Geely-backed NEV brand Maple to launch new MPV model carrying swappable battery

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Maple, a NEV brand backed by Geely Technology Group, has named a yet-to-be-launched MPV model “Maple 80V”, which is set to serve both business and private users, according to a local media outlet.

The Maple 80V will support the battery swapping model. The disclosure of the new MPV's name came after Xin Guobin, Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), stated on July 23 that the MIIT will continue to vigorously push ahead with the construction of EV charging and battery swapping infrastructures, encourage enterprises to research and develop vehicle models carrying swappable batteries based on proper scenarios, and support cities like Beijing and Hainan in carrying out relevant trial operations.

(Maple 30X, photo source: Maple's WeChat account)

The young NEV brand put its first mass-produced model, the Maple 30X, onto the market just one month ago. Post-subsidy prices of the first five trim levels range from 68,800 yuan ($9,877) to 82,800 yuan ($11,887).

Positioned as a compact all-electric SUV, the Maple 30X is powered by a liquid-cooled electric motor that is good for 70kW and 180 N·m of peak torque, and features a NEDC-rated range of over 306km.

In early August, the Maple 30X witnessed a new trim level dubbed “Zhixing” hit the market, with a post-subsidy price standing at 95,800 yuan ($13,753). As the top-of-the-line version, the new variant features the cruise control, a seven-inch liquid crystal dashboard and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which cannot be seen in the versions launched earlier.

Fengsheng Automotive Technology Group Co., Ltd., the company behind the Maple, is jointly held by Geely Technology Group (78%) and Zhejiang Kandi Vehicle Co., Ltd. (22%). Its business scope extends to cover the R&D of electric vehicles and auto parts, car leasing service, the sale of auto parts, and relevant after-sale services.