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New Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ gets more range, but not the cream

New version of GWM Ora’s curiously-named hatchback gets more range and a more generous kit list

Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ - header

GWM Ora may not have got the same warm reception from UK buyers as other Chinese-owned brands such as MG and BYD, but it's hoping a new upgraded version of its Funky Cat hatchback might be just what it needs to mark its territory in the European car market.

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Starting from £33,795 and limited to just 50 units, the headline feature of the Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ is its larger 63kWh battery. Replacing the 46kWh unit found in regular Funky Cat models, GWM Ora says the First Edition+’s larger battery pack is sufficient for a range of up to 260 miles – an increase of almost 70 miles. 

This boost in range puts the Ora Funky Cat in closer competition with the smaller, yet more expensive Vauxhall Corsa Electric and Peugeot E-208, as well as base models of the Cupra Born, Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault Megane E-Tech, which are all, once again, more expensive than the Ora.

Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ - mat

Demanding an almost £2,000 premium over the regular Funky Cat First Edition, the ‘+’ model also includes heated front seats – something that was a rather odd omission from the standard model’s otherwise loaded specification.

The driver and front passenger also benefit from cooling and massaging functions, while a heated steering wheel, a panoramic glass roof and an automated parking function complete the upgraded equipment list. The Funky Cat already boasts a dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, quilted leatherette upholstery and a 360-degree camera system.

Even the keenest-eyed readers would struggle to tell the difference between First Edition First Edition+ cars; look closely and you’ll see the limited-run model gets exclusive badging, floor mats, keys and a matching Type 2 charging cable. There aren’t any exclusive colours for the First Edition+, but both the most popular shades - Aurora Green and Mars Red - will be offered at no extra cost.

The Ora Funky Cat First Edition+ will go on sale on the 12 October on what the brand calls a ‘first-come-first-serve basis’. Less expensive versions of the Funky Cat are due at a later date, with the small electric hatchback soon set to be joined by the larger Lightning Cat saloon, which was unveiled earlier in 2023.

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Hello there, I’m Tom Jervis and I have the pleasure of being the Content Editor here at DrivingElectric. Before joining the team in 2023, I spent my time reviewing cars and offering car buying tips and advice on DrivingElectric’s sister site, Carbuyer. I also continue to occasionally contribute to the AutoExpress magazine – another of DrivingElectric’s partner brands. In a past life, I worked for the BBC as a journalist and broadcast assistant for regional services in the east of England – constantly trying to find stories that related to cars!

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