If you thought choosing between trim levels was the biggest decision when buying a new car, the Deepal SO7 – and many other Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) – are here to challenge that thinking. Forget the traditional approach of having to shell out more cash for higher-spec features. Instead, these vehicles come with nearly everything included and hand you the keys to fine-tune the experience to suit your mood, driving style, and purpose.
In the Deepal SO7, the level of personalisation is almost overwhelming at first. The infotainment system is packed with endless menus and settings, allowing you to adjust drive modes, steering feel, regenerative braking strength, ambient lighting, and even the angle of the infotainment screen itself. Imagine playing a high-end racing simulator where every detail can be customised – that’s what it feels like behind the wheel of the SO7.
Over a recent two-week test drive, I experienced three different SO7 vehicles, each set up differently by the previous driver. The result? Each car felt like an entirely different specification level, even though they were technically identical models. In one car, the door handles greeted me by popping out automatically as I approached. In another, I had to dig through menus to deactivate ADAS warnings. In the third, the key could stay tucked in my pocket as the car locked and unlocked itself with a simple approach or departure.
This level of adjustability is something that Australian new-car buyers and fleet drivers might not be used to, especially if they’ve only driven Japanese or Korean vehicles. Traditionally, certain features – like automatic door handles or premium interior lighting – were reserved for top-spec models. But in these Chinese EVs, it’s all about how you choose to configure the vehicle.
For Fleet Managers and novated lease buyers, this is fantastic news. Instead of paying extra for minor luxuries, you get a vehicle that can adapt to different drivers and use cases. One driver might prefer sporty steering and aggressive regen braking for city commutes, while another might opt for comfort suspension settings and muted cabin alerts for long highway trips.
Beyond driving dynamics, the infotainment and cabin settings also transform the ownership experience. The centre screen on the SO7 can tilt toward the driver for a cockpit feel or rotate to the middle for a more communal vibe. Ambient lighting themes can be changed based on your mood or the season, and the over-the-air software updates can even add new features down the track.
This trend isn’t exclusive to Deepal. Other Chinese EV brands entering the Australian market – like BYD, MG, and GWM – are also bringing highly customisable features. For fleet operators, this means fewer variant decisions at purchase time and more flexibility in meeting driver preferences across a diverse team.
If you’re considering novated leasing, the takeaway is simple: vehicles like the Deepal SO7 offer premium features across the board, letting you adjust and create your own spec level without paying for the top model. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly commuter or a tech-laden office on wheels, these EVs can be tailored for purpose – all from the driver’s seat.
In the end, the Deepal SO7 and its Chinese EV siblings represent a new approach to vehicle ownership. Instead of buying features, you’re buying flexibility – and that’s fit-for-purpose driving at its finest.
