China’s FAW is all set to challenge the dominance of the popular Wuling Hongguang Mini EV with its latest offering, the Bestune Xiaoma Small Electric. This micro-EV is being launched under the Bestune brand and aims to strengthen FAW’s presence in this segment. According to reports, pre-sales for the Xiaoma Small Electric will begin this month.
Priced between 30,000 to 50,000 Yuan (approximately ₹3.47 lakh to ₹5.78 lakh), the Bestune Xiaoma is expected to give tough competition to the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, which currently holds the title of best-selling microcar in China. The Xiaoma Small Electric was initially introduced in both hardtop and convertible variants at the Shanghai Auto Show earlier this year. However, for now, only the hardtop version will be available, with the possibility of a convertible variant being introduced later.
The Bestune Xiaoma showcases an attractive design with a distinctive boxy profile and a dual-tone colour scheme that gives it a playful and animated aesthetic. Notable design elements include large square headlamps with rounded corners and aerodynamic wheels aimed at optimizing range. The rear of the car maintains a cohesive design theme with matching tail lamps and bumper.
Built on the Xiaoma FME platform, which includes a dedicated chassis for EV and range extender models, the Bestune Xiaoma offers impressive range figures. The EV variant boasts a range exceeding 800 kilometres, while the extender model promises a range of 1200 kilometres. Both models support an 800 V architecture.
Under the hood, the micro-EV is equipped with a single 20 kW electric motor positioned on the rear axle. Further details about the powertrain are yet to be disclosed, including information about the battery sourced from Goshan and REPT.
In terms of safety, the Bestune Xiaoma features a driver-side airbag and adopts a 3-door configuration. The car’s dimensions measure 3000mm in length, 1510mm in width, 1630mm in height, and it has a wheelbase of 1,953mm.
Moving on to another development in the automotive industry, Tata Motors, India’s leading automobile manufacturer, recently inaugurated its third registered vehicle scrapping facility (RVSF) in Surat. This facility, named Re.Wi.Re – Recycle with Respect,’ can recycle 15,000 vehicles per year.
Developed and operated by Tata Motors’ partner Shree Ambica Auto, the RVSF focuses on scrapping end-of-life passenger and commercial vehicles of all brands using environmentally friendly processes. This fully digitalized facility is equipped with dedicated cell-type and line-type dismantling stations for the safe dismantling of various components like tyres, batteries, fuel, oils, liquids, and gases.
Tata Motors aims to benefit its customers through these decentralized facilities while also promoting economic growth and generating employment opportunities. The company believes that the need for eco-friendly vehicle scrapping can be fulfilled through such initiatives.
In conclusion, China’s FAW is gearing up to compete with the best-selling Wuling Hongguang Mini EV by launching the Bestune Xiaoma Small Electric. This micro-EV boasts an appealing design and offers impressive range figures. Meanwhile, Tata Motors is contributing to sustainable practices in the automotive industry by inaugurating its third registered vehicle scrapping facility in Surat, which focuses on environmentally friendly processes for recycling end-of-life vehicles.