This is the Maxus MIFA 9, a fully electric MPV that can be had with electric sliding doors in either 6, 7 or 8 seater configurations as well as optional electrically extendable seats to suit wheelchair users. MIFA 9 is designed exclusively as a 100% electric vehicle. The MIFA 9’s CATL 93 kWh lithium ion battery delivering a range of up to 560 km on the NEDC cycle. Maxus says a larger battery option is in the works for a 650 km range in the future. The 90 kWh battery powers a 180 kW (240 hp), 350 Nm single motor on the front axle, which isn’t going to take it to 100 km/h in crazy sub-4 second times, but is sufficient for it’s purpose.
In case you were wondering what MIFA
stands for – it’s actually named after the new platform that it’s built on –
Maxus Intelligent Flexible Architecture, although the marketing department has
decided an alternative meaning for it – Maximum, Intelligent, Friendly and
Artistic. It’s big and spacious – measuring 5,270 mm long, 2,000 mm wide and
1,840 mm tall with a generous 3,200 mm wheelbase.
There have already been a few MPVs like
this developed for the China market, but sadly a lot of them end up being left
hand drive only, focused on domestic sales. Outside of China, the only thing
that can come close to being an electric Alphard is the Mercedes-Benz EQV, an
electric version of the V-Class. But that’s built on a rear wheel drive van
platform, and people are used to their luxury MPVs being built from passenger
car platforms like the Alphard.
The Maxus MIFA 9 is also technically a
Chinese MPV – it may have its roots in the old British LDV brand but it is a
SAIC brand now. The good news is Maxus MIFA 9 will get a right hand drive
version because that’s how they drive in the UK. SAIC also owns MG, which makes
the MG ZS EV that was supposed be launched in Malaysia officially some time
ago, but is currently only available at parallel importers.
No official UK price
yet, as that’s scheduled to be revealed only next month, but it is rumoured to
go for 49,900 GBP.
