The Skyworth EVA 5 is a fully electric D-segment SUV produced by Skyworth Auto, manufactured by Jiangsu Skywell Automobile Co., Ltd. The model's lineage traces back to Tianmei Auto, founded by Huang Hongsheng in 2019; in 2020, Tianmei Auto rolled out its debut model, the Tianmei ET5, serving as the direct domestic predecessor to the Skyworth EVA 5. In 2021, Tianmei Auto was officially rebranded as Skyworth Auto, leading to several naming revisions across global markets. In Australia, the EV was initially slated for sale as the EV Automotive EVA 5, before ultimately being badged as the Skyworth BE11; in China, it is marketed as the Tianmei ET5 or Skyworth ET5, whereas in the Middle East, it carries the Skywell ET5 moniker. Additionally, the SUV is distributed across various international markets under badge-engineered nameplates including the Elaris Beo and Imperium SRV.
In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,698–4,720 mm in length, 1,908 mm in width, and 1,696 mm in height, riding on a 2,800 mm wheelbase. Configured as a 5-door, 5-seater SUV, it offers a standard boot capacity of 467–471 litres, expanding to 1,141 litres with the rear seats folded flat. Overseas market availability includes Australia, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Penned with input from an international design team, the Skyworth EVA 5 largely adheres to conventional SUV proportions. Up front, it features an integrated closed-off grille flanked by dumbbell-styled fog lamp surrounds for a more muscular look. At the rear, a sculpted, raised bonnet profile and quad-projector LED headlamp clusters contribute to a bold, rugged road presence. Inside, the cabin is equipped with Skyworth’s in-house Skylink intelligent connected infotainment system, anchored by a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster alongside a 12.8-inch floating HD touchscreen with integrated satellite navigation and AI voice commands. Upholstery is primarily dual-tone faux leather, offered in black, brown, and dual-tone black/white, paired with ergonomically sculpted seats. On the tech front, Skyworth’s smart home ecosystem is built directly into the infotainment unit, enabling voice-activated remote home automation alongside multi-screen mirroring and continuous multimedia playback.
The Skyworth EVA 5 lineup features a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor driving the front wheels (FWD) via a single-speed reduction gear transmission. Standard output is rated at 150 kW (approximately 204 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. Depending on the variant, the century sprint (0–100 km/h) is completed between 7.7 and 9.6 seconds, with top speed capped at 150 km/h. Early Chinese-market variants were fitted with 55.33 kWh and 71.98 kWh ternary lithium battery packs, delivering 410 km and 520 km of NEDC range respectively. Global models are available with 52 kWh and 72 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) or ternary lithium batteries—the 72 kWh pack returning 400–520 km under WLTC, whilst the 86 kWh pack achieves 490 km on the WLTC cycle. Select variants supporting 800V high-voltage architecture (such as the Australian BE11) support 30%–80% DC fast charging in approximately 40–45 minutes. A Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) external power supply function comes standard across the global lineup.
Under the skin, the Skyworth EVA 5 is underpinned by a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup. The multi-link rear suspension—a less common layout in this EV segment—enhances rear-end tracking stability and overall ride comfort over uneven tarmac. Braking is handled by front ventilated discs and rear solid discs, paired with an electronic parking brake (EPB) with Auto Hold. It runs a front-wheel-drive configuration riding on 235/55 R18 tyres. With the battery pack nestled centrally within the floor, kerb weight stands at roughly 1,920 kg, offering a ground clearance of around 159 mm for practical day-to-day usability. Aided by its all-wheel independent suspension, the SUV remains planted in urban traffic with decent high-speed composure; however, international reviews note that secondary ride compliance over rough surfaces could be improved, as surface imperfections can filter through into the cabin. Steering is managed by an electric power steering (EPS) rack calibrated light at low speeds and weighting up progressively at higher velocities, prioritizing driving ease and cruising comfort.
The digital cockpit of the Skyworth EVA 5 is headlined by a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch floating infotainment display running the Skyworth Skylink operating system. Integrating Skyworth's digital ecosystem, the system supports dedicated mobile app remote controls and conversational AI voice interaction. Flagship global trims such as the Luxury variant add dual-zone automatic climate control, dedicated rear air-conditioning vents, multiple USB charging ports, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. An 8-speaker sound system is fitted as standard across the range. The leatherette front seats feature power adjustment, ventilation, and heating, while top-spec variants add heated rear seats. Cabin space is generous, with the 2,800 mm wheelbase ensuring ample rear legroom. The SUV also incorporates a PM2.5 cabin air filter, negative ion air purifier, and high-temperature thermal sterilization system paired with active sleep-aid functions, transforming the cabin into a wellness-focused space with pristine air quality. Generously bolstered seats minimize long-distance fatigue, while the 1,141-litre maximum boot capacity effortlessly accommodates baby strollers or outdoor camping gear.
Safety-wise, the Skyworth EVA 5 is engineered around a multi-layered passive and active safety suite. The chassis features a high-strength cage structure utilizing ultra-high-strength steel in critical load-bearing zones, complemented by standard front dual airbags, front side airbags, and full-length curtain airbags. On the active safety front, the entire range comes equipped with Level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), comprising Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Critical ADAS functions such as AEB have proven effective in detecting forward hazards and applying prompt autonomous braking across mainstream testing benchmarks. In addition, the EV gets a 540-degree panoramic camera system (with transparent underbody view) and 360-degree parking sensors, making maneuvering through narrow spots and tight parking spaces hassle-free. While earlier iterations received modest C-NCAP ratings, updated Tianmei ET5 and EVA 5 models have shown marked improvements in pedestrian protection and car-to-car AEB performance under revised safety protocols. Although export-market ANCAP testing was deferred, the platform is engineered to meet current EU vehicle safety standards. The traction battery pack is rated to IP67 water and dust resistance, integrated with an automatic high-voltage cut-off system upon impact.
The global rollout of the Skyworth EVA 5 has seen strategic market recalibrations. In Australia, the launch was originally planned for late 2024 or 2025, but was subsequently pushed to the first half of 2026 to incorporate technical upgrades (including 800V architecture and an ANCAP 5-star safety target); the updated Australian-spec BE11 will feature an 86 kWh battery pack delivering 489 km of WLTP range. In the UK, the Skywell BE11 retails with an OTR price range of £36,995 to £39,995. In the Middle East, the Skywell ET5 starts at AED 180,000 in the UAE (approx. RM330,000). Over in Australia, the Comfort trim is priced from AUD 48,990, while the Luxury variant commands AUD 52,990 (both excluding on-road costs).
From an automotive media standpoint, Australia's Drive highlighted the Skyworth BE11 as a value-for-money proposition in the affordable EV space, thanks to its sub-AUD 50,000 entry point and 489 km WLTP range; the UK’s Carwow commended its generous cabin space and rich equipment list, while noting that perceived interior material quality and energy efficiency remain modest. In Saudi Arabia, comprehensive road tests found the EV’s interior room and feature list outclassed same-price rivals, though high-speed driving dynamics still trailed established competitors from Hyundai and Tesla. Early overseas consumer feedback has been positive regarding its rear legroom, solid build, and family-friendly utility, though some owners have pointed out areas for improvement, including NVH sound insulation, range degradation in colder climates, and a slight learning curve for the infotainment UI. Overall, the Skyworth EVA 5 spearheads the brand's global expansion via a multi-brand export strategy. Leveraging keen pricing, Level 2.5 ADAS, and connected smart home tech, it has carved out a foothold across Europe, the Middle East, and Australasia, though building wider brand recognition and a premium reputation remains an ongoing journey.
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