Livan Auto Maple 80v

Model Overview

The Maple 80v is an all-electric compact MPV from Livan Auto (formerly Maple Auto). First introduced in 2021 under the Maple Auto marque, it stands as one of the key offerings spawned from the Geely-Lifan joint venture, Livan Auto. Marketed as a "chargeable and swappable" EV MPV, it is targeted at commercial fleet operators, ride-hailing services, passenger shuttle duties, and multi-member families, placing heavy emphasis on battery-swapping capability and cabin practicality. To date, the Maple 80v model line has spawned several variants, including the standard version, 80v L, and 80v PRO. The 2024–2025 models serve as the main line-up on sale, offering CLTC pure electric ranges of 407 km and 515 km across 6- and 7-seater configurations, with the 2025 model priced between RM161,700 and RM178,700.

Design Language

On the outside, the Maple 80v adopts an understated, utilitarian styling approach, characterised by a clean, rounded, and planted silhouette. Up front, a closed-off grille is paired with halogen headlamp clusters that feature manual levelling and follow-me-home delay-off functions. Down the flanks, clean body lines define its proportions, measuring 4,812 mm in length, 1,909 mm in width, and 1,699 mm in height, with a 2,807 mm wheelbase. Spanning over 1.9 metres wide, it boasts a distinctly "wide-body" stance for a compact MPV. Around the back, the squared-off tailgate is flanked by vertically stacked tail lamps for clear visual recognition. Notably, it uses conventional hinged doors rather than sliding doors, paired with a user-friendly step-in height.

Inside, the Maple 80v maintains a minimalist, function-over-form cabin layout. For the 2024–2025 model years, all variants come standard with a 10.33-inch floating infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch full digital instrument cluster. The urethane steering wheel offers manual tilt and telescopic adjustment. Gear selection is handled via an electronic shift-by-wire lever, alongside a minimal cluster of physical controls on the centre console. Leatherette upholstery is standard across the board, with the 6-seater variant featuring individual captain seats in the second row for decent occupant comfort.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the skin, the Maple 80v is driven by a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor driving the front wheels via a single-speed reduction gearbox. The motor outputs a maximum of 100 kW (136 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, enabling a top speed of 130 km/h. Power delivery is calibrated predominantly for linear smoothness to suit daily urban commutes and shuttle duties, delivering instantaneous low-end response ideal for stop-and-go commercial driving.

Depending on the model year and variant, multiple traction battery configurations are available:

• 2024 Model 407km Version: Equipped with a 50.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, delivering a CLTC-rated range of 407 km

• 2025 Model 515km Version: Offers two battery options—a 66.57 kWh CATL ternary lithium-ion (NMC) pack or a 68.08 kWh phosphate-based pack, both providing a CLTC-rated range of 515 km

For energy replenishment, the Maple 80v supports DC fast charging: the 515 km version charges from 30% to 80% state of charge (SoC) in 40 minutes, while the 407 km version takes 30 minutes to reach 80%. Battery swapping is supported across the entire range, serving as the cornerstone of Livan Auto's "charge-and-swap" mobility strategy.

Chassis and Handling

The Maple 80v is built on a monocoque chassis in a front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. Up front, it rides on a MacPherson strut independent suspension, paired with a multi-link non-independent rear suspension (a multi-link rigid axle arrangement). This robust rear setup prioritises payload and load-bearing capacity to easily handle heavy passenger loads and luggage. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system with light tuning for effortless manoeuvring. Braking is handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, complemented by an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold. It rides on 215/60 R17 tyres and does not come equipped with a spare wheel.

Minimum ground clearance at full load is rated at 130 mm, providing sufficient clearance for urban and suburban obstacles.

Cabin and Features

Cabin practicality and seating versatility form the main highlights of the Maple 80v. Courtesy of its 2,807 mm wheelbase and broad 1.9-metre-plus body, the interior offers generous legroom and shoulder room. Seating is available in either 6-seater (2+2+2) or 7-seater (2+3+2 / 2+2+3) configurations. The 6-seater model features individual second-row captain chairs with slide and recline adjustments, alongside a centre walk-through aisle for easy third-row access. Boot space is rated at an official 459 litres, expandable via split-folding third-row seats.

