Wuling Zhiguang EV bows in China

Wuling, a Chinese automaker known for its affordable EVs, has unveiled a microvan called the Zhiguang EV. It’s expected to become available in several days or weeks and start from a low 50,000 Yuan.

Sized 3,685 x 1,530 x 1,750 mm roughly (144 x 60 x 68 inches) large, the car is subcompact and has a wheelbase spanning 2.6 meters (101.5 inches). It offers a fairly large trunk at 527 liters (18.6 cubic feet) and can go further to 1,117 liters (39.4 cu. ft.) with some seats folded down.

The interior is as laconic as it gets. The instruments are all digital and there is no infotainment system on board – just a radio with a USB port. A single airbag and a basic AC are included, but that’s about all. On the upside, you can fold down the rear bench seat and end up with a level surface fit to sleep on – if that’s how you prefer it, that is.

Wuling also points out that the interior and the trunk have as many as 20 threaded holes that you can use to mount all kinds of accessories. These include shelves and drawers for miscellaneous items, a table with cup holders for the dashboard, a phone holder, and more. Earlier demos from the company showed the Zhiguang EV turning into a tool-laden mobile workshop, a street kiosk and even a camper.

The only motor available produces 41 PS (40 hp / 30 kW) for the rear axle. The battery supplies up to 17.6 kilowatt-hours of power, accelerating the tiny van to a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). Later on, Wuling plans to start offering the model with a bigger 26.5-kWh battery that you will be able to fast-swap at CATL’s Evogo charging stations all around China.