Jiangnan U2: An Urban Electric Car with a Faux Lancia Beta Look
This page is translated from the original post "Jiangnan U2 : une citadine électrique aux faux air de Lancia Beta" in French.
- 13/02/2023 11:00
The small Chinese manufacturer Jiangnan Automobile presents a unique city car available in a 100% electric version, whose front end will evoke fond memories for enthusiasts of Italian cars.
Although founded in 2001, Jiangnan Automobile is completely unknown in our region, especially since the manufacturer went bankrupt two years ago and has since undergone a severe reorganization.
Yet, like a Phoenix, Jiangnan has decided to strike a little harder to make its mark. While the brand was known for assembling Suzuki Alto and other rebadged Fiat models, 2023 marks a stylistic rebirth with the unveiling of the Jiangnan U2.
Based on the technical platform of a more well-known model in China, the Ruixiang Hoen O2 developed by Beijing Automotive Group Co., Ltd. (BAIC), the Jiangnan U2 strongly resembles the Lancia Beta Montecarlo, a small Italian sporty car with character, produced in the late 1970s. The treatment of the grille and front lights is quite striking, but overall, it’s quite lively. Others might see a resemblance to the Honda e, which is rather a compliment, but these two city cars will not be competing in the same price league!
Measuring 3.84 meters long with a generous 2.52-meter wheelbase (ensuring good interior space), the U2 (not to be confused with the famous music group) offers a rather balanced profile and stands out with flush door handles, its two-tone paint, and a panoramic sunroof. Finally, 17-inch alloy wheels help give it a rather dynamic look. The whole package wouldn’t look out of place in our upscale neighborhoods.
Electric Performance
Precisely, although there is no European plan at present, the Jiangnan U2 will be equipped with two electric motors. The first develops 75 HP and 120 Nm. Its lithium iron phosphate battery offers a range of 305 km under Chinese standards. In the high-end version, there is a 109 HP and 160 Nm electric motor, with a battery theoretically capable of reaching 406 km.
It is unclear whether nostalgic fans of the Lancia Beta will lobby for importing it to Europe, but Jiangnan could help revive the brand, especially since its price is reportedly attractive!
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