The electric city car market in China is seriously competitive and Wuling, a brand under the SGMW joint venture, just dropped its new Aishang A100C. This isn’t their first rodeo, but it marks Wuling’s fresh attempt to carve out its own space beyond the wildly successful Hongguang Mini EV. It is important to note that the Hongguang Mini EV was a product of the SGMW joint venture, which became the world’s bestselling BEV in 2021. Now, Wuling is trying to create its own successful car
While the Aishang A100C is an independent product, there’s no denying its resemblance to the Changan Lumin, almost like a grumpy twin. But don’t let the playful comparison fool you, Wuling is serious about this new entry, pricing it aggressively at 39,800 yuan (about 5,590 USD) to capture a slice of the bustling urban EV segment.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak power | 35 (51) | kW (hp) | Single electric motor, rear-axle |
| Peak torque | 83 | Nm | |
| Range (CLTC) | 220 | km | |
| Battery capacity | 17.65 | kWh | Gotion-made LFP battery |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 3285/1708/1550 | mm | |
| Wheelbase | 1,980 | mm | |
| Trunk volume (rear seats up/down) | 106 / 882 | L | |
| Starting price | 39,800 (5,590) | yuan (USD) | Four trim levels available |
Design and Exterior: A Nod to Cute, with a Hint of Grumpy
At first glance, the Aishang A100C is pretty charming. Its smooth lines, sleek blackened pillars, and aerodynamic wheel covers give it that modern city car vibe. But let’s address the elephant in the room: it bears more than a passing resemblance to the Changan Lumin. You might even call them twins, and you wouldn’t be wrong in thinking that these two seem to be targeting a similar aesthetic, common in the urban EV market in China right now. The main difference lies in its unique headlight shape, giving it a somewhat “grumpy” expression compared to its Changan counterpart. Beyond the distinctive face, it sports conventional door handles, a subtle air intake on the front bumper, and those classic circular taillights.
Interior: Smart and Space-Savvy
Step inside and you will find an interior that’s all about maximizing space and usability. The floating touchscreen and LCD instrument cluster are clear indicators of its modern aspirations, delivering all the essential information without clutter. Wuling thoughtfully placed the gear shifter behind the two-spoke steering wheel, freeing up precious real estate. This clever design choice also means no center tunnel, allowing for an increased sense of openness between the driver and passenger. Practicality is key here, with physical A/C controls that drivers will appreciate, and four seats with integrated headrests for a comfortable ride. There is also plenty of storage with a trunk offering 106 liters as standard, expanding to a generous 882 liters when you fold down the rear seats. Ideal for those weekly hauls or a weekend escape from the city.
Performance and Power: Urban Explorer
The Aishang A100C isn’t designed to win drag races, but it’s perfectly tuned for urban life. A single electric motor on the rear axle delivers a respectable 35 kW (51 hp) and 83 Nm of torque. Powering this setup is a 17.65 kWh Gotion-made LFP battery, providing an electric range of 220 km under CLTC conditions. That’s more than enough for daily commutes and city errands, making it a viable option for those looking to ditch gasoline without range anxiety.
The Price Point: Fighting for Market Share
Wuling has rolled out the Aishang A100C in four trim levels, starting at 39,800 yuan (5,590 USD). To put that into perspective, it’s just a hair pricier than the Changan Lumin (2,000 yuan or 280 USD more) and 4,000 yuan (560 USD) above the new Wuling Hongguang Mini EV. This puts the A100C in a tough spot, going head-to-head with established players in a fiercely competitive segment where every yuan counts. However, Wuling is hoping its unique blend of features and looks will attract buyers looking for something a bit different.
China’s EV market is constantly evolving, with new models and brands emerging at a breathtaking pace. Understanding the nuances of regulatory changes and consumer preferences is key to navigating this dynamic landscape. You can learn more about how China’s regulators are taking aim at retractable door handles, or how Xiaomi is signaling hybrid ambitions beyond just pure EVs. For a broader overview of the market, check out how China’s EV market continues to surge.
As Wuling tries to make a name for itself with the Aishang A100C, it will be interesting to see if this subtly grumpy, yet charming, city car can carve out a successful niche against its formidable rivals.
