The SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture has unveiled a redesigned version of its Hong Guang Mini EV, a vehicle that has become a dominant force in China’s electric vehicle market. Since its initial release in 2020, the Hong Guang Mini EV family has achieved remarkable success, amassing over 1.4 million cumulative sales. This new iteration marks a significant departure from the original model’s boxy and utilitarian appearance, adopting a more rounded and contemporary design. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a five-door variant, which enhances practicality while maintaining the vehicle’s compact charm.
The updated Hong Guang Mini EV features a softened exterior with curvier lines and redesigned headlights, drawing aesthetic inspiration from Wuling’s slightly larger Bingo EV supermini. Despite the design evolution, the Mini EV retains its identity as a playful and approachable small car, complete with its signature 13-inch wheels that emphasize its diminutive size. The addition of the five-door option stands out as a significant enhancement, making the vehicle more versatile for everyday use. For those who prefer the original three-door configuration, it remains available, with both body styles sharing identical front and rear styling. The side profile is the primary feature that distinguishes the two variants.
Dimensionally, the new Hong Guang Mini EV is slightly larger than its predecessor. It measures 3,256 mm in length, 1,510 mm in width, and 1,578 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,190 mm. Compared to the earlier model, this represents an increase of 336 mm in overall length and an additional 250 mm in wheelbase, which translates to improved interior space. This growth particularly benefits rear passengers, making the vehicle more accommodating despite its compact footprint.
Inside the cabin, the redesign is evident in the modernized dashboard, which now incorporates a digital cockpit with two separate screens. The center console includes physical knobs for climate control, ensuring intuitive operation, and a gear selector is conveniently positioned between the front seats. These updates reflect a focus on enhancing functionality and comfort for both the driver and passengers.
While SAIC-GM-Wuling has not disclosed all technical specifications for the new model, filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) indicate that it retains a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 40 horsepower. This matches the most powerful version of the outgoing model. Power comes from a lithium iron phosphate battery of unspecified capacity, and while official range figures are pending, expectations are aligned with the current model’s maximum range of 280 kilometers, achieved with its 26 kWh battery pack.
With orders for the revamped Hong Guang Mini EV set to open soon and initial units already arriving at dealerships, anticipation is high. Pricing details are yet to be revealed, but significant deviations from the current model’s starting price of ¥32,800 (approximately $4,500) are not expected. This competitive pricing, combined with the model’s practical updates and enduring appeal, is likely to further solidify its position in China’s EV market.