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Another copy from China: Mini Cooper is sold for just R$13 and attracts attention on the internet. But unfortunately, this subcompact hatch only delivers 2 horsepower (the same as an electric bike).
Chinese automakers have evolved significantly and are already competing for top sales positions around the world. In Brazil, brands such as BYD, GWM and Chaoa Chery not only are they expanding with new factories, but they have also conquered a considerable portion of the Brazilian market, thanks to consumer confidence. However, there are still cases of Chinese automakers trying to enter the market with models inspired by European designs, as is the case with the new Chinese subcompact hatchback inspired by the Mini Cooper.
Chinese Mini Cooper costs just $2.500 - something around of R $ 13 thousand
This is the case of Shandong Alma Technology, which offers an undeniable copy of the Classic Mini Cooper, from the 60s, powered by a small electric motor that produces a mere 2 hp, but which, according to the manufacturer, can accommodate up to four occupants.
Even for the bargain price of US$2.500, the equivalent of R$13, few people take the plunge. When checking the Chinese Mini Cooper presentation page, you can see that there are so many statements that do nothing more than raise more questions about what to really expect.
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It may seem like a mistake, but 2 hp is in fact the power provided, similar to that of an electric bicycle. Despite its affordable price, the model includes features such as a multifunctional steering wheel and multimedia center, although both are quite simple.
The automaker also highlights that the battery can be fully recharged in up to three hours. Additionally, each wheel of the Hatch subcompact is equipped with disc brakes, and the vehicle offers a reversing camera, electric heating and even voice interconnection. Unfortunately, information about the interior is limited, with only an image of the dashboard available to view.
Chinese Mini Cooper design
As for the exterior of this “artifice with wheels”, the similarity with the original Mini Cooper cannot be denied. From the side, the Alma-M200 resembles the older, more classic Cooper models with a short, high and cropped nose.
Furthermore, the front grille appears to be embedded in the body itself, as do the fenders and side skirts. At the rear, everything appears to have been produced in just one piece, with a few slits for the windows here and there.
Despite being an electric Chinese Mini Cooper, there could well be space under the hood to carry luggage.
However, instead there is only a tiny rear compartment accessible via an overhead hatch. From the looks of it, it can only fit a few supplies, but with just 2 horses, it's not even known whether the subcompact hatch could carry any extra weight in addition to the occupants.
Other copies from China in the automotive market
In addition to this Chinese Mini Cooper subcompact hatch, the D draws attention with a surreal replica. The brand presented a pickup truck very similar to the one at the Beijing Motor Show. Tesla Cybertruck.
The visual language is identical, with similar LED headlights, very straight and pointed lines, a steeper windshield and even closed wheels were copied. In fact, the “Pick-up Concept”, as it was called, even has a camping tent built into the truck bed, just like Elon Musk’s pickup truck.
The concept even has some particularities, however these are very small details, such as the car's profile, which is somewhat more conservative. The body, according to reports, also appears to be made of a simpler material, which mimics the Cybertruck's stainless steel appearance.
The doors are suicide type and the running boards are retractable to facilitate entry. The corners of the body are also less sharp than the American original, also due to the material used.
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