Chinese automaker Geely has introduced the Geely Geometry Panda Mini EV, a small electric car that offers impressive features at an affordable price. Priced at just £6,000, the Panda is equipped with a touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay, a reversing camera, air conditioning, and electric windows. Unlike Europe’s quadricycles, the Panda is actually usable in both urban and rural areas, with a top speed of 50-60mph and a range of 124 miles on a single charge.
What sets the Panda apart from other small electric cars is its fun driving experience. Despite its compact size, the Panda handles well on the road, thanks to its responsive steering and low center of gravity. This makes it an ideal choice for young drivers or those looking for an affordable and practical city car.
The success of the Geely Geometry Panda Mini EV in China raises the question of whether Europe and the UK should consider overhauling quadricycle regulations to allow for similar vehicles. These small electric runabouts have become popular in China, with the Hongguang Mini EV from Wuling selling over 400,000 units in its best year. The lower cost of these cars is attributed to falling battery prices and the use of lower-cost lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry, which provides a longer range compared to older lead-acid batteries.
Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo has called for a new small car category in Europe that offers certain benefits not available to larger electric vehicles. This category would encourage the development of affordable and practical mini EVs like the Panda, which could be an ideal choice for first-time car buyers or those looking for an economical and environmentally friendly option.
However, while the small electric car segment has seen significant growth in China, it is starting to shrink. In 2021, these cars accounted for almost 30% of new EV sales in China, but that number dropped to below 10% in 2023. This decline can be attributed to several factors, including cities like Shanghai blocking the smallest EVs from certain initiatives and the emergence of larger and more affordable electric superminis.
Despite the decline in the small electric car segment, there is still demand for mini EVs in Europe. Smart, under its new ownership by Geely and Mercedes-Benz, is planning to release a new version of its Fortwo, targeting European consumers who desire a premium and sophisticated mini EV. However, it is worth noting that the Chinese low-cost mini EV segment may not meet the level of sophistication that European consumers expect.
In conclusion, the Geely Geometry Panda Mini EV offers a compelling option for those looking for an affordable and practical electric car. Its features and performance exceed what one would expect from a vehicle at its price point. While the small electric car segment is facing challenges in China, there is still potential for growth in Europe. The demand for mini EVs exists, and as battery technology continues to improve, we can expect to see more affordable and sophisticated options in the future.