On the infotainment and equipment front, the 2024–2025 models feature a 10.33-inch touchscreen supporting OEM smartphone screen mirroring and Bluetooth connectivity, paired with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. In-car audio is provided by a standard two-speaker setup. Basic creature comforts include manual air-conditioning with rear air vents, front power windows, and remote central locking. Device connectivity includes one front USB port, three rear USB ports, and a 12V auxiliary power socket.

Selectable drive modes include Standard/Comfort and Eco.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of passive safety, the Maple 80v comes standard with dual front airbags (driver and front passenger). ISOFIX child seat anchor points, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a driver seatbelt reminder are fitted across all variants. The bodyshell utilises a high-strength cage construction to safeguard occupant cabin integrity during a collision.

Active safety features fitted as standard include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA/BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Auto Brake Hold and Hill Start Assist (HSA) are also included.

For driving assistance, the entire range comes equipped with rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and conventional cruise control. It does not feature Level 2 or higher Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), relying solely on three rear ultrasonic sensors for basic proximity detection.

On the battery-swapping safety front, Livan Auto has deployed dedicated swapping stations engineered with multi-point safety locks and automated monitoring to ensure reliability and structural safety during battery exchange cycles.

Market Performance and Reviews

Since its debut in 2021, the Maple 80v has undergone multiple model updates, successfully transitioning from the standalone Maple Auto brand under the Livan Auto umbrella. Industry registration data shows monthly sales reached 2,940 units in August 2024. Primary rivals in China's commercial fleet segment include battery-swappable and pure-electric MPVs like the BYD D1 and Bestune NAT.

In terms of user feedback, owners highlight its main strengths as: generous interior room (2,807 mm wheelbase and 1.9 m width), ultra-low running costs (EV powertrain with battery-swap compatibility), functional baseline kit (dual airbags, ESP, reverse camera), and commendable seating comfort in 6-seater trim.

However, according to consumer complaint logs from CheZhiWang, the Maple 80v has drawn significant quality-related grievances, predominantly concentrated on early 2021 batches:

• Transmission and drivetrain defects: Multiple reports of intermediate shaft detachment between the motor and gearbox, abnormal transmission noise, and complete transmission failures causing breakdowns

• Battery and charging issues: High-voltage battery charging failures, OEM-enforced usable capacity throttling/charge-cycle caps, and real-world range falling well below official claims

• Other build quality issues: Failed air-conditioning compressors, headlamp malfunctions, suspension knocking noises, and steering rack noises

• After-sales and service issues: Hidden fees, unhonoured sales commitments, shortage of battery swap stations in secondary regions, and a sparse service centre network

These complaints underscore noticeable shortcomings in build quality consistency and after-sales support on the initial 2021 model, representing a crucial consideration for prospective buyers. For the updated 2024–2025 iterations, market longevity will determine if these teething issues have been thoroughly rectified.

Factory warranty coverage is set at one year or 150,000 km, which is relatively brief compared to broader industry standards.

Comparison with Major Competitors

The Maple 80v holds a clear upper hand over rivals in terms of exterior footprint, cabin room, and electric range, though it trails established players like BYD in brand equity and after-sales support infrastructure.

In summary, the Maple 80v carves out a niche in the RM150,000 to RM180,000 EV MPV segment with its standout "charge-and-swap" flexibility, a generous 515 km range, a 2,807 mm wheelbase, and adaptable 6/7-seater seating. While the 2024–2025 models bring welcome upgrades in range and equipment, the transmission defects and battery charging issues reported on earlier 2021 models—coupled with a short factory warranty—remain pertinent factors to weigh. For e-hailing fleets and cost-driven operators, its battery swap capability and cabin space hold genuine appeal, though checking local battery swap station coverage and service centre accessibility remains essential prior to purchase.