Sales of the Kaiyi E5, a Chinese sedan assembled at Avtotor’s Kaliningrad plant, are kicking off this week, according to a statement from the car dealer Rolf. The announcement confirms that the Kaiyi brand has secured Moscow’s official representation, marking a notable expansion for the company in the Russian market. The first model entering showrooms this week is the Kaiyi E5 sports sedan, with production having begun at the end of January 2023 at Avtotor’s Kaliningrad facility.
The Kaiyi E5 is powered by a 1.5 liter turbocharged petrol engine delivering 147 horsepower. It employs a continuously variable transmission that emulates nine fixed gears when in manual mode, giving drivers a more engaged shifting feel. The sedan has been adapted to withstand Russian road and climate conditions, featuring heated seats, heated mirrors, a heated windshield, and heated rear windows. The body also benefits from anti corrosion treatment, enhancing durability in challenging winter environments.
Earlier reports indicated that the entry price for the Kaiyi E5 from Kaliningrad’s Avtotor factory could start around 1.6 million rubles. In higher trim levels with the CVT gearbox, the price could approach 2 million rubles, reflecting the model’s position in the market and its equipment package.