How does it compare?
Comparing the ORA Funky Cat to EVs in its class is akin to sorting amino acids from proteins. We’re talking about technology on the cusp of revolutionary with some models lingering just behind.
Range
First, let’s dive into the range. The ORA Funky Cat boasts a respectable 310 km (193 miles), but how does it stack up against competitors? Take the Renault Zoe, for example, which offers an impressive 395 km (245 miles) on a full charge. Then theres the Nissan Leaf that clocks in around 364 km (226 miles). Meanwhile, the Mini Electric barely tips the scale with 235 km (146 miles), and the BMW i3 comes in at 308 km (191 miles). Quite a mix, but the Funky Cat isn’t exactly stuck in the slow lane here.
Acceleration
Next, let’s handle the acceleration bit. The ORA Funky Cat surges from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, which is fairly snappy for its breed. By contrast, the Renault Zoe makes the dash in 11.4 seconds, dragging its heels a bit. The Nissan Leaf moves quicker at 7.9 seconds while the Mini Electric shows some promise with 7.3 seconds. Close, but then you’ve got the BMW i3 leading the pack at 7.2 seconds. Not exactly a dogs breakfast, but close.
Power
Let’s talk raw power. The ORA Funky Cat struts in with 171 horsepower (127 kW). How does the competition fare? The Renault Zoe pumps out 110 hp (82 kW), which, let’s face it, is a bit underwhelming. The Nissan Leaf comes alive with 147 hp (110 kW), the Mini Electric flexes up to 181 hp (135 kW), and the BMW i3 polishes off with 168 hp (125 kW). Remarkably, the Funky Cat holds its own well in this arena.
Charging Time
Charging times are a pain, no doubt, but essential. The ORA Funky Cat needs around 8 hours on a standard home charger. The efficiency gods smile on the Renault Zoe with 9-10 hours. The Nissan Leaf charges in 7.5 hours, the Mini Electric does the same at roughly 7.5 hours, and the BMW i3 wraps it up in about 6 hours. No clear-cut winner, but not bad for a Chinese entry.
Price
Finally, let the wallet speak. The ORA Funky Cat debuts at an astonishing $15,600 (approx £11,300 or €13,000). The Renault Zoe bites deeper into savings at $28,000 (approx £20,300 or €23,400). The evergreen Nissan Leaf asks for $27,800 (around £20,200 or €23,200). The Mini Electric commands a princely $29,900 (roughly £21,800 or €25,000). The BMW i3 doesn’t come cheap either at $44,450 (approximately £32,500 or €37,200). Bargain gem the Funky Cat certainly is!
In essence, among the hodgepodge of compact EVs, the ORA Funky Cat may just be the kitschy-cool disruptor with a right blend of price, power, and panache.


