The SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) joint venture has opened pre-sales for the electric vehicle (EV) variant of its popular Wuling Hongguang MPV, available in two trims with prices ranging from $9,850 to $10,300. Since its introduction in 2010, the Wuling Hongguang has been a huge success, selling 5.91 million units over 14 years. With the shift toward electric mobility, the Wuling Hongguang EV aims to continue this legacy while adapting to modern trends in new energy vehicles.
The Wuling Hongguang EV has received several design updates, especially in the front fascia, which now sports a more rounded and streamlined look. The front grille has been replaced with a closed design, following the typical styling of electric vehicles. The brand’s logo has been relocated to the hood, adding to the sleek, modern appearance. The rear of the vehicle maintains a simple and square design, staying true to the boxy silhouette of an MPV. Additionally, the company has optimized the vehicle with 14 low-drag details to improve aerodynamics and enhance efficiency.
Buyers can select from three exterior paint colors: Polar White, Clear Sky Silver, and Tungsten Steel Gray. In terms of size, the Wuling Hongguang EV measures 4515 mm in length, 1725 mm in width, and 1790 mm in height, making it slightly longer than the current gasoline-powered version. The wheelbase remains at 2850 mm, providing ample interior space, while the vehicle's curb weight is 1275 kg, reflecting its lightweight design for an electric MPV.
Inside, the Wuling Hongguang EV offers a functional and straightforward cabin layout. It features rectangular air-conditioning vents, several control knobs, and a flat-bottom steering wheel for a modern touch. Safety-wise, the EV comes equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), an electronic brakeforce distribution system (EBD), and an optional driver airbag. An 8-inch floating central control screen is also available as an option, providing additional tech features for those who desire them. Other configurations include a key fob, one-touch window lowering for the driver’s side, a 12V on-board power supply, and a radio.
The Wuling Hongguang EV offers flexibility in seating arrangements with two available configurations: a five-seater (2+3) and a six-seater (2+2+2). In the five-seater version, the second-row seats can be folded down to expand cargo space, while in the six-seater version, all three rows can be folded down for increased versatility.
Under the hood, the Wuling Hongguang EV is powered by a 75 kW (101 horsepower) electric motor that delivers a peak torque of 180 Nm. The motor is paired with a 32.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack, providing a CLTC-rated cruising range of 300 kilometers. The vehicle supports both fast and slow charging options: it can recharge from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes using a DC fast charger, while charging from 20% to 100% takes 9.8 hours with an AC slow charger. The top speed of the vehicle is 135 km/h, making it suitable for urban and suburban driving.
The official launch of the Wuling Hongguang EV is expected to take place later this year. For comparison, the gasoline-powered variant of the Wuling Hongguang is currently priced between $6,600 and $8,600, making the EV version a slightly more expensive but eco-friendly option for buyers looking to transition to electric mobility.