Alma M-200

It’s no secret that China has a talent for replicating just about anything under the sun. And when they do, the products they churn out are often incredibly cheap. For example, what they call the “minicar long-distance road adult electric car”. It is also known as the Alma M-200 and made by Shandong Alma Technology Co. At just $2,500 (€2,300 at current exchange rates), this electrified and rather quirky four-seater from China seems to scream Mini Cooper, doesn’t it?

Visually, there’s no way this could ever compete with a BMW Mini, right? RIGHT? According to the company’s profile page on Made in China, they claim BMW as one of their partners, along with Buick, Audi, Infiniti, Toyota, and even Ford.

If you look at the vehicle’s product presentation page, you’ll find numerous statements that only raise more questions about what we’re actually looking at and what we can expect. For example, we’re told that the Minicar is a four-seater, which is standard, but it has a 1,500-watt engine.

Then there’s the question of battery capacity. There’s no information on how much power it holds, just the phrase “long endurance,” whatever that means. The battery can be recharged for up to three hours. In addition, each wheel is equipped with disc brakes, and the vehicle has a backup camera, multimedia, electric heating, and even “voice interconnection”.

As for the exterior, it retains the classic Mini Cooper look. From the side, the Minicar resembles older models with its short, high and chopped nose. A “chrome” grille shines in the sunlight. However, it’s likely that the grille is not really chrome. The bumper seems to be integrated into the body, similar to the fenders and side skirts. At the rear, the paneling appears to be a single piece with slots for windows.

Even though it’s an EV, you might expect some storage space under the hood. Instead, the manufacturer emphasizes a rear trunk that can be accessed via a drop-down hatch. Judging by its size, it looks like it could only hold a few groceries.