Global auto companies are competing fiercely with Chinese manufacturers in China’s local electric vehicle (EV) market. China is the world’s largest auto and electric vehicle market, and a piece of the proverbial pie means a lot. But it’s not quite competition, as epitomized by the Baojun Yep, a tiny electric SUV that’s part of the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture.
The Yep, the Baojun brand’s first all-electric SUV, is looking to win over Chinese customers with its smaller proportions and relatively affordable price.The local market price starts from about 79,800 yuan ¥$928,000 to $89,800 or ¥1.045 million.
Baojun is quite small. It measures just 3,381mm in length, 1,686mm in width and 1,721mm in height, perfect for China’s congested cities. For reference, the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny launched in India is slightly longer, a little lower in height and slightly narrower in width. But again for comparison purposes, the Baojun Yep is bigger in size than the MG Comet EV recently launched in India.
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The Baojun Yep EV weighs just 1,006kg and has the same three-door setup as the Comet EV. Cargo space is extremely limited, but its trump card is that with the rear seats folded down, there is around 715 liters of luggage space to carry. There is additional storage space under the front hood.
The most critical aspect of the Baojun Yep electric SUV is its battery and motor. At its heart is a 28.1 kWh battery pack and a single electric motor unit producing 67 hp and 140 Nm of torque. The company claims the battery can be charged from 30% to 80% in 35 minutes and the EV has a range of about 300km. Top speed is 100 km/h.
Although smaller in overall proportions, the Baojun Yue does borrow from the SUV style guide. The front and rear bumpers are black, as are the fenders and rocket panels. The front face is decorated with LED headlights, and the most unique highlight is the addition of a screen at the rear of the vehicle, which can be used to send information to trailing drivers.
Check out the cabin inside the Baojun Yep electric SUV.
The cabin is well-equipped, and the feature list is highlighted by a 10.23-inch infotainment screen, another 10.25-inch driver’s display, and a 360-degree camera.
First published date: June 2, 2023 at 10:04 AM CST
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