Shanghai (ZXZC)- The first battery swappable electric vehicle (EV) model built by the joint venture between Geely Auto and Lifan Technology is named "Maple 60S" and is likely to hit the market next month, according to Maple, a NEV maker backed by Geely Technology Group.

Maple 60S; photo credit: Maple

The photos released by Maple show that the soon-to-come model features a closed-up grille with Maple's logo at the exact center. Below the grille is sectional-type air intakes that render fair sports essence.

Maple 60S; photo credit: Maple

The Maple 60S sedan measures 4,730mm, 1,804mm and 1,530mm in length, width and height respectively. Its wheelbase spans 2,700mm.

The swappable battery used in the new model is supplied by Gotion High-Tech, allowing a NEDC-rated range of 415km. The Maple 60S also carries a permanent magnet synchronous motor that churns out up to 100kW and 230 N·m.

The new model will be mainly deployed for ride-hailing and taxi services, said Maple.

Geely Auto and Lifan Technology announced in last Dec. the plan to build a 50/50 joint venture involving a registered capital of 600 million yuan ($94.5 million).

Geely Auto said the ultimate goal of the joint venture foundation is to help Lifan Technology fulfill its industrial transition and upgrade through R&D, sales, and operation of vehicles (including but not limited to battery swappable models). Besides, the joint venture will also contribute to Geely brand's aspiration to move upscale.

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, the parent of Geely Automobile, claimed in last Sept. it wanted to set up 5,000 battery swapping stations for EVs in China by 2025. The relevant service is called E-Energee.