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.
