The Baojun E100, an electric car at $6,700: the Chinese will be breathing better!

Conscious of the poor air quality in China, SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile, the company that built the Baojun 100, wanted to be a participant in the introduction of a small electric vehicle. The Baojun 100 will compete directly with the Smart Fortwo.

Highlights of the Baojun 100

The small Baojun 100 offers a maximum speed of 100 km/h with a range of 155 km per recharge. The Baojun 100 is designed to navigate the dense urban environment and can accommodate two occupants. Here are its main features:

1. Range up to 155 km (96 miles) on a single charge

2. Able to travel on the highway with a maximum speed of 100 km/h (62 mph)

3. The Baojun 100 can be fully charged in 7.5 hours and uses regenerative braking to recharge the battery pack while driving.

4. The elegant, small urban EV measures 1,600 mm at its wheelbase, with a height of 1,670 mm

5. An compact turning radius of 3.7 metres, which means that it can easily be manoeuvered in and out of parking spaces and congested lanes in China

6. The Baojun 100 comes with a handful of basic safety features, including a pedestrian warning system, parking sensors and child safety locks.

7. It also includes standard anti-lock brakes, electric power steering and an electronic parking brake.

8. Independent front suspension, with a single arm at the rear.

Inside the Baojun 100

With its functional interior, the interior functions are varied and include a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system and built-in Wi-Fi. The premium version features a touchpad controller, keyless entry and a cabin air filter.

Sales of the Baojun 100 began in Liuzhou, Guangxi in July, but were limited to 10 vehicles. More than 5,000 people have asked to lay claim to the first 200 E100’s. However, only 500 more will be available in Guangxi soon.