Arcfox launches updated Kaola S electric SUV starting at $14,310

The updated Arcfox Kaola S features CATL's LFP batteries with a 520-km range.It will compete against compact EVs including BYD's Yuan Plus, Chery's iCar 03, and Volkswagen's ID.3.(2026 Arcfox Kaola S. Image credit: Arcfox)Arcfox, the electric vehicle (EV) unit of Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC Group), rolled out the 2026 Kaola S on Tuesday, featuring CATL (HKG: 3750, SHE: 300750) batteries as standard.The 2026 Kaola S offers three variants — Air, Pro, and Max — all equipped with CATL's lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, delivering a CLTC range of 520 kilometers.Their starting prices are RMB 99,800 ($14,310), RMB 109,800, and RMB 119,800 respectively. Join us on Telegram or Google News This represents a RMB 10,000 or 9.1% reduction from the previous generation's starting price of RMB 109,800.The 2026 Kaola S measures 4,500 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,820 mm.Powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 150 kW maximum power and 255 Nm peak torque, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.The vehicle supports fast charging, requiring 26 minutes to recharge from 30% to 80% battery capacity.The Kaola S features a 15.6-inch high-definition central display, with cabin functions powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.Its primary competitors include compact EVs such as BYD's Yuan Plus, Chery's iCar 03, and Volkswagen's ID.3.Arcfox ranks among China's earliest EV makers, though its sales performance has been lackluster in recent years.Its September 11 launch of the T1 compact EV, starting at just RMB 62,800, represents a key effort to regain relevance in the Chinese market.In October 2025, Arcfox launched the updated Alpha T5 SUV, expanding from only battery electric vehicle (BEV) models to include extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) options. Arcfox launches $8,820 T1 compact EV to regain relevance in Chinese market Arcfox said the T1 secured 26,558 firm orders within 12 hours of its launch. ($1 = RMB 6.9761)