Aiways, the Shanghai-based company that describes itself as a ‘personal mobility provider’, is to start taking online orders for its U5 all-electric SUV from European consumers from the end of April. Secured via a small deposit, the U5 will be offered exclusively via a direct-to-customer sales model, and not retailed or leased through traditional dealerships. European pre-sale markets and the required deposit amount will be announced by Aiways in April.

Alexander Klose, Executive VP Overseas Operation at Aiways, commented: “Online pre-sales represents the next important phase of Aiways’ entry into the European market. It’s our promise to customers that for only a small deposit they can be among the first to receive the U5 and start enjoying the benefits of a long range, high-tech and well equipped electric SUV.”

Meanwhile, Aiways has re-started production of the U5 at its manufacturing facility in Shangrao, China, following the interruption caused by COVID-19 (coronavirus). Production of the European U5 will start in July, with the first deliveries now slated for August 2020.

Aiways says it is adapting its pre-sale marketing activities to better suit the enforced period of ‘contactless’ retail because of COVID-19. More details to follow soon.