Skywell BE11 Review: The electric vehicle revolution has opened the doors for many unexpected entrants in the auto industry, and Skywell BE11 is a shining example of such disruption. Born from a unique collaboration between Skyworth, a Chinese electronics giant best known for televisions and smart devices, and Golden Dragon, a long-established Chinese bus manufacturer, Skywell is a new auto marque with bold ambitions. Their first car, the Skywell BE11, enters the increasingly crowded mid-size electric SUV market in the UK and other global territories.
Launched initially in China and slowly making its way to Europe, the BE11 offers a refreshing, no-nonsense approach to electric mobility. It doesn’t try to impress with unnecessary gimmicks or excessive flashiness. Instead, it focuses on providing value, comfort, and practicality—qualities that appeal to sensible EV buyers. With two battery options and a range that tops over 300 miles (WLTP), the BE11 finds itself standing alongside established competitors like the Skoda Enyaq, Renault Scenic E-Tech, Nissan Ariya, Peugeot e-3008, and Toyota bZ4X.
But what really makes the Skywell BE11 stand out is its origin story. This isn’t just a car built by a car company. It’s the result of two non-automotive companies—a bus manufacturer and a consumer electronics firm—coming together with a common vision to make electric cars more accessible. Does this fusion of industrial heavyweights result in a quality EV? Let’s find out.
Skywell BE11 Specifications
Here’s a complete look at the technical specifications of the Skywell BE11:
| Specification | Skywell BE11 (72kWh) | Skywell BE11 (86kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 72 kWh | 86 kWh |
| Electric Motor | Permanent Magnet Synchronous | Permanent Magnet Synchronous |
| Power Output | 201 bhp | 201 bhp |
| Torque | 236 lb-ft | 236 lb-ft |
| 0-62 mph Acceleration | ~9.6 seconds | ~9.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 92 mph | 92 mph |
| Driving Range (WLTP) | 248 miles | 317 miles |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Weight | 1,880 kg | 1,930 kg |
| Charging (AC) | Up to 11 kW | Up to 11 kW |
| Charging (DC fast charging) | Up to 120 kW | Up to 120 kW |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4,720 x 1,908 x 1,696 mm | 4,720 x 1,908 x 1,696 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,800 mm | 2,800 mm |
Performance and Battery Options
The Skywell BE11 is no speed demon—and that’s completely fine. With 201 bhp and 236 lb-ft of torque, it’s built for urban and highway cruising rather than sporty handling. Acceleration is modest with a 0-62mph sprint of just under 10 seconds, and the top speed is capped at 92mph.
Two battery packs are available:
- A 72kWh unit offering 248 miles of range.
- A larger 86kWh battery delivering up to 317 miles on the WLTP cycle.
This puts the BE11 in direct competition with mainstream EVs and gives it a practical edge for buyers who prioritize range over flashy performance. DC fast-charging up to 120kW ensures that long journeys remain convenient, allowing a top-up from 30% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
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Features and Technology
While the Skywell BE11 doesn’t try to wow you with rotating screens or futuristic gimmicks, it packs a strong suite of standard features:
Interior Features:
- Large 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Digital instrument cluster
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Premium faux-leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable driver and passenger seats
Connectivity & Tech:
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto support
- 360-degree surround-view camera
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Voice control integration
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
Safety Systems:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Traffic Sign Recognition
The Skyworth electronics influence is obvious in the BE11’s infotainment layout and smart connectivity, which brings in a user-friendly interface and practical digital features that outdo many legacy carmakers.
Exterior Design and Styling
The BE11 has a conservative, yet clean and modern design. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but offers an elegant and sophisticated look with sharp lines and a strong SUV stance.
Exterior Highlights:
- Sleek LED headlights with DRLs
- Aerodynamic front bumper
- 19-inch alloy wheels (in top-spec models)
- Integrated roof rails
- Minimalist front grille with Skywell badging
From the outside, it’s neither aggressive nor bland—just right for families or professionals looking for something fresh without drawing too much attention.
Interior Design and Comfort
Inside, the Skywell BE11 surprises with a spacious and tech-forward cabin. Thanks to its 2,800mm wheelbase, the BE11 offers ample legroom and headroom, especially in the rear. The materials used are mostly synthetic but feel premium for its price bracket.
Interior Layout:
- Flat floor and wide cabin
- Touch-based climate controls
- Customizable ambient lighting
- Generous boot space (around 480 liters)
- Rear seats fold flat (60:40 split) for additional luggage
There’s a certain tech-showroom vibe, reflective of Skyworth’s electronics heritage, which could appeal to gadget lovers.
Price and Trims
The Skywell BE11 is priced competitively to undercut more well-known rivals while offering similar features.
| Model | Battery | WLTP Range | Estimated UK Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| BE11 Standard | 72kWh | 248 miles | £39,000 – £41,000 |
| BE11 Long Range | 86kWh | 317 miles | £43,000 – £45,000 |
When compared to EVs like the Volkswagen ID.4, Ford Mustang Mach-E, or Hyundai Ioniq 5, the BE11 appears to offer similar range and features for several thousand pounds less.
Launch Date and Availability
The Skywell BE11 is expected to launch in the UK and parts of Europe in late 2025, with test vehicles already being evaluated under European safety and emissions standards. Initial markets may include the UK, Germany, France, and Norway, followed by expansion depending on reception.
Skywell BE11 Review Conclusion
The Skywell BE11 is not here to dazzle you with theatrics. It’s a well-balanced, practical electric SUV that plays the long game—appealing to families, commuters, and everyday users who need range, comfort, and space at a sensible price. Its real strengths lie in its affordability, interior tech, and efficient battery options, which should be more than enough to entice first-time EV buyers or budget-conscious drivers.
It may lack brand recognition in Europe, but Skywell’s background in electronics and commercial vehicle manufacturing lends credibility and technical maturity to its offerings. If the company can build dealer networks and provide after-sales support, the BE11 might surprise many and carve out a niche of its own in the growing EV landscape.
Skywell BE11 Review FAQs
1. What is the Skywell BE11’s electric range?
The Skywell BE11 comes with two battery options: a 72kWh battery offering 248 miles (WLTP) and an 86kWh battery offering up to 317 miles. Real-world range may vary depending on driving style, terrain, and climate.
2. Is the Skywell BE11 available in the UK?
The Skywell BE11 is expected to launch in the UK in late 2025. It is currently undergoing homologation and testing for European markets. Launch territories may include the UK, Germany, and France.
3. What is the price of the Skywell BE11?
The estimated starting price for the BE11 in the UK is around £39,000, with the top-spec long-range model going up to £45,000. Prices may vary slightly depending on local taxes and trim levels.
4. Who makes the Skywell BE11?
The BE11 is produced by Skywell, a Chinese automotive brand born from a joint venture between Golden Dragon Bus Company and Skyworth Electronics, a major player in consumer electronics. The car combines manufacturing expertise with digital technology innovation.
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