Kaiyi Shiyue Max Launched: The Ultimate Budget Micro-EV with CATL Tech and $6,600 Price Tag

On April 28, Kaiyi Auto (a subsidiary of the Chery Group) officially launched the Kaiyi Shiyue Max. This five-door, four-seat micro-EV enters the market as a formidable competitor to the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV, offering a superior range and high-end battery technology at a starting price of just $6,630 (RMB 47,900).

With limited-time incentives, the entry price drops even further to $6,350 (RMB 45,900), making it one of the most cost-effective urban commuters in the 2026 global market.

1. Compact Exterior with “Wide-Body” Interior

Despite its classification as a micro-car, the Kaiyi Shiyue Max utilizes a long-wheelbase, short-overhang design to maximize utility.

Dimensions: 3,725mm (L) x 1,700mm (W) x 1,608mm (H).
Wheelbase: 2,520mm—significantly longer than most competitors in this class.
Space Utilization: Boasts a 70.6% interior space utilization rate, with a trunk that expands from 218L to a massive 960L with the rear seats folded.
Colors: Available in three trendy urban shades: Vanilla Beige, Sea Salt Blue, and Glutinous Rice White.

2. Tech-Forward Cabin: Connectivity for Gen-Z

Kaiyi has equipped the Shiyue Max with a tech suite usually reserved for larger vehicles.

Screens: Every model comes standard with an 8.8-inch digital cluster and a 12.8-inch high-definition central touchscreen.
Smart Links: Full support for Apple CarPlay, Huawei HiCar, and CarLink, ensuring seamless smartphone integration.
App Control: Owners can remotely manage air conditioning, lock/unlock doors, and check battery status via the mobile app.
Hardware: Powered by a high-speed “Smart Chip” with 6G RAM and 64G storage, supporting over-the-air (OTA) updates.

3. Performance & Battery: Powered by CATL

Unlike many budget EVs that use generic cells, the Kaiyi Shiyue Max is powered by CATL (Jiangsu Times), the world’s leading battery manufacturer.

Battery Pack: 28.08 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP).
Range: 310 km (CLTC), perfect for multi-day city commuting.
Fast Charging: Supports DC fast charging, going from 30% to 80% in under 30 minutes.
V2L Capability: Standard 3.3kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) output, allowing the car to act as a mobile power bank for outdoor activities.

4. Safety & Trim Levels

The Shiyue Max is available in two main configurations:

Feature	Heart’s Desire (Base)	As Desired (Premium)
Braking	Rear Drum / Mechanical Handbrake	Rear Disc / Electronic Handbrake (EPB)
Camera	Rear-view Camera	360° Panoramic + Transparent Chassis
Convenience	Key Start	Full Keyless Entry & Start
Audio	2 Speakers	4 Speakers
Braking Tech	Standard	Optional One-box Wire-controlled Braking

Consultant’s Verdict: Why This Matters for the Global Market

The Kaiyi Shiyue Max represents the second generation of Chinese micro-EVs. While the first generation focused solely on low costs, the Shiyue Max focuses on “Value Oversupply.” By including a 310km range, a CATL battery, and V2L discharge as standard for under $7,000, Kaiyi is setting a new benchmark for what “entry-level” mobility looks like.

For international consultants and importers, the Shiyue Max is the prime example of how Chery’s ecosystem is scaling premium technology down to the most affordable segments of the market.