China’s thriving car industry is about to witness a new entrant as the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture introduces the Yep, its maiden all-electric SUV under the Baojun brand. Having made its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, the compact Baojun Yep officially hit the market on May 25. With a starting price of 79,800 Yuan ($11,240) and a maximum price of 89,800 Yuan ($12,698), the Yep aims to cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles in China.
Measuring a mere 133.1 inches (3,381 mm) in length, 66.3 inches (1,686 mm) in width, and standing 67.7 inches (1,721 mm) tall, the Yep, also known as the YueYe in Chinese, presents itself as a three-door SUV with seating for four. To put its compact dimensions into perspective, it is approximately 10 inches shorter than the Suzuki Jimny.
Despite its small size, the Yep manages to stay lightweight, weighing in at only 2,217 lbs (1,006 kg). While interior space is somewhat limited, the rear seats can be folded down to provide the SUV with a cargo capacity of 25.2 cubic-feet (715 liters). Additional storage options are available in the frunk, which even includes heating and cooling features.
Powering the Baojun Yep is a 28.1 kWh battery pack that drives a single electric motor generating 67 hp and 103 lb-ft (140 Nm) of torque. Impressively, the battery pack can be charged from 30% to 80% in just 35 minutes. The Yep boasts a range of up to 188 miles (303 km) on a single charge, a commendable achievement considering the compact size of the battery. Its top speed is 62 mph (100 km/h).
The Yep’s exterior design embraces a boxy aesthetic, featuring black front and rear bumpers, fender extensions, and rocker panels. Notably, the front end lacks a traditional grille but incorporates LED headlights. One particularly intriguing aspect of the SUV’s design is a small screen on the tailgate, which allows drivers to display messages to other motorists.
Stepping inside, the Baojun Yep surprises with its well-equipped interior. Standard features include a pair of 10.25-inch displays serving as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The SUV even offers a 360-degree camera system, enhancing the overall driving experience.
As the SAIC-GM-Wuling joint venture diversifies into the electric vehicle segment of China’s automobile market, the Baojun Yep stands out as a compact and efficient all-electric SUV, combining practicality with a range of advanced features. With its competitive pricing and notable specifications, the Yep aims to capture the attention of Chinese car buyers seeking an environmentally friendly and technologically advanced option.
