BAIC is far from being a beginner in the automotive world. It is a state-owned company which is responsible in particular for manufacturing and selling Mercedes (500,000 units) and Hyundais (300,000 units) in China. It also bought Saab and owns three other brands including Foten, the undisputed leader in utility vehicles in China, but also 4×4 SUVs and Arcfox, a brand specializing in electric vehicles.
BAIC is therefore an automobile giant which sells 2 million vehicles in China, but also in 100 countries around the world, including in Europe since Beijing is already established in Poland, Germany and Spain. Today, he wants to continue his expansion by arriving in France. However, unlike many other companies, this manufacturer does not come with electric motors, but thermal motors, at the risk of encountering certain difficulties.
Beijing, the Chinese manufacturer arriving in France with thermals
X55: the future star of the brand
Unlike many Chinese manufacturers, Beijing is not focusing solely on electric vehicles, because the brand will arrive here with the X55 as its flagship model. This 4.62 m long SUV with its all-purpose style is particularly distinguished by its slightly elaborate rear lighting signature. However, the main originality of this model lies in the fact that it will only be available with a gasoline engine. It will be a 1.5l 4-cylinder developing a power of 190 hp coupled to a 7-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain comes from BMW. 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 7.8 seconds for a weight of 1,550 kg. The only problem is that CO2 emissions are significant, because with 179 g/km, this X55 would be penalized by a penalty of at least €19,000.
The interior is also very classic with two 10-inch screens (one for the instrumentation and another for the multimedia). On our models, the quality of materials was basic with hard plastics. Available with a single finish, the panoramic sunroof, automatic tailgate, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, heated and ventilated leather steering wheel and seats and induction charger.
Rear passengers will also benefit from very interesting rear space, particularly legroom. Good news, no transmission tunnel so the central square is usable. Small disappointment regarding the loading volume with only 350 liters.
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X75: the family SUV
Similar engine and penalties for the big brother of the X55, the X75, an SUV measuring 4.75 m and having a double digital panel consisting of 12.3-inch instrumentation, a 12.3-inch multimedia screen and a third to adjust the air conditioning controls located at the bottom of the central console.
The equipment is also rich, including front and rear parking aids with 360° reversing camera, alarm, LED headlights, Nappa leather upholstery, electric front seats, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, access and keyless start. Plenty of space in the rear as well, but the same complaint regarding the loading volume with only 410 liters.
The EU5: the electric sedan with an interchangeable battery
This three-box sedan is the favorite car of Beijing taxis. 4.65 m long, it stands out beyond its 330 km of autonomy, by the possibility of changing the battery in 1 minute thanks to stations already used in China. It will offer electric exterior mirrors, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning and the Bluetooth system. It will be powered by a 120 kW (160 hp) engine and a torque of 240 Nm. The presentation is very simple and seems to be inspired by the Mercedes A-Class with a 7-inch multimedia screen positioned on the top of the dashboard. edge and round vents.
The prices of these models are not known, but they should be between €35,000 and €38,000 for the X55 and between €43,000 and €48,000 for the X75. The French prices of the EU5 remain unknown, but it is sold at an indicative price of €32,000 in Spain. These three models are guaranteed for 5 years or 100,000 km. The first deliveries should take place at the start of the next school year.
