Few know about the explosion of small and cheap electric cars in China

A phenomenon barely known around the world is the silent revolution taking place in China with the enormous rise of small, cheap electric cars.

While the Western world focuses on the large manufacturers of electric cars and their high-end models, which are the ones that provide them with the highest margins and “prestige”, in China they are doing just the opposite, generating an explosion of small and cheap electric cars, with several companies dedicated to manufacturing mainly this type of models, such as: Wuling, Chery, Geely, Great Wall Motors, etc.

This phenomenon, little known outside the Asian giant, has the potential to change the landscape of the global automobile market and strengthen China's position as the undisputed leader in electric mobility.

In China, small, cheap electric cars, known as "mini EVs," have become a runaway success. In 2023, more than 1.3 million units were sold, representing a growth of 70% compared to the previous year. And this trend is driven by various factors:

• Affordable prices: Mini EVs are priced significantly lower than traditional electric cars. Some models can be purchased for much less than 10,000 euros, which makes them accessible to a much wider audience.
• Suitable for urban life: These cars are small and agile, ideal for city driving. Its size makes parking and maneuvering on narrow streets easier.
• Low maintenance costs: Electric motors are simpler and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines. Additionally, the price of electricity is generally lower than the price of fuel.

In the video below you can see a model of this type of car. It costs about 5,000 euros, and has a range of up to 170 km on a charge. Ideal for use in a city on a daily basis

They are simple cars, with hardly any extras, and very cheap that solve many of people's problems, especially in a small city, which is where they are having the most success. But it must be taken into account that small Chinese cities have around 4 million people, and that means the sale of many cars.

We must keep in mind that the rise of mini EVs not only benefits Chinese consumers, but also has important repercussions for the country as a whole:

• Market dominance: China is already the largest producer and seller of electric cars in the world. The growth of the mini EV segment will further consolidate its dominant position in the global market.
• Energy independence: Reducing dependence on foreign oil is a priority for China. Electric cars contribute to this goal by being more efficient and using a renewable energy source.
• Technological leadership: China is investing very heavily in research and development of technology for electric vehicles. Mini EVs are an ideal testing ground for new technologies and innovative solutions.

And the expansion of Chinese mini EVs can almost certainly have a significant impact on the global automobile market, because it means:

• Fierce competition: Traditional automobile manufacturers will face stiff competition from Chinese brands. This could force them to lower their prices and improve their offerings to compete in the market.
• Democratization of the electric car: Mini EVs make electric mobility more accessible to a wider public. This could accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles around the world.
• Design change: The success of mini EVs could influence the design of electric cars of the future, with a focus on efficiency, practicality and affordability.

But despite the advantages, the development of mini EVs also presents some challenges that should not be forgotten:

• Safety: Some models have been criticized for their safety in the event of an accident. Safety standards need to be improved to ensure passenger protection.
• Quality: The quality of some mini EVs in general is much lower than that of traditional electric cars. Chinese manufacturers must improve the quality of their products to compete in the global market.
• Charging infrastructure: The development of charging infrastructure is crucial to the success of electric mobility. Governments and companies must invest in installing more charging points to facilitate the adoption of electric cars. And of course, China is already doing it.

In conclusion, the explosion of small and cheap electric cars in China is a trend that should not be ignored. This phenomenon has the potential to transform the global automobile market and strengthen China's position as a leader in electric mobility. Although there are some challenges, the mini EV revolution is already underway and changing the future of transportation.

And the question that arises for me is: when are we going to find out in Europe and the USA? It is more than possible that by the time we do it it will be too late.