How did this happen?
The Hong Guang Mini EV hit the market in July 2020, and within just 20 days, the manufacturer received 15,000 orders for a six-month period. This incredible demand multiplied eightfold, reaching a volume of 120,000 cars. As per the latest figures, within the initial two months of 2021, the Chinese-made Hong Guang Mini EV surpassed the long-standing leader, the Tesla Model 3, becoming the world's top-selling electric vehicle.
The remarkable surge in sales can be attributed to the Hong Guang Mini EV's incredibly low price. Priced at over 4200 dollars for the original version and around 5.5 thousand for the enhanced configuration, this electric car offered an unmatched affordability that significantly contributed to its soaring sales figures.
Tesla Model 3 Vs Hong Guang Mini EV Price
Hong Guang Mini Price- US$4,162
Tesla Model 3 Price – US$ 82,156
In contrast, the Tesla Model 3 stands at approximately 42,000 dollars within China's domestic car market, marking it nearly ten times more costly than the Hong Guang Mini EV.
But did the Price only provoke explosive interest in the Mini EV?
Reasons of Explosive interest in the Hong Guang Mini EV: Top-Selling Electric Vehicle
Wider Range of EVs
Initially, Chinese consumers had the option to purchase either high-priced electric car models or extremely affordable electric capsules priced from roughly one thousand to fifteen hundred dollars. However, these capsules didn't require a driver's license or meet any budget constraints, leading to the creation of the mini EV. Consequently, middle-income individuals and young Chinese buyers began adopting this car on a large scale.
In China, an extensive campaign to promote electric vehicles has been ongoing for over a decade. Starting from 2010, the government initiated subsidies for purchasers of eco-friendly vehicles. While this program has phased out over time, it successfully ingrained the notion that electric cars are not just a novelty but also practical and accessible for the Chinese populace.
Consequently, there are various state incentives available in the country for buying electric vehicles. These incentives range from discounts on parking fees and road tolls to credit reductions, and the Mini EV is eligible for all these programs.
For quite some time, residents in major Chinese cities have been seeking affordable electric cars that offer maneuverability in congested traffic and the convenience of easy parking, providing at least a comfortable stroll around the urban areas.
The Mini EV has aptly addressed the demands of drivers less concerned about high speeds or luxurious comfort, focusing instead on the need for mobility and a feeling of personal space, essential factors in navigating through bustling city traffic.
And yet how the mini EV manufacturer so cleverly got into the heart of Chinese motorists.
Angular in its design, the Mini EV exudes a resemblance to the distinctively cubic Japanese k cars, boasting a compact length of 2.9 meters and a width of 1.5 meters.
Resembling a cube from a child's construction set, this Mini EV sports tiny wheels but houses a 13-kW technical setup. Despite its appearance, the electric motor generates a modest 17.4 horsepower, offering a maximum speed of 100 kilometers per hour.
Despite its seemingly basic nature, the Mini EV surpasses being just a simplistic mini car. Lacking features like a glove compartment or adjustable steering wheel, and without rear seats, the vehicle still boasts several useful options. It comes equipped with ABS, tire pressure sensors, rear parking sensors, power windows, a stereo system, and even air conditioning. Among the Mini EV's technical highlights are its intelligent control system and battery preheating for low temperatures.
Interestingly, the manufacturer has ensured the monitoring of battery status via a dedicated mobile application. However, the battery itself has a relatively low power capacity, providing a charging range of approximately 120 kilometers in the basic model and up to 170 kilometers in the top-end configuration. This range is quite sufficient for urban commutes, especially when considering the option to charge the electric car either at a personal garage outlet or at one of the available charging stations.
Hong Guang Mini EV: Top-Selling Electric Vehicle
It's fascinating to note that the journey from the concept stage to mass production of the Mini EV took a mere 12 months. This incredible success can be largely attributed to the efficient collaboration among SAIC Motor, Liu Xiaoling Motors, and General Motors in a joint venture.
The involvement of the renowned global automotive giant has enabled Chinese manufacturers to compete with leading companies like Tesla in the realm of electrification. It also accelerated vehicle production through the utilization of proven technologies, consequently leading to significant reductions in costs. Interestingly, the Mini EV has benefited from the same technological advancements long employed by General Motors in its primary lineup.
With the combination of affordable labor costs, simplistic finishing materials, minimal complex electronic features, and government subsidies for electric vehicle manufacturers, the remarkably low cost of the Mini EV in the midst of its sales surge in China seems quite natural.
The top-selling Electric Vehicle, the Mini EV, might face hurdles in hitting American and European roads due to its limited top speed, lower power, and distinctive Japanese K-style design. These unique features could pose challenges for its adoption and resale in these regions, despite its popularity in China.
However, the Mini EV is poised to maintain its record-breaking streak. Considering that China already represents 50 percent of global electric vehicle sales, and with the government aiming for electric and hybrid vehicles to constitute half of its new vehicle fleet by 2035, the Mini EV is likely to continue its success trajectory in the Chinese market.
Hong Guang Mini EV
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