Thai Motor Show
What next, What’s best, and all about.
DONGFENG M 500
The Dongfeng M500 is a light commercial vehicle designed for versatility, reliability, and affordability. Positioned primarily as a utility vehicle, it is often used for cargo transport and logistics. Its configuration options make it adaptable for various applications, from small business needs to specialized transport functions.
Type: Pickup
Engine size (cc): 2000-2800
Number of doors: 4
Number of seats: 5
1. Overview
Model: Dongfeng M500
Type: Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV)
Manufacturer: Dongfeng Motor Corporation
Target Market: Businesses and operators needing a cost-effective transport solution for city deliveries, small logistics, and utility use.
2. Exterior Design
Dimensions: The M500 has a compact yet spacious design, ideal for urban transport. Its boxy shape maximizes cargo space while maintaining a relatively small footprint.
Front Fascia: The M500 has a simple, functional front design with a modest grille and halogen headlights, focusing more on utility than aesthetics.
Wheels: Typically equipped with 15- or 16-inch steel or alloy wheels, suitable for heavy loads and rougher roads.
Body Style: Available as a cargo van with large sliding doors, rear double doors, and various roof heights and lengths depending on the trim level.
Rear Design: The back is designed with a simple bumper and wide-opening double rear doors for easy loading and unloading of cargo.
3. Interior and Comfort
Seating Capacity: Standard configurations allow seating for two to three people in the front cabin, with some variations offering additional rear seats.
Materials: Practical and easy-to-clean materials, with vinyl or fabric seats. The interior is straightforward and focused on durability.
Dashboard: A basic dashboard layout with essential controls, designed for ease of use with limited distractions for the driver.
Storage and Utility: The cabin has ample storage options with glove compartments, cup holders, door pockets, and small cubbies for tools and personal items.
4. Cargo Space and Capacity
Cargo Area: The M500’s main feature is its spacious cargo area, designed to accommodate various loads. The low floor height and tall roof options increase loading ease and cargo volume.
Payload Capacity: Typically around 1,200–1,500 kg, making it suitable for transporting light to medium cargo.
Cargo Access: Sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors make loading and unloading easy, especially in tight spaces.
5. Performance and Engine Options
Engine Options:
2.0-liter Gasoline Engine: Provides around 150 horsepower, which is suitable for city driving and light cargo hauling.
2.8-liter Diesel Engine: Delivers approximately 130 horsepower and greater torque, better for heavier loads and improved fuel economy.
Transmission: Typically available with a 5-speed manual transmission, although some markets may offer an automatic transmission for specific configurations.
Drive System: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, allowing better control and maneuverability in urban settings. Some models may offer a rear-wheel-drive option.
Suspension: Equipped with an independent front suspension and leaf-spring rear suspension, ensuring stability under load.
6. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type: Available in both gasoline and diesel variants.
Fuel Economy: Gasoline models achieve around 10–12 liters per 100 kilometers, while diesel models are more efficient, averaging around 8–10 liters per 100 kilometers.
7. Safety Features
Basic Safety Equipment: Dual front airbags, seat belts with pretensioners, and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Advanced Features: Some trims may offer features like rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and stability control for improved safety.
Braking System: Standard braking includes disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear.
8. Technology and Connectivity
Infotainment: Basic audio system with AM/FM radio, USB, and AUX input. Higher trims may offer Bluetooth connectivity and a simple touchscreen for media and navigation.
Navigation: Available as an option, usually in higher trims, with basic GPS functionality to aid in logistics and routing.
Driver Assistance: Some configurations include power steering, electric windows, and rear parking sensors to enhance the driver’s ease of use.
9. Additional Features and Variants
Utility Add-ons: Various cargo area options are available, such as built-in shelving, tie-down hooks, and cargo dividers to cater to specific business needs.
Extended Versions: Dongfeng offers extended-length models and high-roof configurations for increased cargo capacity.
Customization: Some markets may offer factory customization for specialized uses, like refrigerated models for transporting perishable goods or heavy-duty variants for construction materials.
10. Pricing and Availability
Price Range: The Dongfeng M500 is competitively priced within the light commercial vehicle segment, making it a budget-friendly choice for small and medium businesses.
Availability: Primarily available in China, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Dongfeng’s network and local importers often carry this model in regions with high demand for commercial vehicles.
11. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Spacious cargo area with good payload capacity for light commercial use.
Available in various configurations to meet diverse business needs.
Efficient diesel variant provides good fuel economy for a vehicle of its size.
Competitively priced, with a focus on value and utility.
Cons:
Basic interior and limited comfort features compared to passenger vehicles.
Limited advanced safety and technology options.
Limited brand recognition in certain international markets, affecting resale value.
12. Comparison with Competitors
The Dongfeng M500 is positioned as an affordable alternative to more established commercial vehicles like the Toyota Hiace and Ford Transit. While it may not offer the same brand prestige or high-end features as its competitors, the M500 excels in its simplicity, versatility, and low-cost operation, appealing to small business owners and budget-conscious buyers.
