part of the story.
The chassis has been tuned with equal focus on comfort and control; the adaptive air suspension and adaptive damping system work in tandem to keep body movements in check, and the ride is comfortable and compliant.
The steering is accurate and well-weighted, which instils confidence whether threading through city streets or enjoying an open country road.
Noise insulation is excellent, allowing only a distant whisper of the outside world into the cabin. The result is a drive that feels serene when you want it, and thrilling when you ask for it.
With the rear seats in place, cargo capacity stands at 524 litres, expanding to 1654 litres when folded flat. Boot length measures 941mm with the rear bulkhead closed, stretching to 1543mm when open, making it highly usable for a variety of loads.
All of this happens electrically, with buttons in the cargo area as well as controls within the infotainment display, making the transformation literally as easy as pressing a button.
Ground clearance is adjustable too, with low, medium and high settings of 133mm, 183mm and 223mm, allowing the E07 to adapt to everything from low-slung efficiency driving to tackling uneven off-road tracks.
In day-to-day use, the E07 shines because it refuses to be siloed into an existing category. Monday to Friday, it is a quiet, refined commuter.
Come the weekend, it transforms into a practical utility, hauling a load of supplies from Bunnings or plants from the nursery.
When holidays roll around, it’s the ideal long-distance tourer, complete with massaging seats and a cinematic surround sound system.
Its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability even allows it to power appliances directly from its battery. From running a coffee machine at a picnic spot to powering tools at a worksite.
This multi-talented character is precisely what makes the E07 so compelling. It isn’t just another SUV or another electric car; it is an entirely new take on mobility.
One of the lingering concerns about EV ownership is range anxiety, but the E07 is specified to ease those concerns.
It offers up to 640km of driving range (NEDC) on a single charge of the RWD variant, meaning less time worrying about charging and more time enjoying the drive and getting things done.
Fast-charging capability ensures that when a top-up is needed, it can be accomplished quickly and conveniently.
The E07 supports 240kW DC fast charging, allowing a 30–80 per cent top-up in as little as 15 minutes. For those with busy lifestyles, that means less time tethered to a charger and more time enjoying the drive and getting things done.
With 7kW AC charging capability, the E07 can be fully recharged overnight at home using a compatible wall box, making daily use easy and economical, especially if you can take advantage of off-peak energy rates.
The Deepal E07 represents more than just another entry in the growing EV market. It is a showcase of how design, technology, and versatility can combine to create something genuinely new and exciting.
Starting at $64,900 before on-road costs for the RWD variant, and $73,900 for the AWD version, the E07 represents exceptional value.
Considering the features, comfort, versatility, and, especially in the case of the AWD model, outstanding performance, it sets a benchmark that will be difficult for rivals to ignore.
To explore the E07 further or to book a test drive, head to Deepal.com.au and experience the first-ever multi-truck for yourself.
