electric cars

Until a few years ago, the Chinese market had mechanisms that we Europeans struggled to understand. The lower-middle class had cars of dubious quality at their disposal, and the wealthiest relied on European sedans with a longer wheelbase. Now this market is more in line than ever with the world trend and is the protagonist of the electric cars revolution .

China came out of the pandemic in a strong and decisive way, with a GDP even increased by 2.3%. On the other hand, the electric cars sector struggled slightly, with modest growth of 8%. A figure that contrasts with global growth of 39%.

With 30% of vehicles sold worldwide in 2020, China has established itself as an essential piece in shaping the future of the automobile. The adoption of electric is well-liked by the leaders of the country, a solution to limit dependence on imported oil. EV quotas are expected to grow by 50% in 2021 , bringing electric vehicles to around 10% of domestic sales, compared to 4.2% for registrations in 2020.

Hongguang Mini EV
HongGuang Mini EV 

There are two sales queens and you probably don't expect one name. Let's start with the obvious Tesla Model 3, which has increased sales exponentially thanks to the activation of the Gigafactory 3 in Shanghai . But the real surprise of 2020, with a smash hit, is the Hongguang Mini EV , a small and affordable electric urban vehicle that literally set a trend in the country. The little one is the result of the collaboration of SAIC, Wuling and General Motors and is offered for the consideration of only 3,600 euros. It has a range of over 160km, a top speed of 100km / h and space for four people. ABS and tire pressure sensors are standard, adding around € 1,000 you can also have parking sensors and air conditioning.

Hongguang's success has already brought competition to the market and it won't be long to export similar vehicles to Europe and the United States. It was our premise: the Chinese market can now set (some) rules .

source / autocar.co.uk