The Dongfeng M500 serves as a reliable and budget-friendly choice for commercial users. Its strong focus on functionality, along with adaptable cargo options and configurations, make it well-suited for various business needs, from logistics and deliveries to specialized services.
Model: Dongfeng M500
Type: Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV)
Manufacturer: Dongfeng Motor Corporation
Target Market: Businesses and operators needing a cost-effective transport solution for city deliveries, small logistics, and utility use.
2. Exterior Design
Dimensions: The M500 has a compact yet spacious design, ideal for urban transport. Its boxy shape maximizes cargo space while maintaining a relatively small footprint.
Front Fascia: The M500 has a simple, functional front design with a modest grille and halogen headlights, focusing more on utility than aesthetics.
Wheels: Typically equipped with 15- or 16-inch steel or alloy wheels, suitable for heavy loads and rougher roads.
Body Style: Available as a cargo van with large sliding doors, rear double doors, and various roof heights and lengths depending on the trim level.
Rear Design: The back is designed with a simple bumper and wide-opening double rear doors for easy loading and unloading of cargo.
3. Interior and Comfort
Seating Capacity: Standard configurations allow seating for two to three people in the front cabin, with some variations offering additional rear seats.
Materials: Practical and easy-to-clean materials, with vinyl or fabric seats. The interior is straightforward and focused on durability.
Dashboard: A basic dashboard layout with essential controls, designed for ease of use with limited distractions for the driver.
Storage and Utility: The cabin has ample storage options with glove compartments, cup holders, door pockets, and small cubbies for tools and personal items.
4. Cargo Space and Capacity
Cargo Area: The M500’s main feature is its spacious cargo area, designed to accommodate various loads. The low floor height and tall roof options increase loading ease and cargo volume.
Payload Capacity: Typically around 1,200–1,500 kg, making it suitable for transporting light to medium cargo.
Cargo Access: Sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors make loading and unloading easy, especially in tight spaces.
5. Performance and Engine Options
Engine Options:
2.0-liter Gasoline Engine: Provides around 150 horsepower, which is suitable for city driving and light cargo hauling.
2.8-liter Diesel Engine: Delivers approximately 130 horsepower and greater torque, better for heavier loads and improved fuel economy.
Transmission: Typically available with a 5-speed manual transmission, although some markets may offer an automatic transmission for specific configurations.
Drive System: Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, allowing better control and maneuverability in urban settings. Some models may offer a rear-wheel-drive option.
Suspension: Equipped with an independent front suspension and leaf-spring rear suspension, ensuring stability under load.
6. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type: Available in both gasoline and diesel variants.
Fuel Economy: Gasoline models achieve around 10–12 liters per 100 kilometers, while diesel models are more efficient, averaging around 8–10 liters per 100 kilometers.
7. Safety Features
Basic Safety Equipment: Dual front airbags, seat belts with pretensioners, and ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Advanced Features: Some trims may offer features like rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and stability control for improved safety.
Braking System: Standard braking includes disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear.
8. Technology and Connectivity
Infotainment: Basic audio system with AM/FM radio, USB, and AUX input. Higher trims may offer Bluetooth connectivity and a simple touchscreen for media and navigation.
Navigation: Available as an option, usually in higher trims, with basic GPS functionality to aid in logistics and routing.
Driver Assistance: Some configurations include power steering, electric windows, and rear parking sensors to enhance the driver’s ease of use.
9. Additional Features and Variants
Utility Add-ons: Various cargo area options are available, such as built-in shelving, tie-down hooks, and cargo dividers to cater to specific business needs.
Extended Versions: Dongfeng offers extended-length models and high-roof configurations for increased cargo capacity.
Customization: Some markets may offer factory customization for specialized uses, like refrigerated models for transporting perishable goods or heavy-duty variants for construction materials.
10. Pricing and Availability
Price Range: The Dongfeng M500 is competitively priced within the light commercial vehicle segment, making it a budget-friendly choice for small and medium businesses.
Availability: Primarily available in China, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa. Dongfeng’s network and local importers often carry this model in regions with high demand for commercial vehicles.
11. Pros and Cons
Pros:
Spacious cargo area with good payload capacity for light commercial use.
Available in various configurations to meet diverse business needs.
Efficient diesel variant provides good fuel economy for a vehicle of its size.
Competitively priced, with a focus on value and utility.
Cons:
Basic interior and limited comfort features compared to passenger vehicles.
Limited advanced safety and technology options.
Limited brand recognition in certain international markets, affecting resale value.
12. Comparison with Competitors
The Dongfeng M500 is positioned as an affordable alternative to more established commercial vehicles like the Toyota Hiace and Ford Transit. While it may not offer the same brand prestige or high-end features as its competitors, the M500 excels in its simplicity, versatility, and low-cost operation, appealing to small business owners and budget-conscious buyers.
The Dongfeng M500 serves as a reliable and budget-friendly choice for commercial users. Its strong focus on functionality, along with adaptable cargo options and configurations, make it well-suited for various business needs, from logistics and deliveries to specialized services.
