Wuling has revealed new photos of its tiny electric vehicle and its official name. Those who are up to speed with Wuling’s lineup probably saw this coming: it’s called the Hongguang Mini EV. That’s because the Hongguang name is also used on Wuling’s MPVs. [Update 4/17/2020]
Earlier this week, the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture previewed the first-ever electric vehicle of the Wuling brand, the Hongguang Mini EV.
The official photos only showed the exterior of the diminutive EV but now the Chinese brand has revealed new shots that give us a first peek inside the cabin as well. Wuling has also released the dimensions of the car and they’re definitely not consistent with our idea of how big a four-seat vehicle can be.
You see, the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV is only 2,917-mm (114.8 in) long, 1,493-mm (58.8-in) wide and 1,621-mm (63.8-in) high. The wheelbase is said to measure 1,940 mm (76.4 in).
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Despite that, it somehow offers four seats and Wuling goes as far as describing the interior as “surprisingly roomy”. The carmaker says it took inspiration from Japan’s kei cars which are small on the outside yet quite spacious inside.
The photos reveal “the trick” Wuling applied and that’s placing the rear bench seat where the cargo compartment would have been. Basically, this means the Mini EV can either transport four passengers and no luggage or two passengers plus luggage.
That’s because the rear bench seat can fold flat to create more than 740 liters (26.1 cu ft) of cargo space – when loaded up to the roof. According to the Chinese carmaker, that’s enough room to accommodate two 26-inch suitcases or a baby stroller. The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV also offers 12 storage compartments, including cup holders.
Styling-wise, the interior of Wuling’s first EV adopts a rather minimalist and functional approach. The dashboard features a digital instrument panel behind the steering wheel as well as climate control and audio switches further to the right. There is no center console, with the selector dial for the transmission being placed between the front seats.
Wuling did not reveal information about the Mini EV’s powertrain but Carnewschina claims it packs a 27 HP electric motor fed by a 13.82 kWh battery. While the top speed of only 100 km/h (62 mph) legally allows it to drive on the highway, most owners will probable never venture beyond city limits.
Wuling will launch the boxy Hongguang Mini EV on the Chinese market in the third-quarter of 2020.