SAIC Maxus, the now Chinese-owned remnants of LDV, has plans to launch a new electric MPV in the UK at the end of next year, called the MIFA 9. It’ll rival the likes of the Peugeot e-Traveller and the upcoming passenger-carrying variant of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz.
Sales are set to start in the third quarter of 2022, with buyers used the choice of seven- and eight-seat layouts, as well as three specifications. Unlike its work-hardened competitors, though, the MIFA 9 aims to target a a lot more premium audience, using luxuries usually reserved for executive saloons.
Maxus launches new flagship deliver 9 panel van
Buyers will be used electrically adjustable seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions – and the rear chairs will even have smartphone-style touch screens built into the armrests and extendable footrests, similar to those on the current Mercedes S-Class. However, we expect some of these features will be reserved for the top-spec model.
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Up front, there’s an massive infotainment system that spans the width of the dashboard and includes a digital gauge cluster and two multimedia displays – one for navigation instructions and one to keep the front passenger entertained.
There’ll also be a full complement of driver-assistance technology, including a system that can help keep the automobile centred in narrow lanes and a vehicle parking assistant which can monitor the 150 square metres of space around the automobile for hazards when manoeuvring.
The MIFA 9 procedures 5,270mm long, 2,000mm large and 1,840mm tall, while its wheelbase is 3,200mm. That indicates it’s about the same size as the largest version of the Citroen Dispatch panel van, so there’ll be tonnes of space inside. Maxus has also fitted the MPV with sliding doors, to help with access in tight automobile parks.
It’s powered by a 90kWh battery pack and a single electric motor with an output of 241bhp and 350Nm of torque. Maxus says the system uses a range of 323 miles, although it’s worth noting that figure was logged under the a lot more lenient NEDC test programme. We expect it will minimize once the MPV has passed through WLTP homologation.
Maxus has plans for expansion beyond MPVs, however. The MIFA 9 is the first automobile built on the company’s new MIFA electric underpinnings, which Maxus says can also be used for SUVs and pick-up trucks. So, we could see new Chinese rivals for the likes of the Skoda Enyaq and Toyota Hilux in the near future.
What does the new Maxus MIFA 9 have to beat? Click here for our list of the best seven-seat electric automobiles on sale now…