SGMW, the joint venture between SAIC-General Motors-Wuling, has unveiled the Baojun Yep Plus, an adorable and affordable electric off-roader. Unfortunately, it seems that once again, the US market will miss out on this cute and fashionable EV.
The Baojun Yep Plus has a unique and appealing design, resembling a combination of a Ford Bronco Sport and a Land Rover Defender. Despite its small size, with a length of about 158 inches, it is slightly shorter than the Ford Ecosport. It is also comparable in length to the newly-launched Suzuki Jimny 5-door. The Yep Plus is fully electric and offers a practical and stylish option for city driving.
Previously, GM received criticism for using names like Blazer and Trailblazer without the retro-SUV aesthetics to match. Interestingly, the Baojun Yep Plus fulfills that expectation, unlike its American counterparts.
The Yep Plus not only extends its length and adds an extra set of doors but also provides more power. With a rear-mounted 101 horsepower motor, it can reach a top speed of 93 mph (150 kph), making it a capable vehicle for various driving conditions. While the battery size hasn’t been disclosed, SGMW mentioned on Chinese social media that it aims to achieve a range of 249 miles (401 km) on the CLTC cycle.
Pricing details have not been revealed yet, but it is expected to compete with other reasonably-priced EVs in China, such as the BYD Yuan Up and BYD Dolphin. When converted from Chinese yuan, the estimated price range could be around $16,000 to $21,000 USD.
The Baojun Yep Plus has generated significant interest on social media, and many Americans are expressing their desire for a cheap and practical EV like this. Although the vehicle is partially supported and developed by GM, it remains uncertain if it will be made available in the US market due to the current skepticism towards Chinese-made EVs.
Hopefully, GM will take notice of the demand and consider introducing a similar vehicle to the US market in the near future.
The Electric Blazer We Should Have Received: GM’s Baojun Yep Plus
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), General Motors (GM) has been at the forefront of innovation. With the successful launch of popular EV models like the Chevy Bolt and the upcoming GMC Hummer EV, the company has been making strides towards a greener future. However, one EV that enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting is the electric version of the iconic Chevrolet Blazer – a vehicle that could have been a game-changer in the EV market. While GM is yet to introduce an electric Blazer of its own, its Chinese joint venture, Baojun, has unveiled an astonishing EV that proves the electric Blazer could have been a true marvel – the Baojun Yep Plus.
The Baojun Yep Plus, also known as the RS-7, is a mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) that exudes elegance and modernity. Its exterior design cues give a nod to the classic Blazer, with a bold, aggressive front grille and muscular lines along its body. However, it also features striking LED headlights and sleek aerodynamic touches that elevate its aesthetic appeal.
Underneath its striking exterior lies an impressive powertrain. The Yep Plus is equipped with an electric propulsion system that offers a maximum power output of 200 horsepower (150 kilowatts). This remarkable power is delivered through a single motor driving the front wheels, resulting in an exhilarating and smooth performance. Furthermore, the Yep Plus boasts a 93 kilowatt-hour battery pack, providing a range of over 500 kilometers (310 miles) on a single charge. With such an impressive range, owners need not worry about range anxiety during their long-distance journeys.
Stepping inside the Yep Plus, passengers are greeted with a spacious and luxurious cabin. The interior boasts premium materials and cutting-edge technology, exuding comfort and sophistication. LED ambient lighting sets the mood, while a large infotainment screen dominates the dashboard, providing access to a multitude of features and services. The Yep Plus also offers advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist, ensuring the utmost safety of its occupants.
The Baojun Yep Plus is not only a marvel in terms of performance and design but also a testament to its commitment towards sustainability. Its electric powertrain ensures zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a greener environment. As the global push towards electrification continues, vehicles like the Yep Plus represent a tangible step towards a carbon-neutral future.
While Baojun is predominantly focused on the Chinese market, the introduction of the Yep Plus demonstrates the potential for an electrified Blazer in the global market. The Blazer, with its rich heritage and cult following, can provide a perfect platform for an electric variant that caters to the desires of modern-day consumers. An electric Blazer could not only retain the essence of the beloved classic but also align with GM’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
In conclusion, the Baojun Yep Plus showcases the splendor of what an electric Blazer could have been. Its striking design, impressive performance, and commitment to sustainability make it an ideal candidate for Chevrolet’s EV lineup. As GM continues to revolutionize the EV market, enthusiasts can only hope that an electric Blazer will eventually make its way onto the roads, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive industry and paving the way for a sustainable future.