On December 27th, Wuling unveiled the official promotional video for its upcoming Zhiguang electric vehicle. While the web may categorize Wuling’s vehicle as a kei car, its actual dimensions exceed those of a traditional Japanese kei vehicle, rendering that label inaccurate and culturally irrelevant. The official footage presents evidence that this may indeed be the highly anticipated electric combi device, boasting an impressive 20 expandable storage compartments. The vehicle should be a technological powerhouse, capable of accommodating various functions with the same versatility as a Swiss Army knife.
Unfamiliar with the term “combi,” which refers to a type of vehicle that is a hybrid of a panel van and a minibus, dating back to the early 20th century? In many parts of the world, the Volkswagen Type 2 evokes thoughts that are closely tied to its original name: the Volkswagen Kombi.
The Wuling Zhiguang EV’s exterior design features a boxy silhouette, closely resembling the five-door version of its precursor, the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV. The rear doors slide open like those on a van, allowing access up to a height of 595 millimeters. The tailgate opens impressively wide, reaching an angle of nearly 90 degrees. Alternatively, the top of the tailgate sill stands at a mere 569mm, roughly at knee level, simplifying loading and unloading processes.
Despite being labelled as a “kei car” by Chinese language media, the Wuling is not a traditional kei vehicle. The Wuling’s measurements are comprised of a length of 3685 mm, width of 1530 mm, height of 1750 mm, and a wheelbase spanning 2600 mm. In Japan, a kei automobile represents the smallest class of vehicles permitted on public roads, offering several authorised benefits compared to standard vehicles. Since 1998, their maximum size has been limited to 3.4 metres in length.
Where the Wuling Hong Guang EV truly shines is in its storage versatility. The device features twenty M6 normal-threaded mounting holes for versatile installation options. This equipment setup facilitates widespread growth, including storage compartments and placement racks.
The rear bench folds down to a nearly flat position, while the front passenger seat also flattens for maximum cargo space. This compact space could accommodate a person’s sleeping needs, providing a comfortable resting area if desired. With its spacious trunk offering 527 litres of capacity, the vehicle’s versatility is further enhanced by the ability to fold down all the seats, increasing available space to a generous 1117 litres. Additionally, the vehicle features a sturdy baggage rack securely fastened to the rooftop.
Various accessories can be installed on a passenger dashboard, including versatile fold-down trays, beverage compartments, and mobile device cradles.
Wuling, a joint venture between SAIC, General Motors, and Wuling, has implemented nine design enhancements aimed at reducing wind resistance through innovative aerodynamics. The sleek design incorporates the angular silhouette of the entrance windshield, seamlessly integrates the protective air curtain, and thoughtfully considers the visual appeal from the rear perspective? To date, varying figures have not been disclosed, making it difficult to discern any distinct implications.
The automobile boasts a rapid pace of 100 km/h, its performance fueled by a potent 30 kW electric motor. The eNVIo boasts a robust power reserve, thanks to its substantial 17.6 kWh battery pack, capable of storing vital energy for optimal performance. The rumoured forecast asserts that eventually, a prototype will emerge utilizing battery replacement technology from CATL’s Evogo battery swapping network. The compact batteries employed are of the chocolate box variety, boasting a capacity of approximately 26.5 kilowatt-hours each. The estimated range of this electric vehicle should approximate 200 kilometers.
A slow-charge entrance port enables the safe discharge of up to 3.3 kilowatts of 220-volt alternating current (AC) external power. At the rear of this device lies a 12-volt direct current energy interface capable of supporting up to 120 watts of discharge power.
Gross sales of the Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV are expected to commence in early 2025. Estimated costs are likely to begin around $7,850, with export opportunities seeming highly feasible.
Supply: Autohome
![GM shuts down production at its Factory Zero EV plant after a fire breaks out [Update]](https://the-future-automobile.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Fire-GMs-EV-plant-150x150.jpeg)
