The “4000 Euro Electric Euro Car” in China: Does it Exist and Can You Get it?

Short answer: it does exist. The Wuling Hongguang MINI EV has quickly become very popular in China's electric car market, catching the attention of people all around the world. As it’s a small and inexpensive car, it's selling better than big names like Tesla. In this article, we take a close look at this affordable electric car, what’s good and bad about it, and whether or not we might start seeing these cars in Germany.

1. Have You heard of the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV?

The Wuling Hongguang MINI EV’s unprecedented success in the Chinese EV market is a testament to the changing dynamics of electric mobility and the growing demand for affordable, sustainable transportation options. It garners international attention by outselling even Tesla, and becomes a symbol of China’s rapid EV adoption and the potential for budget EVs to play an interesting role in the global transition to sustainable transportation.

Let’s have a look at the numbers

The record numbers started in January 2021, when the Wuling MINI EV achieved over 36,000 deliveries, surpassing Tesla’s combined sales of the Model 3 and Model Y. Despite its modest specs, including a range of 120-170 km and a small 13 kWh battery, the vehicle’s affordability and practicality have made it a popular choice among Chinese consumers. Priced between €4000 and €5000, the Wuling MINI EV is accessible to a broader demographic, contributing to its rapid rise in popularity.

The Compact Look

The Wuling MINI EV’s compact dimensions (2,917 mm x 1,493 mm x 1,621 mm) challenge conventional car standards, but its price point and efficiency have overshadowed its size limitations. The vehicle offers a top speed of 100 km/h and can accommodate up to four passengers, catering to the urban commuter demographic seeking cost-effective and sustainable transportation options.

• Versatility in Variants: The Wuling Hongguang MINI EV offers different variants, including an upgraded model with air conditioning, providing consumers with options to choose a car that best fits their needs and preferences while still maintaining affordability.
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• Eye-Catching and Unique Appearance: It is a practical option for city driving, also stands out on the road due to its unique and eye-catching appearance. Its small size and distinctive design appeal to drivers looking for something different from the typical car.
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• Eco-Friendly and Efficient: As a fully electric vehicle, the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV produces zero tailpipe emissions, making it a green and eco-friendly option for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Its efficiency and electric powertrain align with global trends toward sustainable mobility.
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• Minimalistic Interior and Features: The interior of the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV is simple and functional, with basic features that serve the needs of drivers looking for straightforward transportation. Despite its low price point, the car includes essential amenities, contributing to its practicality.

2. Pros and Cons - What’s the Reality behind this car?

What are the Challenges?

Quality and Durability: The vehicle uses largely off-the-shelf and consumer-grade parts, which are not automotive grade. This implies a higher likelihood of issues cropping up over time.

Performance and Comfort: The car's top speed is capped at 100 km/h, and with small 12-inch wheels, it may not offer a comfortable ride on rough terrains or at higher speeds. The interior is quite basic with hard plastics throughout, and the car lacks many modern conveniences and features that are standard in other vehicles.

Usage Limitations: With no fast-charging capability and a limited range, the Mini EV is best suited for city use and might not be practical for longer journeys or varied use cases. The battery takes a considerable amount of time to charge, especially the larger 13.8 kWh pack, which could limit the car’s usability for some users.

What is truly outstanding?

Affordability: With a starting price of around €4000 the Mini EV is one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market. This makes electric mobility accessible to a broader demographic. The use of largely off-the-shelf and consumer-grade parts means that while the vehicle might face issues more frequently, it will also be cheaper to repair.

Design and Features: The Macaron version, in collaboration with Pantone, offers funky pastel colors and has gained a cult following, particularly among younger drivers. The car features a full-color digital screen for the instrument panel, providing a modern touch to the interior.

Environmental and Safety Aspects: As an EV, it produces no tailpipe emissions, contributing to improved air quality in urban areas. For families that might otherwise rely on scooters or motorbikes, the Mini EV offers a safer alternative.

Market Impact and Innovation: The success of the Mini EV has pushed other manufacturers to consider how they can produce more affordable electric vehicles. Wuling is expanding the Mini EV lineup with different versions, including a forthcoming cabriolet and a “long-range” version, showcasing the adaptability of the platform.

Branding and Perception: The vehicle, especially the Macaron version, is clearly aimed at younger demographics.

3. The Government Support

The Chinese government’s commitment to pollution reduction and EV adoption has played a crucial role in the Wuling MINI EV’s success. Incentives such as free license plates and guaranteed availability, coupled with the challenges of obtaining license plates for petrol vehicles, have made EVs like the Wuling MINI EV increasingly attractive. With plans to expand its retail and service network and potential aspirations for international export, the Wuling MINI EV represents a significant shift in the global EV landscape, challenging established players like Tesla and introducing a new wave of affordable electric mobility.

4. Can we get this Car in Germany?

The Wuling Hongguang Mini EV has created a stir in the automotive world, especially in China where its affordable price and practicality for urban driving have made it a market success. The question on many European consumers' minds is: Will this mini-electric revolution make its way to their shores, particularly to Germany?

The I-GO: A German Prospect

Mullen, an emerging electric vehicle manufacturer, has stepped into the arena with the announcement of the I-GO, a compact urban delivery electric vehicle made in China. This vehicle is EU-standard homologated and certified for sale in select European markets, including Germany. It has hit the German market in December 2022, with a starting price of €12,111 plus VAT and local transportation costs.

The I-GO is presented as a perfect fit for the European urban landscape, specifically tailored for the last-mile delivery sector. Its compact size, efficient electric powertrain, and practicality make it an attractive option for companies looking to navigate the dense, congested streets of European cities. Furthermore, it represents a sustainable solution, aiming to reduce pollution and traffic congestion.

While the Wuling Mini EV itself may not be directly coming to Germany, the I-GO represents a derivative of this mini EV revolution, adapted and optimized for the European market. With Mullen's strategic positioning and the growing demand for efficient, eco-friendly urban transport solutions, vehicles like the I-GO are poised to make a significant impact, bringing a slice of the mini EV revolution to Germany and beyond.

Conclusion

The Wuling Hongguang MINI EV's success marks a big change in the world of electric vehicles. It proves that cheap, practical, and effective electric cars can win over a lot of customers, even beating luxury brands like Tesla in sales. As this little electric car continues to shake up the market in China, its effects are beginning to show in Europe with new vehicles like the I-GO. This could mean that more affordable and practical electric cars might become popular all around the world, including in places like Germany.

FAQs

Is the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV available in Germany?

While the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV itself is not directly available in Germany, a derivative model, the I-GO, has been introduced to the German market.

What are the main challenges associated with the MINI EV?

The vehicle uses largely off-the-shelf and consumer-grade parts, has a basic interior with hard plastics, a top speed capped at 100 km/h, and may not provide a comfortable ride on rough terrains or at higher speeds. Additionally, its range and charging capabilities may limit its use for longer journeys.

What is the price range of the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV?T

The Wuling Hongguang MINI EV is priced between €4000 and €5000, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market.

What is the I-GO?

The I-GO is a compact urban delivery electric vehicle manufactured by Mullen, positioned for the European urban landscape and last-mile delivery sector. It is EU-standard homologated, certified for sale in select European markets, and has been available in Germany since December 2022.