Chengdu-based automaker Yema Auto has started sales of an electric version of its Spica minivan. Like the original, the successor blatantly copies the second-gen Toyota Alphard and only differs from it in the fake grille area.
The seven-seater is 4,580 mm long, 1,730 mm wide and 1,825 mm tall with 2.8 meters of wheelbase. Tires measure 195/60 R16. The only electric motor available churns out a meager 40 PS (40 hp / 30 kW), but can briefly supply up to 93 PS (92 hp / 68 kW) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque. Top speed lies at 120 km/h (74 miles per hour).
A 48-kWh battery should be enough for slightly more than 350 kilometers (217 miles) of NEDC-rated range, the company reports. Charging from 20 to 100% from a wall socket takes eight hours, but using a fast charging terminal will get you from 30 to 100% in 40 minutes.
The most basic specification lists two airbags, an air conditioner and tire pressure control. Higher specs add a sunroof, a power-assisted sliding door, side airbags, heated/retractable side mirrors, keyless antry, and imitation leather to replace all the fabric. Wheel designs and exterior trim details – such as the color of the pillars – depend on the trim version chosen.
Prices in China range from 109,900 to 129,900 Yuan. To put things into perspective, the BYD Song Max, which is an electric MPV launched in the fall of 2019, currently starts from 179,800 Yuan, while the locally produced SAIC VW Tharu can be obtained from 194,800 Yuan.
The gas-burning Yema Spica utilizes a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine good for 111 PS (109 hp / 82 kW) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. It comes with a five-speed manual box and a CVT to choose between, and starts as low as 49,900 Yuan.