Arcfox T1 launches starting under 9,000 USD, set to compete with Geely Xingyuan and BYD Dolphin

Reports on manufacturing, labor and earnings with clear, practical context. Drives a Tesla Model 3 RWD; family hauler is a Volvo XC60.
The electric vehicle landscape in China witnesses a new entrant as Arcfox, a brand under the BAIC umbrella, unveils its latest offering, the Arcfox T1. This A0-segment hatchback, launched on September 11, 2025, aims to carve its niche in a highly competitive market by offering a blend of affordability and innovation. With a price range starting at 62,800 yuan (approximately 8,700 USD) and extending to 87,800 yuan (around 12,200 USD), the Arcfox T1 presents a formidable challenge to existing models like the Geely Xingyuan and BYD Dolphin.
The Arcfox T1 arrives with five distinct variants, each designed to cater to varying consumer needs. It offers two range options: 320 kilometers and 425 kilometers, providing flexibility for different usage patterns. Customers keen on the longer range can expect immediate delivery, while those opting for the 320-kilometer version will see deliveries commence in mid-October. This strategic launch positions the T1 as a viable competitor in the A0 pure electric segment, targeting popular models such as the BYD Dolphin and Geely Xingyuan. The vehicle's design embodies Arcfox’s Arc-Flow philosophy, characterized by its striking aesthetics and functional design elements.
Measuring 4337mm in length, 1860mm in width, and 1572mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2770mm, the Arcfox T1 is built to offer ample space while maintaining a compact footprint. The exterior features 18-inch multi-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the T1 impresses with its 8.8-inch LCD instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch floating central control screen, emphasizing the brand's commitment to integrating technology seamlessly into the driving experience. The cabin is equipped with an 'Extreme Clean Cabin' system, which uses a nano-level soft anti-fouling layer to ensure a low-odour, low-pollution environment, meeting baby-grade safety standards.
Under the hood, the Arcfox T1 is powered by a drive motor that delivers a maximum output of 70 kW (94 hp). The model offers two battery options: a 41.7 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery for the 320 km range, and a 42.3 kWh battery for the 425 km version. The latter is supplied by CALB, ensuring reliability and efficiency. This powertrain setup not only promises a robust performance but also positions the T1 as a practical choice for urban commuters and eco-conscious drivers alike.
The Arcfox T1 distinguishes itself with a range of smart features, including low-speed intelligent assisted steering technology, which reduces the vehicle's turning diameter by 30 cm, achieving a minimum turning radius of 5.2 meters. This makes the T1 exceptionally maneuverable, particularly in crowded urban environments. Additionally, the vehicle includes a 540° stereoscopic panoramic imaging system and level 2 advanced driving assistance capabilities, which encompass 12 active safety functions, ensuring a safer driving experience.
The launch of the Arcfox T1 is significant not only for its competitive pricing but also for its strategic implications in the electric vehicle market in China. As the first half of 2025 saw the Geely Xingyuan emerge as the best-selling model, Arcfox’s ambition is clear: to disrupt and capture a significant share of the market. The pre-sale phase already indicates strong consumer interest, with over 11,068 pre-orders within just two hours of opening, underscoring the demand for affordable, efficient electric vehicles.
As Arcfox continues to innovate and expand its lineup, the T1 represents a pivotal moment for the brand as it seeks to establish a foothold in the rapidly evolving EV landscape. With a focus on design, technology, and sustainability, the Arcfox T1 is poised to resonate with a new generation of drivers who value both form and function. The broader implications for the industry include increased competition, which could drive further advancements and affordability in electric vehicle offerings, benefitting consumers at large.

About Priya Nair
Reports on manufacturing, labor and earnings with clear, practical context. Drives a Tesla Model 3 RWD; family hauler is a Volvo XC60.