Baojun Yep and Yep Plus arrive with bold ambitions and low prices

Wuling's popular Baojun brand has launched two new additions to its growing fleet of mini-electric vehicles: an upgraded Yep and the entirely new Yep Plus. Combining boxy design with practical functionality, the duo signals a new era for Chinese EVs aimed at city dwellers, commuters, and young families.

The original Yep was introduced in 2022, turning heads with its resemblance to the iconic Suzuki Jimny. This 2024 update boasts minor price bumps (starting at just over $11,000) but delivers enhanced features. The tiny powerhouse is still a 2-door, 4-seat SUV-wannabe, ideal for tight city streets, measuring 133.1 inches long, 66.3 inches wide, and 67.8 inches tall.

This micro-SUV isn't about breaking speed records - it's about efficiency. The manufacturer promises 188 miles of range (CLTC) on a single charge. With a 50 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor under the hood and 103 lb-ft of torque, this plucky EV offers a zippy ride despite its modest 62 mph top speed. Perfect for city living or short commutes, it charges its tiny 28.1 kWh battery from 30 to 80 percent in just 35 minutes, thanks to fast charging capabilities.

Joining the Baojun roster is the big brother - the Yep Plus. This 4-door, 4-seat SUV marks an ambitious step for the brand. Bigger in every dimension, it sports a length of 157.3 inches, a width of 69.3 inches, and a height of 68 inches. It delivers the same practicality and affordability as the Yep, starting at just under $13,000.

The Plus offers a more powerful drive with a 75 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor and 133 lb-ft of torque. This translates to an increased top speed of 93 mph, ideal for the occasional highway trip. The Plus also wins out in the range department, optimistically promising an impressive 249 miles (CLTC) between charges, courtesy of its 41.9 kWh battery pack. This micro-SUV maintains the same fast-charging capabilities as its smaller sibling.

Baojun unveiled their new Tianyu EV architecture, with three platforms (S, M, and D) designed to cover their full range of EVs, from tiny city runabouts to spacious family vehicles. The Yep and Yep Plus represent the inaugural vehicles for the S and M platforms. Baojun has ambitious plans to release four new models by the end of the year. The second half of 2024 promises the arrival of a 5-seat SUV on the D-platform and a 6-seat family SUV in Q4.

Baojun's move into slightly larger vehicles hints at a growing appetite for practical and affordable EVs. The Yep Plus, in particular, could be poised to disrupt the dominance of the massively popular Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV – long the king of China's micro-EV market.

Via