Iran-based automaker KSJ Motors has taken the wraps of an affordable subcompact EV named the Oxygen. The vehicle starts from $10,000 and is set to go into production in May.
A closer look reveals design similarities with the Smart ForTwo. Both are around 2.5 meters (98 inches) long. The Iran two-seater has a much more modest-looking interior, but the combination of white and blue can be rather appealing.
Powering the newcomer is a single electric motor rated at 20 PS (20 hp /15 kW). The driving range amounts to 220 km (136 miles). The manufacturer claims around 80% pf the production is localized in the country.
The factory in Shiraz, Iran plans to assemble the first 1,000 units of the KSJ Oxygen within nine months of production. In a few years, it expects to reach its target production capacity of 10,000 units per year. Exports is also being discussed: the reveal event was attended by an Ambassador of Senegal, who said his country expressed interest towards the EV.
The company believes its creation to be the world’s cheapest electric car, but as far as we are aware, Chinese automaker Wuling holds that title with vehicles starting below half the price of the KSJ Oxygen. Furthermore, Chinese battery cars are the most sold worldwide.