Summary
- Wuling Hong Guang EV MPV costs $9,850 in China
- Can seat 5 or 6 people, has a max load volume of 98.9 cubic feet
- Features a 101 horsepower electric motor with a max range of 124 miles
- Estimated to cost $0.009 per kilometer to run
- Does not meet safety requirements for sale in Europe or the US and lacks safety features such as airbags and headrests
Article
The Wuling Hong Guang EV MPV, priced at $9,850 in China, offers a spacious and fully-featured C-segment electric vehicle for a bargain price. Built by the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture, this MPV can be ordered with seating for five or six people and offers excellent stability at high speeds and during lane changes. While not luxurious, it is practical and designed for carrying people or cargo, with a maximum load volume of 98.9 cubic feet. The electric motor provides 101 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque to the rear axle, with a claimed CLTC range of 186 miles and a real-world range of about 124 miles. A 30 to 80% DC fast charge will take 30 minutes to recharge the battery.
Wuling claims that the Hong Guang MPV EV will be very cost-effective to run, with operating costs estimated at just $0.009 per kilometer or $0.014 per mile. The manufacturer suggests that drivers can save approximately $3,000 annually if they drive 26,000 miles compared to a combustion-powered van. However, it’s important to note that this vehicle may not meet safety requirements for sale in Europe or the United States. While it comes with standard antilock brakes, additional safety features like airbags and headrests are optional or non-existent in this budget-friendly EV.
The vehicle is designed to be practical and versatile, suitable for carrying passengers or cargo. With its tall and slightly ungainly appearance, the Hong Guang EV MPV aims to cater to users looking for a spacious and affordable electric vehicle option. Despite its lower price point, the manufacturer emphasizes its stability at high speeds and ability to handle lane changes with confidence. The MPV weighs over 2,800 pounds unladen and offers a maximum load volume of 98.9 cubic feet, making it a suitable choice for those in need of a practical electric vehicle.
While the Wuling Hong Guang EV MPV may lack some advanced safety features found in vehicles targeted towards European or American markets, it offers a budget-friendly option for those seeking an electric vehicle with practicality and affordability in mind. With a claimed range of 186 miles and a real-world range of about 124 miles, the MPV provides adequate driving range for daily use and longer trips. Its low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking to save on fuel and maintenance expenses while lowering their carbon footprint with an electric vehicle.
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