Maxus to launch new all-electric minivan in UK at the end of 2022

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SAIC Maxus, the now Chinese remnant of LDV, plans to launch a new electric minivan in the UK at the end of next year, called MIFA 9. It will compete with the Peugeot e-Traveler and the upcoming passenger transport variant. of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz.

Sales are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2022, with buyers having a choice of seven- and eight-seat configurations, as well as three specs. Unlike its fierce rivals, however, the MIFA 9 aims to target a more upscale audience, offering a luxury normally reserved for executive sedans.

Buyers will be offered power seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions – and the rear seats will even have smartphone-style touchscreens integrated into the armrests and extendable footrests, similar to those on the last Mercedes. S-Class, however, we expect that some of these features will be reserved for the top-of-the-line model.

Up front there is a huge infotainment system that spans the full width of the dashboard and includes a cluster of digital gauges and two multimedia displays – one for navigation instructions and one for passenger entertainment. before.

There will also be a full range of driver assistance technologies, including a system that can help keep the car centered in narrow lanes and a parking assistant that can monitor the 150 square meters of space around the vehicle. to detect dangers during maneuvers.

The MIFA 9 is 5,270mm long, 2,000mm wide and 1,840mm high, while its wheelbase is 3,200mm. This means it’s roughly the same size as the larger version of the Citroën Dispatch van, so there will be tons of space inside. Maxus has also fitted the MPV with sliding doors, to facilitate access in confined parking lots.

It is powered by a 90 kWh battery and a single electric motor with a power of 241 hp and 350 Nm of torque. Maxus says the system offers a range of 323 miles, although it’s interesting that this figure was recorded as part of the more lenient NEDC test program. We expect it to decrease once the MPV passes WLTP approval.

Maxus has plans to expand beyond MPVs, however. The MIFA 9 is the first vehicle built on the company’s new electric MIFA bases, which Maxus says can also be used for SUVs and vans. So, we might see new Chinese rivals like Skoda Enyaq and Toyota Hilux in the near future.

What does the new Maxus MIFA 9 have to beat? Click here to check out our list of the best seven-seater electric cars on sale now …

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