Why was the BAIC Lite discontinued?

[Rowan]

The BAIC Lite was discontinued due to poor sales. Here is more information about the BAIC Lite: 1. The BAIC Lite is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a glass roof, and heated seats for both the driver and front passenger, making it suitable for daily use. 2. The BAIC Lite offers three adjustable modes for kinetic energy recovery. When set to the maximum level, it can somewhat achieve a single-pedal logic. 3. The BAIC Lite features light steering feel, and the throttle provides a very linear sensation typical of electric vehicles. The short wheelbase results in a relatively stiff chassis.

[MacBrynlee]

I believe the discontinuation of BAIC Lite is mainly due to poor market performance. As someone who has been following China's EV industry, I've learned that Lite has consistently suffered sluggish sales since its launch, often selling fewer than 100 units per month. Compared to popular models like the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV or Chery eQ1 (Little Ant), Lite lacked advantages in design and cost-performance ratio, with mediocre user reputation. BAIC New Energy likely decided to optimize resources by shifting focus to best-selling SUV series like the EC lineup. Discontinuing small models helps factories free up capacity for higher-demand vehicles while reducing inventory losses. The entire industry is undergoing natural selection - domestic electric mini car competition is too fierce, and poor-selling models naturally get phased out. This move reflects pragmatic and common industry practice.

[VanDavid]

From a technical perspective, I guess BAIC Lite was discontinued due to its obvious shortcomings. Its battery range was only about 150 kilometers, and even worse in actual use, with rapid power loss in winter causing many user complaints. Additionally, its outdated charging system led to frequent compatibility issues. Compared to newer models like the BYD Dolphin with a 400-kilometer range, the Lite was simply outdated. BAIC probably found it too costly to update the technology and decided to discontinue the line to focus on developing more advanced products. Rising costs of raw materials for batteries and motors also increased expenses, so discontinuing production could reduce waste and allow the team to concentrate on overcoming these weaknesses.

[SanCamilla]

I believe the discontinuation of BAIC Lite is a result of the company's strategic adjustment. They are shifting focus to the mid-to-high-end market, where new energy SUV models hold greater potential. When resources are limited, phasing out underperforming products is a wise decision, similar to how other brands like Ford are also cutting marginal vehicle lines. This helps BAIC concentrate manpower and resources to adapt to market demand changes and reduce the risk of losses.

[MacKaylee]

From the perspective of an average car owner, the discontinuation of the BAIC Lite is likely due to insufficient competitiveness. Although its price is affordable, the design is too conservative, and the lack of features fails to attract much user interest. Competitors like the Wuling Hongguang MINI EV have stolen the spotlight with eye-catching designs and skyrocketing sales. After the subsidy phase-out, the Lite faced significant cost pressures, leading to poor sales and eventual discontinuation. Manufacturers must also address after-sales service issues to avoid reputational damage.