The Skyworth BE11 (marketed as the Skywell BE11 in selected European markets such as the UK) is a fully electric mid-size SUV developed for global markets by China's Skyworth Auto (a subsidiary of the Skywell New Energy Vehicles Group). Domestically in China, the vehicle traces its lineage directly back to the Skyworth EV6 (originally known as the Tianmei ET5 in its early days). Following localized compliance upgrades and rebranding for export markets, it now serves as Skyworth Auto's core global strategic model driving its expansion into the Asia-Pacific (such as Australia), Europe (including the UK and Turkey), and Middle Eastern markets.
The Skyworth BE11 is positioned as an urban, fully electric mid-size (five-seater) crossover SUV. Its product philosophy adopts a highly pragmatic approach, centring on "cross-segment space advantage" and "smart home ecosystem connectivity." Its primary selling point is offering a generous 2,800 mm wheelbase comparable to the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID.4, but at an accessible price point closer to A/B-segment electric SUVs (such as the BYD Atto 3 and Geely Galaxy EX5). Leveraging Skyworth Group's extensive background in smart home appliances, the BE11 features a "mobile living room" concept and a "one-touch healthy nap mode" as key differentiators. It mainly targets pragmatic EV buyers who prioritise value for money, family cabin space, and a familiar layout with tactile physical switchgear.
From initial domestic testing to global rebranding, the evolution of the BE11 lineup highlights Skyworth's strategic overseas expansion:
Predecessor and Early Overseas Ventures (2020–2024): The prototype originally debuted in China in 2020 under the "Tianmei ET5" moniker before being renamed the Skyworth EV6. In early export trials, an Australian distributor planned to market it as the EV Automotive EVA 5.
Unified Global Naming and Debut (2025): To establish clearer brand recall in international markets, Skyworth standardized its export name as the Skyworth BE11 (or Skywell BE11). In 2025, the SUV made high-profile preview appearances and opened for order bookings in the UK and Australia, with the entry-level Comfort variant priced competitively under AUD 49,000 / GBP 24,000, boasting a comprehensive kit list.
2026 Full Lineup Technical Upgrades (2026 to Present): Addressing initial feedback from overseas motoring media and buyers regarding slow DC fast-charging rates (capped at around 80 kW on early versions) and the absence of local crash test ratings, Skyworth officially rolled out a major facelifted and upgraded BE11 in the first half of 2026. The main updates include chassis refinements and electrical powertrain enhancements, with selected higher-spec export trims gaining upgraded high-voltage fast-charging architecture. Meanwhile, distributors in markets such as Australia intentionally held back initial customer deliveries to ensure the refreshed model conforms fully to the stricter five-star ANCAP / Euro NCAP crash safety benchmarks.
Skyworth's global offensive with the BE11 adopts a classic strategy of "high equipment levels, accessible pricing, and comprehensive aftersales support." In the UK and right-hand-drive Asia-Pacific markets, the SUV aims to draw mainstream EV buyers with extensive warranty packages (such as a 5-year/150,000 km manufacturer warranty and an 8-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty) alongside enticing showroom incentives (including complimentary home wallbox chargers and public charging credits in select markets). While it may not match rivals like the BYD Sealion 7 or Leapmotor C10 in cutting-edge software ecosystems or outright ultra-fast charging speeds, the BE11 has carved out a solid niche for exceptional value for money. It has gained strong traction among e-hailing operators, family car buyers, and weekend camping enthusiasts thanks to its cavernous boot, plush leather/Alcantara upholstery, and remarkably generous rear legroom.
In terms of exterior dimensions, the Skyworth BE11 boasts a proper mid-size SUV footprint, measuring 4,720 mm in length, 1,908 mm in width, and 1,696 mm in height, riding on an expansive 2,800 mm wheelbase. Boot capacity stands at 467 litres in standard configuration and expands to a flat 1,141 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Key technical and electric powertrain specifications are as follows:
Powertrain (Front-Wheel Drive / FWD):
Electric Motor: Driven by a single front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor across the range.
Power Output: Rated at a maximum output of 150 kW (approx. 204 PS) and 320 Nm of peak torque.
Performance: The 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in 9.6 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 150 km/h. Throttle calibration prioritises smooth, progressive power delivery over aggressive acceleration.
Battery, Energy Consumption and Charging:
Battery Technology: Overseas markets offer two main battery capacities, utilising either Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) or long-life Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry.
Standard Range Variant: Fitted with an approx. 72 kWh battery pack, delivering a WLTP-rated combined range of around 400 to 420 km.
Long Range Variant: Equipped with a larger 86 kWh pack, yielding an official WLTP combined range of 489 km (and exceeding 600 km in urban driving cycles), with an average energy consumption of 16.6 to 17.8 kWh/100 km.
Fast Charging and V2L Capability: Supports 11 kW AC three-phase charging. Peak DC fast-charging performance has been further optimised on the facelifted model, with 3.3 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power discharge standard across the entire lineup. Uniquely, the cabin also includes a factory-fitted 220V universal three-pin AC power outlet, making it exceptionally convenient for outdoor camping gear or mobile workstations.
Chassis & Suspension: Underpinned by front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent setup. Jointly tuned by European and domestic engineering teams, the chassis setup prioritises ride comfort and composure, effectively absorbing minor road chatter and uneven surfaces.
The cabin heavily reflects Skyworth's consumer electronics heritage. The dashboard features a standard 12.8-inch (upgraded to 15 inches on high-spec variants) adaptive central touchscreen display running the proprietary Skylink intelligent infotainment system, equipped with native wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support on export models.
Its signature interior highlight is Skyworth's patented "Healthy Sleep Mode": with a single touch, the front ventilated and heated seats (upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara) recline fully flat. Combined with multi-density ergonomic foam cushioning, an advanced N95-grade negative-ion air purification system, and an 8-speaker sound system tuned by Germany's Metz, the cabin quickly transforms into a serene, climate-controlled lounge. On the safety front, the 2026 model lineup comprehensively updates its Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite, incorporating full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and a 360-degree HD surround-view camera system.
Skyworth Auto's international operations are transitioning from pure export shipments to a comprehensive global product lineup. Building on the BE11 as its foundational volume model, Skyworth plans to accelerate the development of its electronic and electrical architecture over the next two years, introducing its newly developed, highly efficient domestic plug-in hybrid (HT-i) variants and advanced voice-connected ecosystems to global markets. Concurrently, Skyworth is actively expanding its localized dealer networks across Europe and Southeast Asia, gearing up to establish a dual-track passenger and commercial vehicle export front in RHD and key European electrified markets, complemented by the upcoming Q-segment electric hatchback and next-generation commercial EV vans (such as the S233).
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