New Models / 10 April 2026 / Michael Taylor

South Africa’s cheapest electric SUV yet officially goes on sale – Pricing and features

The new Dongfeng Vigo has finally landed in South Africa.

For those who are unaware, Dongfeng is a Chinese car brand that made its local debut in November 2025.

It initially launched with a single car, the electric Box hatchback, which was later followed up by the upmarket electric 007 sedan.

While Dongfeng does not exclusively produce electric vehicles (EVs), it is a major focus of the company.

This is evidenced by the carmaker’s latest product, the Vigo, which is an all-electric SUV that will be made available in two specifications in South Africa.

The Vigo (known as the Nammi 06 in other markets) will have a starting price of R499,900, making it the most affordable electric SUV in the country.

For reference, this title is currently shared by the BYD Atto 3 and Geely E5, which both cost R699,900.

In other words, the Vigo has lowered the price floor on electric SUVs by a staggering R200,000.

It’s also the third cheapest EV in South Africa overall, only losing out to the R341,900 BYD Dolphin Surf and the R459,000 Dongfeng Box.

Powertrain

At launch, the Vigo will have two derivatives – the E1 and E3.

Both versions are equipped with a single front-mounted electric motor with 120kW and 230Nm, letting the SUV accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in a brisk 7.8 seconds.

The entry-level E1 uses a 44.94kWh battery, which affords a driving range of 401km based on the Chinese Light Testing Cycle (CLTC).

However, on the more widely recognised Worldwide Harmonised Light Duty Testing Protocol (WLTP), its range is closer to 300km.

The battery supports DC charging speeds of up to 60kW, which can top up the cells from 30% to 80% in around 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you can buy the E3, which has a larger 51.87kWh battery with a CLTC range of 471km (350km WLTP).

This version supports much faster DC charging speeds up to 167kW, which can recharge from 30% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

It also allows for AC charging speeds of 6.6kWh.

Features

First shipment of the Dongfeng Vigo arriving in South Africa. Source: Dongfeng SA

Standard features on the Vigo E1 start with 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, roof rails, auto-folding side mirrors, and a split tailgate opening to a 500-litre boot.

Inside, it has a multifunction steering wheel, keyless start, automatic air conditioning, leatherette upholstery, 6 speakers, a 50W wireless charger, an 8.8-inch digital driver display, and a floating 12.8-inch infotainment screen.

Additionally, the Dongfeng has a safety and assistance suite with six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring, traction control, electronic stability control, ABS, hill assist, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.

Those who upgrade to the E3 can expect 18-inch alloy rims, heated side mirror, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting with music sync, and a rear centre armrest with cupholders.

The front seats have six-way electronic adjustments, and the driver’s seat has memory settings and heating and ventilation functions.

The E3 also expands on the list of driving aids with adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.