Skywell has slashed the price of its BE11 electric SUV and added a host of new features to compete more effectively against established rivals like Skoda Enyaq, Toyota bZ4X, and Nissan Ariya. The revised model now starts at £31,990 for the Standard Range variant and offers improved safety tech and interior amenities.
Key Takeaways
- Skywell BE11 gets a price cut of almost £5,000 across both range variants
- The car now includes advanced driver-assistance systems as standard to meet EU regulations
- A larger 15.6-inch touchscreen replaces the previous model’s smaller display
At its launch in July 2024, Skywell BE11 struggled with a lack of ADAS features and an underwhelming powertrain.
The latest revisions address these issues by adding safety systems like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The interior receives upgrades too, including heated and ventilated seats, Alcantara upholstery, and ambient lighting.
Despite the changes, Skywell hasn’t made any updates to its powertrain or battery technology for 2026. Both versions still use a front-mounted motor from BYD with 201bhp output and retain their original battery capacities of 72kWh in Standard Range guise.
The new equipment levels put the BE11 on par with competitors like Skoda Enyaq, which has been praised for its comprehensive safety features and comfortable cabin. However, buyers will have to weigh these improvements against Skywell’s less impressive driving dynamics and range figures from our initial test drive last year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BE11 now better equipped than its rivals?
The 2026 model matches competitors in terms of safety tech and interior features, but it doesn’t offer any unique selling points compared to established names like Skoda Enyaq.
Does the price cut make a difference for potential buyers?
The reduced prices certainly help Skywell BE11 compete more effectively in an increasingly crowded electric SUV market, but it’s still up against well-established models with strong reputations and loyal customer bases.
Skywell has made significant strides to improve the BE11 since its launch last year. While these changes address some of its initial shortcomings, they won’t be enough to overcome the brand’s relative obscurity in a fiercely competitive segment.
