Chinese B2B e-commerce platform Alibaba has listed a quirky compact electric SUV for only $2,600, offering a potential alternative to large crossovers congesting the streets across the world.
What’s special about the e-SUV?
Shan County Super Rich New Energy Vehicle Co., Ltd. manufactures the tiny electric SUV, which sells by the moniker “Cheapest Automatic Made in China Street Legal LSV Electric Car for Adults 4 seats.”
As per the listing, the Chinese EV’s length is only 11 feet, enabling it to navigate and park even in the narrowest spaces.
It also features a somewhat spartan four-seater interior design, including fold-down rear seats for additional cargo space.
As for performance, the Chinese EV only has a top speed of 40 km/h (25 mph) and a maximum output of ≤100 horsepower. Meanwhile, its battery energy only ranges from 30 kWh to 50kWh.
Is the tiny e-SUV really street-legal?
These kinds of tiny and low-speed electric vehicles are not probably street-legal in much of the world.
Nonetheless, there are still several localities in the US and other countries with exceptions for tiny EVs like this Alibaba-listed model.
Most jurisdictions that legalize such electric vehicle types tend to have more lenient laws for golf carts and new energy vehicles. You might also be able to slip one of these models out onto the streets if you get lucky during a busy day at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Key specifications
Presented below are the key specifications of the Alibaba-listed Chinese EV:
| Item | Value |
| Steering | Left |
| Brand Name | MEIYA |
| Model Number | chaofu01 |
| Place of Origin | China, Shandong |
| Battery Type | Lead Acid |
| NEDC Max. Range | 101~200 km |
| Battery Energy(kWh) | 30-50kWh |
| Battery Warranty | <50000 km |
| Fast Charge Time(h) | 1-3h |
| Slow Charge Time(h) | 8-10h |
| Total Motor Power(kW) | ≤50kW |
| Total Motor Torque(N.m) | ≤100Nm |
| Total Horsepower(Ps) | ≤100Ps |
| Drive Motor | Single |
| Gear Box | Automatic |
| Wheelbase | 1500-2000mm |
| Number of Seats | 5 |
| Curb Weight | ≤1000kg |
| Cabin Structure | Non-integrated body |
| Drive | RWD |
| Front Suspension | Multi-link |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link |
| Steering System | Electric |
| Parking Brake | Manual |
| Brake System | Front drum+Rear drum |
| ABS(Antilock Braking System) | None |
| ESC(Electronic Stability Control System) | None |
| Radar | None |
| Rear Camera | Camera |
| Sunroof | None |
| Steering Wheel | Multi-function |
| Seats Material | Leather |
| Driver’s Seat Adjustment | Manual |
| Copilot Seat Adjustment | Manual |
| Touch Screen | Yes |
| Headlight | Halogen |
| Daytime Light | None |
| Front Window | Electric |
| Rear Window | Electric |
| Exterior Rearview Mirror | Manual adjustment |
| Product Name | 4 Wheel Electric Car |
| Color | Customized |
| Fuel | 100% Electric |
| Max speed | 40km/h |
| Battery | 60V Lead Acid Battery |
| Motor | AC Motor |
| Usage | Passenger Car.new Energy Electric Car |
| Charging time | 8-10Hours |
| Name | Mini Car |
| Seats | 5 Seats |
The tiny Chinese e-SUV only costs $2,600 price. However, it will still increase to include other fees like battery, freight, taxes, customs brokers, port fees, and other importing expenses.
Nonetheless, these kinds of tiny electric vehicles can undoubtedly be an enticing alternative to oversized models, especially on basic daily errands.
