When the Wuling Mini EV sold a record 426,000 units in 2021, other carmakers started seriously thinking about expanding their own affordable supermini lineups, too. BAIC joins the battle now with the BAW Change Mini EV and the BAW Yuanbao.
The former is the wallet-friendlier of the two and comes equipped with front McPherson struts, 13-inch wheels, a basic multimedia system and an AC. Its electric motor makes just 24 PS (24 hp / 18 kW) and 74 Nm (55 lb-ft) of torque. As a city car meant for urban use only, it maxes out at 116 km (72 miles) of NEDC-rated driving range and doesn’t go faster than 80 km/h (50 mph). On the upside, you can get one for as little as $4,200.
The BAW Yuanbao is a marginally more sophisticated EV coming with improved trim options and a slightly more powerful motor capable of 27 PS (27 hp / 20 kW) and 85 Nm (63 lb-ft) of torque. Customers can opt for a larger battery and get 170 km (105 miles) of NEDC range, although the real numbers are usually smaller. The price amounts to $5,100 before options.