Geely's Panda Mini micro electric vehicle has gone on sale in China with four versions, priced from 39,900 to 53,900 yuan (about $5,620 to $7,590) before taxes and incentives, according to a first-drive review by Dandong. The model, which launched on February 6, is available in two range variants: 120 km and 200 km on the CLTC cycle (roughly 100-170 km WLTP, est.).
The review, conducted in Chengdu, focuses on the top-spec 'Lingdong Bear' trim, which the author says offers the best value for urban driving. The car is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 30 kW (40 hp) and 110 Nm of torque, a relatively strong setup for the micro-car segment. It also features a 22 kW DC fast-charging capability, allowing quicker top-ups than typical slow AC charging.
Driving dynamics and efficiency
The Panda Mini impresses with its handling, according to the review. The front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link non-independent suspension are tuned to suppress body roll and bounce, providing a stable and composed ride even on rough roads. The car offers two driving modes: Normal, which prioritizes smoothness and includes a creep function, and Sport, which delivers quicker acceleration and a noticeable push in the back. The three-level regenerative braking system, while subtle in feel, helps manage speed and energy recovery.
During the test drive, the reviewer noted that despite frequent hard acceleration in Sport mode, the car's energy consumption dropped from 9.6 kWh per 100 km to as low as 9.1 kWh, ending at 9.2 kWh after 58.9 km. The reviewer attributes this efficiency to the regenerative braking and the motor's performance.
Practicality and safety
The Panda Mini's interior is designed for practicality, with a clean dashboard featuring an 8-inch floating touchscreen, multiple storage compartments, and a 5:5 split-folding rear seat for flexible cargo space. The front seats are sporty and comfortable, and the cabin offers good visibility. Safety features include ABS, EBD, tire pressure monitoring, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a rearview camera, and parking sensors, along with a reinforced body structure using high-strength steel and laser welding.
Smart connectivity is another highlight: the car can be controlled via a smartphone app for remote functions like climate control and unlocking, and it supports Bluetooth key entry with automatic power-on. Geely reports that the Panda Mini received over 25,000 orders in its first month, with cumulative deliveries surpassing 10,000 units, indicating strong market acceptance.
