The Wuling Hong Guang EV was the best-selling electric vehicle in China in August 2020, even outselling the immensely popular Tesla Model 3 sedan.
According to Automotive News, General Motors‘ Chinese joint venture partner, SAIC-GM, managed to sell 15,000 examples of the Hong Guang EV last month, outpacing the Tesla Model 3, which sold 11,800 units.
While the strong market reaction to the Hong Guang EV is good news for SAIC-GM, its popularity is bolstered by its low entry price of 28,800 yuan (about $4,200 USD). The Tesla Model 3, by comparison, starts at 291,800 yuan – equal to around $42,600 USD.
As we reported last month, the Hong Guang EV managed to attract 15,000 orders in the first 20 days of sales and had over 50,000 sales in total by mid-August. The four-seat hatchback produces a maximum of 13 kW (17.4 horsepower) and 85 Nm (62.7 pound-feet) of torque from its single electric motor and has an estimated range of 106 miles (170 km). Designed mainly as a cheap mode of transportation for city dwellers, the top speed is limited to 62 mph.
SAIC-GM is marketing the Hong Guang EV through a number of “experience stores” that are mainly be located in busy city centers. Compared to a dealership, these experience stores are more about branding than sales and have fashionable exterior and interior designs intended to elevate Wuling’s image in the eye of younger consumers.
While the Wuling city car is only sold in China right now, it may one day be available in other select markets elsewhere in Asia or perhaps even in Europe.
GM will eventually roll out its more expensive EVs in China, such as the upcoming Cadillac Lyriq EV. These products will feature the latest battery and motor technology and high-end interiors, helping GM compete with the likes of Tesla in China. That said, targeting entry-level consumers with cost-effective options like the Hong Guang EV will continue to be a focus of SAIC-GM going forward.
Comments
The Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV looks like the size of a Honda CRX or Smart Fortwo; but it’s the low $4,200 that would make the Hong Guang Mini EV attractive as a second car for a family to run errands on the weekend and if necessary still have enough performance to go on the freeway especially with a 106 mile range on a single charge.
This thing won’t go on a freeway (62 MPH max) and isn’t safe at all for a family (no airbags). By the time you get it up to speed and legal safety and keep the range, I guarantee it won’t be $4200 anymore.
Wuling Hong Guang translated into English is That Ugly Thing.
Tesla has out-priced itself, I would love to buy an electric car and I can afford one but at Tesla prices, I can afford any car and gas.
When will it show up in the USA? I’ll buy one!