The Mini Wuling Hongguang has long been a favorite among urban commuters and small-business owners in China, thanks to its compact size, affordable price, and excellent fuel efficiency. As the world shifts toward electric mobility, many owners of this iconic mini-car are considering upgrading it to an electric vehicle (EV) to reduce operating costs and carbon footprints. A critical decision in this upgrade process is selecting the right electric motor system — one that balances performance, efficiency, and compatibility with the vehicle’s structure. In this blog, we’ll break down the key factors to consider and recommend suitable motor systems for your Mini Wuling Hongguang EV conversion.
Before diving into motor options, it’s essential to know your vehicle’s core parameters, as they will directly influence motor selection. The standard Mini Wuling Hongguang has a curb weight of approximately 700–900 kg, a wheelbase of 2,100 mm, and a original maximum speed of around 100 km/h. For EV upgrading, the motor system must match this lightweight design and low-speed urban driving profile. Overpowering the vehicle with a high-performance motor can lead to unnecessary energy waste, increased battery consumption, and even safety risks due to mismatched chassis strength. On the other hand, an underpowered motor will result in poor acceleration and difficulty climbing slopes — common scenarios in city driving.
Key Criteria for Selecting an Electric Motor System
When choosing a motor system for your Mini Wuling Hongguang, focus on four core criteria: power output, motor type, voltage compatibility, and size/weight.
1. Power Output: Prioritize Efficiency for Urban Use
For a mini-car like the Mini Wuling Hongguang, which is mainly used for short-distance commutes (50–100 km per day) and low-speed driving (usually below 80 km/h), a motor with a continuous power of 15–30 kW and a peak power of 30–50 kW is ideal. Continuous power ensures stable performance during long drives, while peak power handles temporary needs like accelerating from a stop or climbing small hills. For example, a 20 kW continuous power motor can easily propel the 800-kg Mini Wuling Hongguang to a speed of 90 km/h, meeting daily urban travel needs without excessive energy use. Avoid motors with continuous power below 15 kW, as they may struggle with heavy loads (e.g., carrying 2–3 passengers) or steep roads.
2. Motor Type: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors (PMSM) Are the Best Choice
There are two main types of electric motors used in EVs: PMSMs and Asynchronous Motors (ASM). For the Mini Wuling Hongguang, PMSMs are far more suitable. Here’s why: PMSMs have higher efficiency (up to 90–95%, compared to 85–90% for ASMs), smaller size, and lighter weight — perfect for the mini-car’s limited space and lightweight chassis. They also offer better low-speed torque, which means smoother acceleration at city speeds (0–60 km/h), a key advantage for stop-and-go traffic. ASMs, while cheaper, are heavier and less efficient at low speeds, making them better suited for high-performance EVs or commercial vehicles, not compact commuter cars.
3. Voltage Compatibility: Match the Battery Pack
The motor’s voltage rating must align with the battery pack you plan to install. For the Mini Wuling Hongguang, a 48V or 72V battery system is most practical. A 48V system is simpler to install and costs less, but it may require a higher current to achieve sufficient power, which can increase wire thickness and installation complexity. A 72V system, on the other hand, delivers higher power with lower current, reducing energy loss and improving overall efficiency. Most 15–30 kW PMSMs on the market are designed for 48V or 72V systems, so you can easily find a matching motor. For example, the Jingjin Electric JME280 (20 kW continuous power, 72V) is a popular choice for mini-EV conversions, as it directly pairs with 72V lithium-ion battery packs (usually 20–30 kWh, providing a range of 150–200 km).
4. Size and Weight: Ensure Compatibility with the Engine Bay
The Mini Wuling Hongguang’s original engine bay is small (designed for a 1.2L gasoline engine), so the electric motor system must be compact and lightweight. Look for motors with a length of less than 300 mm and a weight of 20–35 kg. For example, the Huichuan Technology MC180 motor (25 kW continuous power) weighs only 28 kg and has a diameter of 180 mm — it can easily fit into the original engine bay without major modifications to the chassis or body. Avoid large motors (over 40 kg), as they may require reinforcing the suspension or altering the frame, increasing both cost and safety risks.
Recommended Electric Motor Systems for Mini Wuling Hongguang
Based on the above criteria, here are three proven motor systems for your EV upgrade:
- Jingjin Electric JME280 + 72V 25kWh Battery Pack
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- Continuous power: 20 kW; Peak power: 40 kW
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- Weight: 32 kg; Size: 280 mm (L) × 190 mm (D)
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- Advantages: High efficiency (93%), low noise, and direct compatibility with the Mini Wuling Hongguang’s transmission (requires a simple adapter for the original clutch system). Paired with a 25 kWh 72V battery, it provides a range of 180 km and a top speed of 95 km/h — perfect for daily commutes.
- Huichuan Technology MC180 + 48V 20kWh Battery Pack
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- Continuous power: 18 kW; Peak power: 35 kW
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- Weight: 28 kg; Size: 260 mm (L) × 180 mm (D)
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- Advantages: Cheaper than 72V systems (total cost saves about 20%), easier to install (48V wiring is simpler), and ideal for owners on a budget. The 20 kWh battery offers a range of 150 km, which meets short-distance travel needs.
- Leapmotor LM-15 (For Higher Performance)
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- Continuous power: 25 kW; Peak power: 50 kW
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- Weight: 35 kg; Size: 290 mm (L) × 200 mm (D)
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- Advantages: Suitable for owners who want better acceleration (0–60 km/h in 8 seconds) and hill-climbing ability. Paired with a 30 kWh 72V battery, it delivers a range of 200 km and a top speed of 105 km/h. Note: This requires a minor modification to the engine bay’s mounting brackets.
Installation and Post-Upgrade Tips
Once you’ve selected a motor system, pay attention to these key installation steps:
- Transmission Compatibility: The Mini Wuling Hongguang uses a manual transmission; you’ll need a custom adapter plate to connect the electric motor to the original gearbox. Most motor suppliers (like Jingjin and Huichuan) offer matching adapter kits.
- Cooling System: Electric motors generate less heat than gasoline engines, but a simple air-cooling system (with a fan) is still necessary to prevent overheating during long drives.
- Battery Placement: Install the battery pack under the rear seat or in the trunk to avoid affecting the vehicle’s weight balance. Ensure the battery is secured with anti-vibration brackets to prevent damage.
- Compliance: After modification, register the EV with local traffic authorities to ensure it meets safety standards (e.g., GB 7258 in China). This step is crucial to avoid legal issues.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Mini Wuling Hongguang to an EV is a cost-effective way to embrace green mobility, and selecting the right electric motor system is the foundation of a successful conversion. For most owners, a 15–30 kW PMSM with 48V/72V compatibility (like the Jingjin JME280 or Huichuan MC180) will strike the perfect balance between performance, efficiency, and cost. Remember to prioritize compatibility with your vehicle’s weight and size, and work with a professional EV modification shop if you’re not experienced in mechanical work. With the right motor system, your Mini Wuling Hongguang can enjoy a new life as a reliable, eco-friendly electric commuter.
