LIUZHOU (China): The five-door variant of the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV will officially go on sale in China on Feb 22.
Developed by the SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) joint venture, this model is built on the new Tianyu-S electric architecture and measures 3,256mm in length.
Powered by a rear-mounted 30kW (40hp) electric motor, it offers a driving range of up to 205km (CLTC) on a single charge, according to CarNewsChina.
The new five-door Hongguang Mini EV builds upon the success of its predecessor, which was the world’s best-selling EV in 2023.
However, sales declined in 2024, prompting SGMW to introduce a larger and more practical version. The model remains a four-seater in its latest guise.
Unlike the previous boxy three-door design, the new model adopts a more rounded front end and integrates styling cues from the Wuling Bingo hatchback.
It also features an improved interior with an 8-inch infotainment display, an LCD instrument cluster, and a redesigned seating arrangement that provides additional space for rear passengers.
Compared to the first-generation Mini EV, the new five-door model offers a significant increase in usability.
The vehicle now includes 123 litres of boot space, which expands to 745 litres when the rear seats are folded.
Additionally, there are 19 small storage compartments throughout the cabin. Advanced features such as an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, non-inductive keyless entry, and a mobile app for remote vehicle monitoring further enhance its functionality.
In terms of performance, the second-generation Hongguang Mini EV retains a modest top speed of 100kph but can accelerate to 50kph in 4.9 seconds.
It is equipped with Wuling’s self-developed Shenlian lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which includes non-igniting cell technology and a multifunctional integrated structure.
Fast charging allows the battery to go from 30% to 80% in just 35 minutes. The car rides on the new Tianyu-S platform, which improves overall stability and driving comfort.
The vehicle will initially be available in three colour options — Bubble Green, Puffed Blue, and Sweet Coffee — each created using a seven-layer paint process. The interior features a unique "burnt cream" colour inspired by crème brûlée.
The second-generation Mini EV is also available in a three-door format though its manufacturer has not revealed much information about it.
What we do know is that both variants are 3,256mm long, 1,510mm wide, and 1,578mm tall. The wheelbase, meanwhile, is 2,190mm, 180mm longer than the first generation.
The minimum turning radius is 4.5 metres versus 4.2 metres in the first generation, meaning the newer model requires slightly more space to make a full turn.
According to CarNewsChina, the five-door version is expected to retail at around 40,000 yuan (around RM25,000).
Beyond its product advancements, SGMW continues to play a key role in China’s automotive industry.
The company recently became the first Chinese automaker to produce 30 million vehicles, a milestone achieved at its lean intelligent manufacturing plant in Liuzhou, Guangxi.
SGMW is also investing 29.3 billion yuan (RM17.9bil) in 138 projects to drive innovation in electric and hybrid vehicle development.
