GWM, BMW likely to launch first BEV with WLTP-rated range of 400km

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture (JV) between Great Wall Motor (GWM) and BMW Group is likely to launch its first all-electric three-door model in June, 2023, according to a local media report. Its WLTP-rated range is expected to reach 400km with a battery capacity of 50.5kWh.  

Based on the new driving cycles WLTC (worldwide harmonized light-duty vehicles Test Cycles), the new WLTP procedure (world harmonized light-duty vehicles test procedure) is to measure the mean fuel consumption, the CO2 emissions, the levels of pollutants by passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, as well as the range of fully electric vehicles.

Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of People's Republic of China (MIIT) have solicited opinion on the drafts of Passenger Vehicle Fuel consumption Limit and the Assessment Method and Index. The drafts indicate 2021 will see the transition from NEDC to WLTP standards. 

In terms of the WLTP-rated range, the JV’s first model can be a rival to the Audi e-tron, the first BEV model of the German luxury car brand.

Spotlight Automotive was officially sited in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu Province with a registered capital of RMB1.7 billion ($243 million). Enjoying a total investment of RMB5.1 billion ($729 million), the company plans to build up a world-leading vehicle-manufacturing plant with an annual production capacity of 160,000 units. It is not only BMW's first worldwide pure electric vehicle JV project, but also a significant step for GWM to introduce its NEVs into global market.

Apart from developing self-owned electric models, the JV will produce the electric version of MINI in accordance with GMW and BMW's agreement (photo source: GWM).