The Ora Funky Cat, a unique competitor to the Volkswagen ID 3, produced by Chinese company Great Wall Motor, now comes with an upgraded battery that provides an improved range. Previously, the electric hatchback offered a 48kWh battery with a range of 193 miles. However, customers can now opt for a 63kWh battery, which offers a range of 260 miles, according to the WLTP test cycle.

The First Edition+ model, equipped with the larger battery, comes with a price tag of £33,795, which is £1800 more than the standard Funky Cat. This variant also includes additional features such as heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, and parking assistance. Buyers of the First Edition+ model will also receive unique badges, mats, and keys.

Initially, only 50 examples of the First Edition+ will be available in the UK. Orders for this limited edition will begin on 12 October. Ora states that the First Edition+ is the first in a series of planned updates for the Funky Cat. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also being tested and are expected to be available across the range through a software update.

The Funky Cat made its entry into the UK market last year in limited First Edition form, with a 48kWh battery offering a range of 193 miles. All models come with standard equipment including adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, wireless phone charging, and wired smartphone mirroring.

The Funky Cat, with its larger battery, offers more than double the range of the similarly priced Mazda MX-30 and slightly more range than even the top-of-the-line Renault Zoe. There will also be a mid-range option with a 58kWh battery providing a range of 209 miles in the future.

All models are capable of charging at 80kW from a CCS fast charger, while standard charging options include 6.6kW single-phase and three-phase 11kW AC charging.