Can the Wuling Hongguang Mini Run Long Distances?
4 Answers
The Wuling Hongguang Mini can run long distances, with a top speed of 83 km/h and a range of 170 km, which is sufficient for most needs. Below is an introduction to the Wuling Hongguang: Exterior: The striking eagle-eye crystal diamond headlights and feather-shaped crystal diamond front fog lights enhance the vehicle's premium feel. The two powerful lines on the engine hood give a strong visual sense of power. Powertrain: The Wuling Hongguang is equipped with two engines designed and manufactured to General Motors' global powertrain standards: the P-TEC 1.2L and the 1.5L-DVVT. Both engines feature a double overhead camshaft design, which is relatively rare in small-displacement engines. While ensuring ample power, they also demonstrate excellent fuel economy, significantly reducing vehicle operating costs.
I don't think the Wuling Hongguang Mini is practical for long-distance trips. I've tried driving it to nearby county towns a few times, just over 100 kilometers, and had to stop midway to recharge, spending two to three hours waiting at service stations. This compact car has a claimed range of 170 kilometers, but in reality, with the air conditioning on or driving at high speeds, the battery drains rapidly, sometimes not even lasting 100 kilometers. Charging stations are scarce on long-distance routes, especially in remote mountainous areas where options are even more limited. If you get stranded halfway, calling a tow truck can be a hassle. Therefore, I recommend sticking to using it for urban commuting or short suburban trips, like weekend outings to the beach. For truly long journeys, it's better to choose a car with a longer range—more convenient and safer. When planning your route, use map apps to check charging points, but don't count on it lasting through a long trip.
From my driving experience, the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV does have limitations for long-distance travel. With a range of around 150 kilometers, higher speeds on highways consume more power, making it prone to running out of charge midway. Charging time is another major issue: it takes two to three hours on a regular charger, requiring frequent stops that delay the journey. I've also noticed that the battery tends to overheat during long drives, affecting performance. If you plan to travel far, assess the charging network first. While charging stations are convenient in cities, they're scarce in rural areas or along national highways, posing significant risks. Personally, I recommend it only for daily commutes or short trips around town—don't push its limits for long distances. When choosing an EV, consider range and charging speed; otherwise, a gasoline car might be more practical.
I don't think the Wuling Hongguang Mini is suitable for long-distance travel. Its range is limited, usually less than 200 kilometers, and power consumption doubles during high-speed driving, which may lead to running out of power halfway. The charging process is time-consuming and laborious; waiting for a full charge at service stations can take several hours. I've driven similar small cars before, and while they're fine for short trips, they're prone to malfunctions on long journeys. From a safety perspective, if you're in mountainous areas with no signal or charging points, calling for rescue can be troublesome. It's best to use it for urban and suburban activities to avoid taking risks.
