Fifth‑generation Wuling Hongguang MINIEV launched, priced at ¥44,800–54,800

New generation, same mission

SAIC‑GM‑Wuling (上汽通用五菱), selling under the Wuling (五菱) brand, has launched the fifth‑generation Hongguang MINIEV (宏光 MINIEV), a refresh of China’s best‑selling micro‑EV aimed at city commuters and budget buyers. The official guide price is ¥44,800–54,800, while it has been reported that replacement subsidy pricing will range from ¥42,800 to ¥51,800. Short and sweet: more style and tech, same ultra‑low price point.

Specs and features

The new MINIEV keeps its compact footprint (3,268 × 1,520 × 1,575 mm) and 2,190 mm wheelbase but tightens the turning radius to 4.5 m. Buyers can choose 205 km or 301 km range variants across four trims; the car uses a 30 kW motor supplied by Liuzhou Saike (柳州赛克) and posts energy consumption as low as 8.9 kWh/100 km. It has a surprisingly practical interior: 20 storage spaces, up to 838 L with seats folded, 793 mm fore‑and‑aft legroom, and three retro paint options produced with an eight‑layer pearlescent process.

Cockpit and charging

It has been reported that the fifth‑gen adopts a stalk shifter, a multifunction steering wheel and a 10.1‑inch “scenario” touchscreen with a playful new UI and a slide‑down control center for quick access. Remote functions via smartphone app and OTA capability are included; the manufacturer says the car will support CarPlay, HiCar and CarLink via future updates. Charging-wise it offers DC fast‑charge plus two other charging modes — the company claims “one‑charge‑per‑week” commuting is realistic for many users.

Why it matters

The MINIEV line helped establish the low‑cost EV segment in China and this update underscores how manufacturers are layering more tech and design at budget prices. These models remain primarily domestic plays, largely insulated from Western sanctions, but broader trade tensions and global chip shortages continue to shape supply chains for Chinese automakers. For urban drivers and first‑time EV buyers, the fifth‑generation MINIEV is a reminder that electric mobility in China is increasingly about affordability plus polish.