China, the world leader in the electric vehicle market, is engaged in a mad race for greener and more sustainable mobility. Until 2035 China wants electric and hybrid cars to make up the majority of sales.
This shift to electric is already well under way, especially in big cities and affluent areas where high-end models from the likes of Tesla and its Chinese rival BYD are all the rage.
Mini cars are more affordable
However, in less developed regions, there is a small revolution taking place in the form of the Hongguang Mini from local brand Wuling, a model we recently told you about on Auto Plus. This compact two-door electric car won over buyers, sold over 1.2 million copies. Its affordable price, starting at around RMB 30,000 (€3,900), makes it an attractive choice for many families. To support this transition to electricity, local authorities have set up charging infrastructure and are offering financial assistance as well as discounted parking spaces.
But in addition to the ecological aspect, buyers are attracted by practicality and style. With a bright and playful body design, as well as special editions inspired by popular culture, Chinese electric cars are becoming independent fashion accessories. Communities of enthusiasts are forming, ready to personalize their cars with unique elements.
China remains the leader in electricity production
This phenomenon is not only aesthetic, but also economic. Indeed, in addition to its environmental efforts, China is also benefiting from economic growth in the electric vehicle sector. In recent years, dozens of local brands have appeared.
This dynamism has been highlighted by the recent success of BYD, which has overtaken Tesla to become the world’s largest seller of electric vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2023.
It remains to be seen whether these Chinese minicars will make it to Europe, minicars that, let’s face it, however, it seems to be heavily inspired by the famous Japanese kei cars.
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.