BAW Yuanbao Is Another $5k EV From China Set To Rival Wuling’s HongGuang Mini EV

BAW has unveiled the Yuanbao, a tiny EV for the Chinese market designed to compete with the popular Wuling HongGuang Mini EV, as well as with the very similar Chery QQ Ice Cream and Dongfeng FengGuang Mini EV models.

The design of the BAW Yuanbao looks quite familiar, trying hard to replicate its popular rivals with two-box proportions, squared lighting units, tiny 13-inch wheels, and simple styling cues. Vivid colors including the pictured pink are offered to attract female buyers which is the main target group for this type of vehicle. As reported by Car News China, the Yuanbao name represents a type of gold and silver ingot used in imperial China, which symbolizes wealth and strength.

Measuring 3,162 mm (124.5 inches) long, 1,498 mm (59 inches) wide, and 1,585 mm (62.4 inches) tall, with a 2,050 mm (80.7 inches) wheelbase, the BAW Yuanbao is slightly larger than its main competitors, with the exception of the height.

Inside, the fully digital cockpit comprises dual 10.25-inch screens in a single free-standing panel. The minimalist dashboard has connected climate vents, body-colored accents, and a storage net instead of a glovebox, while the two-spoke steering wheel has integrated buttons with a very simple design. Equipment includes a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, ABS, and hill-start assist, with only the high-spec trims getting airbags. Despite the small footprint, there are four seats inside the Yuanbao, although the space at the back looks cramped and the boot is tiny.

The EV is fitted with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 27 hp (20 kW / 27 PS) and 85 Nm (62.7 lb-ft) of torque, allowing a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph). Depending on the variant, the battery has a capacity of 9.6 kWh or 13.6 kWh, offering an advertised range of 120 km (75 miles) or 170 km (106 miles) respectively.

The BAW Yuanbao is priced between ¥33,900-49,900 in China, which is the equivalent of $5,060-7,450 and very similar to its competitors. Following the three-door model, BAW will also launch a longer five-door variant with a restyled body featuring many SUV references. BAW (Beijing Auto Works) used to be a subsidiary of BAIC (Beijing Auto Industry Corporation) but is now a standalone brand after a recent separation deal.