Kaiyi Shiyue Max / E-Qute 04 Max
Kaiyi Auto has introduced new Max versions of its compact Kaiyi E-Qute 04 hatchback, bringing a stronger motor, redesigned interior, and a larger battery supplied by CATL. In China, the updated EV is priced between 47,900 and 51,900 yuan (around $7,000–7,600).
Known locally as the Shiyue Max, the model quietly arrived without appearing at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, alongside the rest of the Kaiyi lineup. The same vehicle is also sold under the Chery brand as the Chery QQ Duomi.
Visually, the Max version gets revised bumpers with side air inlets replacing the old closed-off front fascia. The rear end also receives subtle updates, including lower-mounted fog lamps.
Inside, the cabin has been heavily modernized, ditching most physical buttons in favor of a cleaner, tech-focused layout. A new 12.8-inch central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, accompanied by an updated digital instrument display. Seating has also been redesigned, though capacity drops from five passengers to four.
The biggest upgrade lies under the skin. The E-Qute 04 Max now uses a more powerful 55 kW (74 hp) electric motor mounted at the front, paired with a 28.08 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack from CATL. The setup delivers a claimed CLTC driving range of 310 km.
The compact EV measures 3725 mm long, 1700 mm wide, and 1608 mm tall, riding on a 2520 mm wheelbase. Curb weight stands at 1115 kg. DC fast charging is supported, allowing the battery to charge from 30 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes.
Kaiyi also claims the battery can pre-heat in cold weather, although details about cooling hardware remain unclear. Like many affordable Chinese mini-EVs, the model may rely on a simpler battery cooling setup, which can affect charging performance during repeated fast-charge sessions.
Suspension consists of MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion-beam setup at the rear, while all trims ride on 15-inch wheels with narrow 165 mm tires. The E-Qute 04 Max competes in China’s crowded A0-class mini-EV segment alongside rivals such as the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and Geely Panda Mini, where low pricing and playful styling are key selling points.
Kaiyi itself has an unusual history. Originally launched as the Cowin sub-brand under Chery, it focused on low-cost vehicles aimed at buyers in smaller Chinese cities and rural regions. The company later came under control of the Yibin municipal government in Sichuan Province, while Chery reduced its ownership stake but maintained technical cooperation.
Today, Kaiyi continues to struggle in the fiercely competitive Chinese market. In March 2026, the brand reportedly delivered just 1900 vehicles domestically, with the E-Qute 04 accounting for only 181 units. However, the company has been shifting its attention overseas, where its affordable EVs have found buyers in more than 30 countries. Kaiyi has even entered markets such as Hong Kong, where it partnered with taxi operators to supply electric crossovers for local fleets.
