- SAIC-GM-Wuling has launched a fully electric version of its best-selling Hong Guang MPV.
- The EV sports a sleeker design compared to the ICE version, complete with Tesla-inspired elements.
- Starting at ¥69,800 ($9,953), this model offers an impressive usage cost of just $0.014 per mile.
Fully electric minivans may be rare in the Western world, but Chinese buyers have no shortage of options. One of the most budget-friendly picks is the Wuling Hong Guang, now available as a fully electric model. The latest product from the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture promises low running costs and an eye-popping starting price of under $10,000.
Originally introduced in 2010, the Wuling Hong Guang saw its second generation debut in 2018. With a staggering 5.91 million units sold over the past 14 years, GM claims it’s the best-selling rear-wheel-drive minivan (MPV) on the planet.
More: SAIC-GM-Wuling’s New Concept Is Part Lancia, Part Sci-Fi Dream
The fully electric version brings redesigned, curvier bodywork, which helps it slice through the air more efficiently. The new, sleeker shape has dropped the drag coefficient to 0.32 cd—a 14.4% improvement over the previous, clunkier gas-powered model.
Up front, the EV sports a clean, grille-less look, modern headlights, and a wide lower intake, giving it the vibe of a slightly bloated Tesla Model 3.
As for dimensions, the Hong Guang EV measures 4,515 mm (177.8 inches) in length, 1,725 mm (67.9 inches) in width, and 1,790 mm (70.5 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm (112.2 inches). Buyers can choose between five-seater or six-seater configurations, with two or three rows of seating.
Under the hood—well, technically, under the rear axle—the minivan packs a single electric motor pushing 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS). Its lithium iron phosphate battery has a capacity of 32.6 kWh, delivering a 300 km (186 miles) range on the CLTC cycle. The real kicker? The running cost for the Wuling Hong Guang EV is estimated at just $0.009 per kilometer or $0.014 per mile.
According to Wuling, those who drive 42,000 km (26,097 miles) per year will save around ¥21,500 (about $3,100) on fuel and maintenance compared to an ICE-powered van. This means that in just three years, owners will have roughly saved up the equivalent of the EV’s purchase price.
Pricing for the Wuling Hong Guang EV starts at ¥69,800 ($9,953) in China—slightly pricier than its ICE counterpart, which starts at ¥46,500 ($6,631).
