Driver Review: From a passenger to Driving a Dongfeng 007 in Singapore
We had the opportunity to meet George at one of the events organised by Dongfeng Singapore. A Sales Coach and part-time private-hire vehicle (PHV) driver, George shared how his journey with the Dongfeng 007 began as a passenger in Beijing before he eventually started driving one himself in Singapore.
From his first impression of the electric sedan to his current charging routine and experience with Velocity Leasing, George’s story offers a closer look at what it is like to drive a Dongfeng 007 Premium 200kW/272HP, the Cat B variant, in Singapore.
First Experiencing the Dongfeng 007 as a Passenger
George first encountered the Dongfeng 007 during a trip to Beijing in May 2025.
While travelling in a DiDi vehicle, China’s equivalent of ride-hailing platforms such as Grab, Gojek and TADA, he became curious about the car and asked the driver which model he was driving.
The driver replied:
“This is the Dongfeng eπ 007.”
George was impressed by his first experience inside the electric sedan. Looking back, he described the encounter as something that felt “destined”.
What began as a passenger’s curiosity eventually became a personal driving experience when George started driving a Dongfeng 007 himself in Singapore.
From a Petrol Car to the Dongfeng 007
George had driven several petrol cars before switching to an electric vehicle.
One of the biggest differences he noticed after changing to the Dongfeng 007 was how much less he spent on powering the car.
When he drove a Mercedes-Benz C-Class, George spent approximately $120 on petrol every week. With a similar driving lifestyle in the Dongfeng 007, he now spends around $120 a month on EV charging.
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | Around $120 per week on petrol |
| Dongfeng 007 | Around $120 per month on EV charging |
Based on George’s experience, switching from a petrol car to an electric car significantly reduced his monthly expenses.
Actual charging costs will vary depending on driving distance, charger type, charging operator, electricity rates and available discounts. However, George’s experience shows how access to reasonably priced charging can help drivers manage their monthly running costs.
How Often Does George Charge the Dongfeng 007?
George typically recharges his Dongfeng 007 once a week.
He shared that each charging session costs him around $20, depending on where he charges.
The EV charger near his HDB costs approximately $0.77 per kWh, while the AC charger at his workplace costs around $0.55 per kWh.
Since the charger at his office offers a lower rate, he chose to recharge the car conveniently while he is at work. George also shared that he can find EV charging stations easily around Singapore.
How Fast Does the Dongfeng 007 Charge?
When asked how quickly the Dongfeng 007 charges, George replied:
“Fast. Too fast to take a break.”
His response reflects how quickly a charging session can pass, particularly when using a faster EV charger.
Charging time will depend on several factors, including:
- Whether an AC or DC charger is used
- The charger’s power output
- The vehicle’s remaining battery level
- The target charging percentage
- Battery temperature and condition
Drivers should also keep track of their charging session and move the vehicle after charging is completed, especially at shared public charging points.
Is the Dongfeng 007 Suitable for Part-Time PHV Driving?
George uses the Dongfeng 007 for his regular lifestyle while also driving part-time as a PHV driver.
Based on his current usage, charging the vehicle approximately once a week is sufficient. His experience suggests that the Dongfeng 007 may be a practical option for part-time PHV drivers who have convenient access to charging near their home or workplace.
PHV drivers considering an electric car should compare:
- Their average daily driving distance
- The vehicle’s driving range
- Charging availability near home or work
- AC and DC charging rates
- Expected charging time
- Eligibility for their preferred PHV platform
- Servicing and roadside-assistance support
- Rental inclusions and accident excess
The right vehicle and charging routine will depend on each driver’s working hours, trip volume and weekly mileage.
George’s Experience With Velocity Leasing’s Customer Support
Customer support is another important part of George’s experience as a Velocity Leasing hirer.
When asked about the service he receives from Velocity Leasing, George shared that the support from his relationship manager is almost immediate on WhatsApp.
Responsive support can be especially important for PHV drivers because the vehicle may also be an income-generating tool. Questions relating to servicing, vehicle functions or rental arrangements may affect a driver’s schedule if they are not addressed promptly.
Velocity Leasing provides hirers with a direct point of contact throughout their rental or leasing period, making it easier for them to seek assistance when needed.
From a Chance Ride to Driving the Same Car
George’s experience with the Dongfeng 007 began with a simple question during a DiDi ride in Beijing:
“What car is this?”
That first journey as a passenger introduced him to the Dongfeng eπ 007. Today, he drives the model himself in Singapore.
His experience highlights the potential benefits of switching from a petrol car to an EV, including lower energy costs, convenient weekly charging and access to responsive customer support.
For George, choosing the Dongfeng 007 was more than changing to a different vehicle. It was the continuation of a journey that began unexpectedly as a passenger overseas.
FAQ
How much does it cost to charge a Dongfeng 007 Premium?
Charging costs for the Dongfeng 007 Premium, the Category B variant with a driving range of up to 650 km, will depend on weekly mileage and the charging rate.
Personal-use driver:
Part-time PHV driver:
Full-time PHV driver:
These figures are estimates. Actual charging costs will vary depending on the EV charging operator, electricity rate, charger type, driving conditions and total distance travelled.
How often does the Dongfeng 007 need to be charged?
The Dongfeng 007 Premium has a driving range of up to 650 km on a full charge.
A personal-use or part-time PHV driver may only need to charge approximately once a week, depending on mileage and the remaining battery level. A full-time PHV driver covering a higher weekly mileage may need to charge around twice a week.
Actual charging frequency will vary according to driving habits, traffic conditions, air-conditioning usage and the distance covered each day.
Can the Dongfeng 007 be used for PHV driving?
Yes. The Dongfeng 007 available from Velocity Leasing is approved for PHV use.
Its driving range of up to 650 km can help reduce the need for frequent charging, making it particularly suitable for full-time PHV drivers covering longer distances.
The Dongfeng 007 is also eligible for selected premium ride-hailing services on platforms including Gojek, TADA and Ryde.
Is EV charging cheaper than petrol?
Is the Dongfeng 007 suitable for part-time PHV drivers?
Yes. The Dongfeng 007 is suitable for part-time PHV drivers who want a comfortable electric sedan with a long driving range.
The Dongfeng 007 Premium offers a driving range of up to 650 km, which may allow a part-time driver covering around 300 to 450 km per week to charge approximately once a week. Charging frequency will still depend on driving habits, traffic conditions and the remaining battery level.
The vehicle is approved for PHV use at Velocity Leasing and is eligible for selected premium ride-hailing services on Gojek, TADA and Ryde.
