We recently reported about Chery Automobiles’ first production electric vehicle the Ruilin M1. To add more to the electric vehicle world Wheego Electric Cars has also launched a similar spec electric vehicle dubbed the LiFe. Both the cars are powered by an all-electric engine that offers zero tailpipe emissions.
Why the comparison
Since both the cars have a similar powertrain and offer similar specifications, not to mention their similar looks as well, both the cars use different battery technologies that change their performance specifications as well.
The Chery Ruilin M1 story
Developed by Chinese car manufacturer Chery Automobiles, the Ruilin M1 is powered by a lithium-ion phosphate battery pack developed by China BAK, which offers it a top speed of about 75mph with an all-electric range of about 93 miles on a single charge.
• The Green Side:
Since the Chery Ruilin M1 is powered entirely by electric batteries, there are no direct carbon emissions from the vehicle. Moreover the claimed range of 93 miles is quite decent and makes us believe that the vehicle weight will be comparatively less to better efficiency.
• The Dark Side:
The Ruilin M1 has been launched in China, which already is the largest consumer of coal in the world that is used up to generate electricity. Moreover, China’s coal mining industry is one of the deadliest in the world and has the world worst safety record. The country is now outlining plans to generate renewable electricity, which might benefit its EV industry in the near future.
The Wheego LiFe Story
Atlanta-based Wheego Electric Cars has recently announced that the company will be one of the first to deliver a highway-ready EV when it announces the LiFe compact car at the LA Auto Show. The LiFe is powered by a lithium-iron battery pack that offers it a range of about 100 miles with a top speed of 70mph.
• The Green Side:
Similar to the Ruilin M1, the LiFe too is powered by an all-electric engine that offers zero tailpipe emissions. Moreover, it has a comparatively better range with slightly lesser speed. The LiFe is powered by lithium-iron battery pack that is less expensive and less prone to melt-downs that lithium-ion batteries that are commonly used in EVs.
• The Dark Side:
With a top speed of 70mph, the Wheego LiFe could have just managed to get a highway-ready status. For drivers who want more on the highway, the Wheego LiFe could be a little too slow. Moreover, if you’re charging your LiFe using electricity sourced from a coal-fired power plant you’re still polluting the environment.
The Final Verdict
Both the cars let consumers enjoy a zero-emission commute, which can be made better if the consumers install a few solar panels on the roof of their garage to charge their EVs. While the Ruilin M1 is more for consumers who want a fast EV, the Wheego LiFe is more for those who want their EV to last a few more miles.
