An all-electric SUV for less than 32,000 francs? And with leather seats, dual display and almost 200 hp? Welcome to the world of JAC. With the second electric JAC, the Chinese are really stepping up their game and eliminating the teething troubles.
This is likely to stress out many traditional companies. The Chinese may have missed out on one or two things in the old car world. But when it comes to electric vehicles, the giant country also has huge potential. The new JAC e-JS4 - like its predecessor - is shaking up the market. With a low price and high standard. Auto Garage Zimmermann AG from Niederwangen offers the new price miracle on wheels and a test will show whether the Chinese can keep pace with traditional car dealerships.
A touch of elegance
While its smaller brother, the JAC e-S2, was still modest in terms of equipment, the JS4 now welcomes its passengers with solid leather seats, a tidy cockpit and large screens. The difference compared to the competition is not noticeable at first glance. And on the outside? The Chinese have - fortunately from a European perspective - dispensed with an overly futuristic exterior, instead welcoming the typical, slightly raised compact SUV shape with the elongated lights typical of electric vehicles. The Chinese car scores points in the parking lot.
A touch of sportiness
And on the road? The approach gives no indication of how sporty the JAC can be. In contrast to many electric cars, which shoot off at the lightest touch of the gas pedal, the Chinese car takes a good second to pull away. But if you then press the pedal down, you will soon feel the more than 300 Newton meters that drive the vehicle. Not only Swiss ski racers can glide, but also Chinese cars. The drive from Niederwangen to Bramberg is easy and relaxed. The JAC's performance is not only sufficient for the many traffic signs, but also makes it easier for the chugging Steinalt tractor to overtake.
A touch of revolution
The electric power is of interest on the return journey. The JAC is supposed to drive 400 km before it needs a power source again. The Eco function boosts recuperation and thus the recovery of energy and ensures that the factory specifications can be met on a beautiful fall day on the Bramberg. Lucky for Switzerland, or more precisely for the greater Bern/Freiburg area. The JAC e-JS4 is only available here and not yet in the EU. Thanks to Auto Garage Zimmermann in Niederwangen in the middle of this newspaper's distribution area. But one German car manufacturer knows the Chinese all too well: Volkswagen. The Wolfsburg-based company has a stake in the Group and holds 75% of the shares. German know-how in Chinese production results in an affordable car with rock-solid values. But one thing must be emphasized for the e-JS4. This second model is made entirely in China. But VW has long since realized how strong the Chinese company will be in the electric car market.
Back on the forecourt of Auto Garage Zimmermann in Niederwangen, you can rub your eyes in amazement again. This car actually costs just CHF 31,989. After the e-S2, it is therefore safe to say: The JAC e-JS4 is the revolution 2.0.
Text: Sacha Jacqueroud
