The Little Ant is an all-electric micro car launched by Chery New Energy in 2017. As one of the earliest models in China to break into the A00-segment EV market, it once surpassed the 10,000-unit monthly sales milestone. The 2026 model debuted in January 2026, boosting its driving range to 271 km, though its positioning has now shifted from an "urban runabout pioneer" to a "premium boutique city car".
Positioned as an A00-segment all-electric hatchback under Chery New Energy, its key selling points include an all-aluminium body, all-round MacPherson independent suspension, a 271 km range, and DC fast charging capability. The 2026 line-up comprises two variants: Xi'ai Edition (RM54,900) and Zhen'ai Edition (RM60,900), coming in at RM42,600 to RM47,200 after dual scrappage subsidies. It measures 3,242 mm in length, 1,670 mm in width, and 1,550 mm in height, with a 2,150 mm wheelbase in a 3-door, 4-seater layout. Key rivals include the Wuling Hongguang MINIEV, Geely Panda, and BYD Seagull.
Up front, the 2026 model sports the new "QQ" emblem, paired with a closed-off grille featuring a honeycomb mesh pattern and smoked headlamps for a sportier touch. Along the sides, it features a floating roof aesthetic, an upswept waistline, and standard 15-inch wheels (steel wheels on the Xi'ai Edition, smoked alloy wheels on the Zhen'ai Edition). Around the back, the Chery crest makes way for bold "CHERY" block lettering above a revised rear bumper. Inside, the cabin gets a two-tone finish, a portrait-oriented 10.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a rotary gear selector, complete with connected car services, OTA updates, and smartphone app remote control.
The entire range runs a rear-mounted motor with rear-wheel drive (RWD), putting out 36 kW (49 PS) and 95 Nm of torque via a permanent magnet synchronous motor. Powered by a 25.05 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, it delivers a CLTC-rated range of 271 km. DC fast charging takes around 40 minutes for a 30% to 80% state of charge (SoC), while a full AC slow charge requires 9 hours.
Underneath, it retains front and rear MacPherson independent suspension—a rare setup in this segment that balances ride comfort and stability, complemented by a tight turning radius of just 4.55 metres.
Standard kit across the range includes dual front airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Hill-Start Assist (HSA), reverse parking sensors, and a reverse camera. The base Xi'ai Edition comes with a urethane steering wheel, fabric upholstery, a 2-speaker audio system, and steel wheels. Step up to the Zhen'ai Edition (at a RM6,000 premium) and you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel, faux leather seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated side mirrors, alloy wheels, and a 4-speaker sound system.
Since its 2017 debut, cumulative sales of the Little Ant have crossed the 800,000-unit mark. However, monthly sales tumbled from over 10,000 units at its peak to just 1,000–2,000 units in 2025. Key factors behind the slump include: 1) Its RM54,900 starting price is nearly RM20,000 steeper than the entry-level Wuling Hongguang MINIEV (RM30,000+ bracket), while overlapping with larger alternatives like the BYD Seagull and Wuling Binguo (RM60,000–RM70,000 range) where it falls short on cabin size; 2) Its 271 km range is outclassed in 2026 by rivals like the Seagull (400 km+); 3) A 2023 recall of over 20,000 units due to battery management software glitches took a toll on consumer confidence; and 4) Chery has shifted its focus and resources to newer sub-brands like Fulwin and iCAR, leaving the Little Ant with slower model updates.
The Little Ant's all-aluminium construction, four-wheel independent suspension, 271 km range, and DC fast charging support remain compelling highlights, but its RM54,900 entry price struggles against class competitors. It is strictly tailored for buyers who prioritise all-aluminium crash safety, do not require much interior room, and are working with a budget around RM50,000. Otherwise, stretching the budget for the BYD Seagull (which offers superior range and space across the board) or saving costs with the Wuling Hongguang MINIEV (priced from RM30,000+, perfectly adequate for daily commutes) makes for a far more sensible buy.
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