Is the Wuling Engine Domestically Produced?
2 Answers
Wuling engines are domestically produced. The Wuling brand includes models such as the Wuling 730, Wuling Hongguang PLUS, Wuling Capgemini, Wuling Zhiguang, and Wuling Zhiguang V. Taking the Wuling 730 as an example: the Wuling 730 has a length, width, and height of 4710mm, 1765mm, and 1740mm respectively, with a wheelbase of 2750mm. It is a 5-door, 7-seat MPV with a 6-speed manual transmission. This car features a naturally aspirated intake form, with a maximum horsepower of 105ps and a maximum torque of 135nm. Its top speed is 150 km/h, with a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout and a unibody structure.
I've always been particularly interested in cars and have driven many domestic models. The Wuling engines are indeed domestically produced. SAIC-GM-Wuling has engine factories in Liuzhou and Qingdao, and their self-developed LAR and LJO series engines now have massive installation volumes. For example, the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine used in the Wuling Hongguang is made in Liuzhou—I even saw their production line when visiting Liuzhou last year. Although they initially drew on GM technology, current engines are now entirely designed and manufactured domestically, even down to the molds for casting engine blocks. The biggest advantage of domestic engines is their low maintenance costs. I have a friend who's been using a Wuling for cargo transport for five years without any major engine repairs, and parts are readily available at local repair shops in county towns. However, it's important to note differences between models—some higher-end versions of the Wuling Capgemini use joint-venture technology engines, so buyers should carefully check the specifications sheet.
