Two contenders have emerged as fierce rivals in a race to dominate China's budget electric vehicle market: the Wuling Bingo and the BYD Seagull. These compact hatchbacks capture consumers' attention with affordable price tags and impressive features. Let's look at these electric cars and the battle between them.
Wuling Bingo EV, produced by the international joint venture between GM, SAIC, and Wuling (SGMW), has been making waves since its launch on March 29. In April alone, SGMW announced the delivery of a staggering 16,383 units of the Wuling Bingo. With a starting price of 59,800 yuan ($8,600), this budget-friendly EV offers a compelling package for price-conscious consumers.
Measuring 3950/1708/1580mm (length/width/height) and featuring a wheelbase of 2560mm, the Wuling Bingo is a 5-door, 4-seater hatchback. It comes with a 30 kW or 50 kW motor, delivering peak torques of 110 Nm or 150 Nm, respectively. The top speed is limited to 100 km/h, and the curb weight starts at 990 kg for the base trim.
The Wuling Bingo EV is equipped with a 17.3 kWh or 31.9 kWh LFP battery, providing a range of 203 km or 333 km CLTC (China Light-Duty Test Cycle), respectively. The price range for different trim levels spans from 58,800 yuan to 83,800 yuan, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Inside the cabin, the Wuling Bingo EV surprises with its twin-screen setup. A 7" instrument panel and a 10.25" infotainment screen greet the driver, reminiscent of the luxurious design found in the latest Mercedes CLA models. The seating is adorned with high-quality faux leather, adding a touch of sophistication to the interior.
The cargo space in the Wuling Bingo expands to an impressive 790 liters with the seats folded down, making it versatile for various needs. Additionally, an optional inflatable mattress in the rear allows for camping or leisurely city escapes, catering to the adventurous spirit of young drivers.
However, the Wuling Bingo EV faces stiff competition from the recently launched BYD Seagull hatchback. Priced at 73,800 yuan ($10,700), the Seagull made a remarkable debut, receiving 10,000 orders within 24 hours of its launch on April 18. BYD, a prominent player in the electric vehicle industry, aims to challenge SGMW's dominance in the budget EV segment with the Seagull.
The BYD Seagull features the e-platform 3.0 and offers two battery options. The first option is a 30 kWh BYD LFP battery, providing a driving range of 305 km CLTC. For those seeking an extended range, the second option is a 38 kWh BYD LFP battery, offering a range of 405 km CLTC. Both battery options support DC fast charging, allowing the Seagull to charge up to 80% in just 30 minutes.
Powered by a 55 kW motor, the BYD Seagull reaches a top speed of 130 km/h. It boasts dimensions of 3780/1715/1540 mm and features a 4-seater, 5-door configuration catering to the needs of urban drivers.
As the battle intensifies between the Wuling Bingo and the BYD Seagull, analysts in China have started to comment on the significance of this competition. Many view it as evidence that small internal combustion engine cars are becoming obsolete in the Chinese market, with budget electric vehicles offering superior value, features, and eco-friendliness.
The rivalry between the Wuling Bingo and the BYD Seagull showcases China's growing demand for affordable electric vehicles. With their competitive pricing, impressive specifications, and commitment to sustainability, both hatchbacks are vying for the attention of budget-conscious consumers. As the market evolves, it will be fascinating to see which contender emerges victorious in this battle of budget electric hatchbacks. @via carnewschina,
Country
