Chevrolet's Newest Electric SUV Shares a Hidden Chinese Twin | Carscoops

      Due to its Chinese origins, it's improbable that the Captiva EV will be available for sale in the US.

      The Captiva EV is derived from the Chinese Wuling Starlight S but features the Chevrolet badge.

      General Motors intends to introduce the EV in regions such as Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.

      It is expected to have similar specifications to the Wuling Starlight S, including a driving range of 317 miles.

      Update: Chevrolet has shared new images of the Captiva EV from Brazil, which are included in the gallery below.

      Chevrolet is broadening its electric vehicle lineup in various global markets, with the Captiva nameplate making a comeback, now featuring an electric powertrain. However, it won't be making its way onto American roads. Instead, this new model will be available in areas like Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

      The Captiva name was first introduced in the mid-2000s for a compact SUV sold in select markets such as Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Southeast Asia, where it was also known as the Daewoo Winstorm. After the initial model was discontinued, GM reintroduced the Captiva with a revamped version based on the Baojun 530, a Chinese vehicle. Now, the Captiva is entirely electric and is based on another Chinese model.

      The relevant model is the Wuling Starlight S (also referred to as the Xing Guang S), which is currently marketed in China. Recent posts on social media by General Motors in Brazil indicate that many design elements from the Wuling have been adapted for the Chevy, albeit modified enough to align with the Chevrolet branding.

      At the front, the Captiva EV features slim LED lights and turn signals, with the main headlights positioned lower on the front fascia. Despite being an electric vehicle, it still has a sizable black grille, contrasting with the grille-less designs commonly seen in modern EVs. The rear end closely resembles that of the Wuling model, sharing the same taillights, tailgate, and black bumper.

      The Captiva EV will be available in markets like Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, where its compact size and affordability are anticipated to resonate well. Unsurprisingly, the US is completely excluded from this plan.

      Technical details for the new model are not yet disclosed. However, it is known that the all-electric Starlight S has an estimated driving range of up to 317 miles (510 km) and can accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.7 seconds. Similar specifications are expected for the Captiva EV, including the capability of charging the battery from 30-80% in just 20 minutes.

      Chevrolet has stated that the Captiva EV is currently undergoing the final stages of homologation in the country, involving “extensive series of tests and validations.” Pricing will be revealed later, but the official website includes a form for potential buyers to express interest and receive updates.