With electric vehicles (EVs), many of the heavy or bulky components that were needed by a traditional internal combustion engine drivetrain are no longer present. Not only is there weight-saving but less space is also wasted. For designers, there’s a new freedom, just as the switch to front-wheel drive gave interior designers more volume for cabin packaging.
Depending on how bold they are, the designers can now depart from traditional forms that have been used for decades and introduce new styles that may or may not catch on. Perhaps that’s what the designers at SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile had in mind when they came up with this new compact EV.
Remember the Multipla?
Known as the Kiwi EV (previously designated E300), it joins the 11-year old Baojun brand’s line-up which is made up of low-cost models for the Chinese market. The new interstellar geometry design language of the brand is used for the avant-garde split body styling which may bring to mind the Fiat Multipla. The split body design incorporates a front bumper style which echoes the pattern of radar waves.
Like the Multipla, which was regarded as one of the ugliest cars produced, the Kiwi EV has the sort of appearance that will ‘make or break’. The designers probably made a case that its ‘distinct and personalized appearance’ will appeal to younger consumers who may be tried of the conventional look.
Priced from RM45,000
Customers can choose from 6 exterior colours and each one features its own decorative scheme, taking full advantage of the ‘suspended cab’ concept that gives the vehicle its unique look. Depending on the colour choice, the combinations span up to 3 body tones with contrasting accents on the roof, grille, mirrors, trim and wheels. There are two versions with prices ranging from 69,800 RMB (about RM45,000) to 78,800 RMB (about RM51,000).
Baojun highlights the tech features in the Kiwi EV, and besides its own telematics 2.0 system, it has an artificial intelligence voice interaction system, real-time road navigation, voice-controlled WeChat function and a mobile app for convenient management of functions.
Shorter than a Perodua Axia
The Kiwi EV is 2894 mm long, 1655 mm wide and 1595 mm high, with a 2020 mm wheelbase, which makes it shorter than a Perodua Axia. It comes with a McPherson independent suspension and double wishbone independent suspension design, for a comfortable rid
The powertrain employs synchronous fixed ratio gearbox and the electric motor is mounted behind for rear-wheel-drive. It can generate up to 40 kW of maximum power and 150 Nm of maximum torque which comes on instantaneously. The top speed is claimed to be 100 km/h with a range of just over 300 kms. The battery pack, which can have a capacity of up to 31.9 kWh, supports DC fast charging and an hour is said to be the time needed for charging to full capacity.
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