SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW), General Motors’ second joint venture in China, has just officially unveiled the all-new 2023 Baojun Yep EV in the Asian country.
The all-new 2023 Baojun Yep EV is the production version of the “City Fun Trendy Product” that SGMW announced late last year and until now, we knew it as the KiWi EV mini crossover. Although in the official images leaked by the Chinese media, the show car variant of the model included the KiWi brand on its grille, the automaker finally decided to give it a completely new name while renewing its commitment to the Baojun brand.
In particular, the all-new 2023 Baojun Yep EV stands out as the first all-electric crossover developed by SGMW, and at the same time the first zero-emission “kei car” utility vehicle in the entire global automotive industry. As such, the new Baojun Yep represents an unprecedented bet by the company that will launch a new category of small, zero-emission off-road vehicles in the Chinese market.
Aesthetically, the 2023 Baojun Yep EV maintains most the show car variant’s design, but with slight changes for series production and the adoption of Baojun’s Diamond Standard logo. In fact, the Yep EV introduces a new design language with a tough, angular exterior that gives it a very robust character despite its 133.1-inch length, 66.3-inch width and 67.7-inch height, while riding on a diminutive 83-inch wheelbase.
On a mechanical level, the most striking novelty and main distinguishing feature of the 2023 Baojun Yep EV is its rear-wheel drivetrain, with a permanent magnet synchronous motor mounted on the rear axle. The Yep EV’s powertrain generates a peak output of 50 kW or 67 horsepower, along with 140 Nm or 103.6 pound-feet of torque, powered by a lithium iron phosphate battery pack that provides an estimated range of 303 kilometers or 188.3 miles, according to the manufacturer.
The all-new 2023 Baojun Yep EV is expected to make its public debut at the 2023 Shanghai International Auto Show next April, and be introduced to the Chinese market in first half of the year. As is customary in China, details on the interior design and equipment features of 2023 Yep EV will be revealed progressively as its official launch approaches.
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Comments
GM quality + chinese quality = POS.
Looks a bit like a Bronco.
Beat me to it.
Yes, a short one. Lol
If I could get this in North America, I would buy it… A little disappointed that this vehicle “launching a new category of small, zero-emission off-road vehicles in the Chinese market” doesn’t have an AWD option. Kind of defeats the purpose of off-road capabilities.
I work at a Chevy store in Canada, and the demand for small EVs (new, not used) is through the roof. I can’t help but think introducing some smaller EVs like this to the Canadian market would pay dividends. Not everyone wants a massive Blazer EV, or wants to pay $$$ for one.
Next generation of Cadillac Escalade?
“Yep” ought to sell well in the American Midwest.
It is cool, but its is an EV
Make it in America Mary..and name it something else.
I was kidding about the Midwest, where everyone says “yep” or “yeppers.” Do you really think something this small will sell here?
I say build it in the America. ICE with EV optional and plenty of color choices. A little bigger tire would look better my opinion. Make the front end favor Chevrolet instead of a bronco.
Being an electric vehicle and not having to pass any kind of emissions regulations, could we potentially import new electric vehicles over to the states? This is such a neat little electric vehicle.