JAC e-JS1 in the Blick test: the cheapest electric car in Switzerland

class = “sc-cffd1e67-0 iQNQmc”>

Longer, heavier, wider: looking at Swiss roads, large cars are very popular here. It is especially impractical in cities with many narrow streets and cramped parking spaces. And Swiss buyers still prefer to use internal combustion engine models, which are considered cheaper, rather than more expensive electric models (this is also interesting: this is what keeps the Swiss away from electric cars). There is now a wide variety of affordable electric vehicles on the market. The JAC e-JS1 is also a new addition: with a price starting from 17,689 francs, it is currently the cheapest electric car in Switzerland. So what can a small electric car made in China do? Blick tried!

before trip

When we picked him up from the importer Auto Kunz in Wohlen AG, we were told that he did not like driving on the highway. The pink-painted e-JS1 feels much more comfortable in the city. No wonder: with a length of 3.65 meters, the JAC e-JS1 is one of the smallest cars on the market and competes with models such as the Dacia Spring or Fiat 500e. There are no frills inside, just a lot of hard plastic. It appeals to our taste buds visually. In the middle of the dashboard we see an infotainment screen that can be connected via Apple Carplay or Android Auto. As the DAB radio is not factory-fitted, Auto Kunz renews the radio itself, as with all JACs.

on the street

For tall drivers, the cockpit will be narrow: the steering wheel is easily adjustable in height, but not longitudinally. There’s no room for the knees, but at least there’s enough room for the head to lift up. Positive: The JAC moves surprisingly quickly for a cheap electric car. While it’s not a stoplight runner with 61 hp (45 kW), it certainly has enough power to keep up with city traffic. Driven by the front wheels, the electric flea needs five seconds to go from 0 to 50; There is no indication in the data sheet for speeds up to 100 km/h. The smooth steering and solidly coordinated chassis make a good impression.

that was good

With a loading volume of 140 to 400 liters with the rear seats folded, JAC does not become the master of the reins. But for a shopping trip in the city this is enough – the small car impresses with its excellent maneuverability and can fit even into the smallest parking space. The standard range of 330 kilometers is easily sufficient in the city; but we only managed a little over 200 kilometers on the highway. At least there we could rely on cruise control – but there are not many assistants in the e-JS1.

he was bad

Theoretically, there’s room for three people in the back seat, but only on short trips. The seating position is noticeably higher than the front and quickly becomes cramped with long legs. But it is enough for emergencies and still for children. The infotainment system freezes occasionally, which can be annoying because most functions such as air conditioning and driving modes are adjusted here. The fast charger’s maximum slow charging power of 25 kilowatts is also out of date. The affordable electric car needs about 40 minutes to charge its small 31 kWh battery to 80 percent. But just in case: Most buyers will probably charge their JAC at home anyway.

what remains

The JAC e-JS1 offers basic mobility for city use; neither more nor less. And to be honest: Even a large, powerful vehicle cannot move faster in the city. The battery also offers plenty of range in urban environments; But the little Chinese aren’t having much fun on highways and intercity roads. The wallet will be happy: the starting price of 17,689 francs may be a decisive selling point for many.

Source: Blick