GM’s Wuling teases new Starlight S electric SUV to compete with BYD, Tesla

A new electric SUV is primed to take on BYD and Tesla in China. GM’s joint venture, SAIC-GM-Wuling, unveiled the first teaser images of its new Starlight S electric SUV Monday. Check out the first images below.

GM’s Wuling previews new electric SUV

The new electric SUV is the second model under the Wuling Silver Label. SAIC-GM-Wuling is a joint venture between China’s SAIC (50.1% owner) and GM (44%), while the remaining belongs to Liuzhou, Guangxi Province, based Wuling.

Wuling launched the Starlight electric sedan at the Beijing Auto Show in April. Although a PHEV version debuted last December, starting at $12,400 (105,800 yuan), the EV version starts at $13,800 (99,800 yuan).

As of the end of April, over 32,000 Wuling Starlight models had been sold. The Wuling Starlight EV features up to 317 miles (510 km) CLTC range.

Although the Starlight S shares the same name, it will be a compact SUV. According to info from China’s MIIT, the electric SUV is 4,745 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, and 1,690 mm tall.

With expected prices starting around $9,700 (69,800 yuan), the new electric SUV will rival BYD’s Song Plus (4,775 mm long x 1,890 mm wide, 1,690 mm tall). BYD’s Song Plus DM-i (PHEV) starts at $23,900 (169,800 yuan), while the EV model starts at $25,300 (179,800 yuan).

Tesla’s RWD Model Y (4,751 mm long x 1,978 mm wide x 1,624 mm tall) starts at $35,500 (249,900 yuan) in China.

Although the electric version’s range has yet to be revealed, it will feature a 201 hp (250 kW) electric motor and LFP battery pack.

The new teaser images come after GM’s Wuling brand launched the 2024 Bingo EV last week. Starting at $9,800 (70,800 yuan), the new electric car is aimed at BYD’s cheapest Seagull EV, which costs $9,700 (69,800 yuan).

Check back as more info is expected soon. Can Wuling’s new electric vehicles compete with BYD or Tesla? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Source: CarNewsChina, Wuling Silver Label