GM Wuling Nano: Up to 305 kilometers range

The shortest car from GM is being created in a joint venture with SAIC in China for China: The joint venture introduced the Wuling Nano there, a name that Tata once used for its ultra-cheap entry model, which was even considered too spartanly designed for Indians. The Nano, with a wheelbase of 1.6 meters, comfortably accommodates two people and is said to have a turning circle diameter of only 7.6 meters.

According to the press release, the joint venture aims the tiny car not only at urban areas but also at commuters, or in China, “the needs of the young and independent generation,” which also allows couples to make longer trips – for prices between approximately 6,300 and 8,300 euros gross. The range, according to NEDC, is up to 305 kilometers, which in reality is more like 150 kilometers plus x. There are no details about the battery, except that it can be charged with an optional 6.6 kW charger in 4.5 hours, which would mean a maximum gross capacity of around 30 kWh. DC charging is not anticipated, which also suggests a rather low capacity. On the drive side, a 24 kW electric motor and 85 Nm of torque must suffice.

The package, on the other hand, is more about solid vehicle construction: a stable steel cage with crumple zones, driver airbag, ESP, parking sensors, and tire pressure monitoring system are offered. In addition, a specially developed app is included. Also high quality: the battery heater for preconditioning before charging.

What does this mean?

The Nano targets exactly the niche between L7e light vehicles and "real" four-seater compact cars, where the Smart also stands. However, it has much cheaper prices and a suitable package ahead of it. It remains to be seen whether the joint venture will also export the model.