Small cars are making a comeback, thanks to the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). Geely’s Director of Product Planning and Marketing, Andrew Tuitahi, sees “promising signs” for the segment, as EVs encourage buyers to reconsider smaller options. Historically, small and light cars have seen a decline in popularity, but Tuitahi believes the accessibility of electric technology is shifting consumer attitudes. He notes that while sales figures haven’t yet confirmed a full revival, there’s growing interest in compact EVs, suggesting a potential turnaround.
Electric cars redefine small car appeal
Tuitahi told CarsGuide that “new energy” vehicles are causing people to reconsider. “A lot of the compromises” once associated with light and small cars “are solved with a battery electric platform.” He emphasized that compact EVs are addressing concerns such as drivetrain, power, performance, safety, style, and space. This transformation is making smaller vehicles more appealing, as consumers can prioritize features without sacrificing practicality.
The Geely EX2, for instance, offers features that address many of these concerns. While its base model has a modest 60kW output, the Inspire variant boosts this to 80kW. Tuitahi highlighted that the EX2’s compact size doesn’t compromise on interior space, making it a versatile option.
Range anxiety takes a back seat
For small EVs, range is less of a priority than in larger models, Tuitahi noted. “It really depends on the use case,” he said. “Someone charging once a week would be within that range for an EX2.” He stressed that dealers should help customers understand their specific needs, ensuring they choose the right vehicle for their lifestyle. By focusing on daily usage patterns, small EVs like the EX2 can effectively meet the demands of most drivers without requiring frequent long-distance travel.
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Dealers are encouraged to help customers assess their needs. Someone who can trickle charge every day is never going to be less than 70 or 80 per cent battery, Tuitahi said, emphasizing that range becomes less of an issue for daily driving based on use case.
Compact EVs gain traction
The Geely EX2 exemplifies this shift, offering a compact design without compromising on features. Tuitahi noted, “So I think consumers are able to prioritise maybe some features by sacrificing a segment, but still getting that same space.” This model showcases how modern EVs can deliver features in a smaller package, challenging the notion that larger vehicles are inherently better.
While sales figures have yet to reflect a full-scale revival, the interest in these models suggests a potential turnaround for small cars. As EVs continue to evolve, their impact on market trends will be one to watch. Tuitahi remains optimistic, noting that the combination of affordability, practicality, and technology in compact EVs could redefine the automotive environment.