Geely, the prominent Chinese automaker, introduced the Dragon Edition of its Panda Mini EV, showcasing an overall appearance reminiscent of its predecessor unveiled in 2022. However, upon closer examination of its specifications and pricing, notable enhancements become apparent, reflecting Geely's commitment to improvement and innovation.
The Geely Panda Mini Dragon Edition, an electric vehicle (EV), enters the market with a price tag of $5,500, offering an impressive range of 200 kilometers under the Chinese Light-duty Test Cycle while also supporting fast charging capabilities. This marks a significant milestone as the first 200-kilometer range electric car within the 30,000-yuan price range. Notably, the preceding model boasted a higher-end variant priced at $8,200 with a similar 200km range. This competitive pricing underscores the ongoing EV price competition prevailing in China.
Powering the Panda Mini Dragon Edition is a 40 hp rear-wheel-drive electric motor coupled with a 17 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. This configuration enables the vehicle to achieve a 200-kilometer range under CLTC test conditions, while also facilitating 22 kW fast charging. Charging efficiency is commendable, with the ability to reach 80% charge from 30% in just half an hour at a temperature of 25°C, with a full charge attainable within 68 minutes. Additionally, the car supports conventional home charging, ensuring convenient charging solutions for users.
Designed with a youthful market in mind, the Geely Panda Mini features a distinctive black-and-white aesthetic reminiscent of pandas, evident in its two-door, four-seater layout. Originally intended for launch under the Geometry brand, management opted to include the Panda Mini EV within the Geely lineup.
Compact and agile, the Panda Mini boasts dimensions of 3065/1522/1600 mm, with a wheelbase of 2015 mm, facilitating nimble maneuvering within urban landscapes. Its front face showcases a sleek grille accented by decorative strips, complemented by rounded headlights. Aerodynamically crafted wheels contribute to reduced wind resistance, while the rear design maintains a minimalist ethos, featuring a polygonal tail light assembly and a recessed trapezoidal license plate area, adding depth to the overall aesthetic.
Inside, the Panda Mini's interior adopts an asymmetrical design, with the central control area favoring the passenger side and a dual-spoke steering wheel design. A floating touchscreen dominates the center console, while the dashboard and door panels prioritize durability and cost-effectiveness with predominantly hard materials.
Safety features abound in the Panda Mini, including hill-start assist, EPS electric power steering, ABS anti-lock braking system, EBD brake force distribution, driver's side airbag, child safety seat interface, and tire pressure monitoring, ensuring peace of mind for occupants.