SEEING DOUBLE: Weiao BOMA EV is the mini Toyota Alphard we want in the Philippines

The styling looks familiar, right?

The Weiao BOMA EV, China's latest mini electric vehicle (EV), was launched recently and features an exterior design similar to a certain Toyota luxury van.

It has three variants, each offering something unique to the model lineup. Weiao is a new EV brand under the Hongri Electric Vehicle Group, with BOMA EV being manufactured by ZX Auto.

ZX Auto is a long-time player in the Chinese automotive market, specializing in building passenger cars, commercial vehicles and automotive parts. 

Yes, it looks like a Toyota Alphard

The Weiao BOMA EV's styling is evident in the pictures, resembling a shrunken-down Toyota Alphard.

It has a massive grill at the front and projector headlights similar in design to that of its Toyota inspiration. 

Even the rear of the Weiao BOMA looks like an Alphard, as it even copies the design of the taillight design of the plush Japanese van.

However, Weiao has added a reflectorized strip to the tailgate of the BOMA to help differentiate it a bit.

As for its measurements, the BOMA is 3,517 mm long, 1,495 mm wide and 1,660 mm high. It has a wheelbase of 2,495 mm and, surprisingly, rides on fairly large 15-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 165/55 series tires. 

The Weiao BOMA is also available in three colors: white, blue or gold. It will compete against the likes of the Wuling Mini EV, which is one of China’s most popular mini EVs. 

Small design, adequate power

Don’t expect much when it comes to power with the Weiao BOMA EV as it has a single 30-kW electric motor with 84 Nm of torque available.

Small, it may be when it comes to power, but the EV can reach a maximum speed of 100 km/h.

The Weiao BOMA has two types available. The first is an 11.9-kWh battery pack with a range of 130 km on a single charge, while the second is an 18.5-kWh pack that delivers 200 km of driving range. 

As for its charging, reports say that the Weiao BOMA can go from 0 to 100% battery charge in just seven hours.

It is still being determined what kind of battery charging capabilities it has. However, we suspect it could have a Type 2 charger.

Big tech for a small car

The interior of the Weiao BOMA is simple, with just a horizontal dashboard and cloth seats.

However, It does come with two massive displays. The first is a 7-inch fully digital display for its gauge cluster, while the second is a 9-inch infotainment system. 

Despite its small dimensions, the EV has a 6-speaker sound system.

As for its safety, the Weiao BOMA has parking sensors, ABS with EBD and a tire pressure monitoring system. Unfortunately, no airbags and electronic stability control are available for the vehicle.

Would this little pseudo-Alphard be a hit if it were brought to the Philippine market? 

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