They almost always have bright colors and comic stickers: in China, minicars that can be customized as fashion accessories are revolutionizing electric cars in the most remote corners of the country.
The Asian giant aims to sell mainly electric or hybrid vehicles by 2035. But if in large urban agglomerations and wealthy neighborhoods, high-end models from Tesla and Chinese rival BYD are the most popular, however in less developed regions, the preferred choice is the Hongguang Mini from the local brand Wuling. This small two-door electric car has already sold more than 1.2 million units. The cost is also mini, starting from around 30,000 yuan (3,900 euros).
They are born here
In Liuzhou, a city in southern China, with a population of around 4 million inhabitants, famous for its misty mountains and snail rice noodles, the Hongguang Mini (pronounced “Rongue-gouangue”) of the Wuling brand are produced. To encourage the transition to electric vehicles, local authorities have increased the number of charging stations and offer assistance and discounted parking.
The technique
The smallest Hongguang Mini is approximately 3 meters long and 1.5 meters wide and can accommodate up to four people. A lithium-ion battery guarantees a range of 215 kilometers, according to the manufacturer. Older models sell for around 30,000 yuan, eight times cheaper than a Model 3, Tesla's flagship product.
The competitors
Wuling isn't the only brand to offer electric mini-cars. Local manufacturers Dongfeng Motor, Chery and Geely have also entered this niche. But its cars stand out for their candy pink and lemon yellow body designs, as well as limited editions named after French pastries or Japanese game consoles.
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