Aiways has produced the first batch of its all electric U5 SUV in European specification.

A small number of vehicles destined for Europe were driven off the production line at Aiways' EUR1.73bn factory in Shangrao, China, at the end of November. The vehicles will be used by "to build anticipation" for the full European launch in April 2020.

Samuel Fu, Aiways president and co-founder, said: "This is a very important milestone for Aiways in the build up to the official European launch of the all-electric U5. These production examples will be presented to European media and potential customers at various marketing events across the continent, giving people a chance to see and experience the European version of the U5 before it becomes available next year.

Aiways' factory was built from the ground up in just 14 months to produce electric vehicles. The plant is currently able to produce 150,000 cars a year, and can accommodate an increased production capacity to 300,000 cars a year when demand arises.

The factory consists of a stamping plant, body shop, paint shop, battery packing station and assembly shop.

The new automaker claims its mid-size SUV will offer style, premium build quality and 503km battery range (NEDC). It first goes on sale in China later this month.

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