In China, FAW's five-door Bestune Pony, a four-seat electric vehicle, is already on sale starting at about $6,735 USD, a price that could interest budget-minded drivers.
However, U.S. shoppers don't have a confirmed launch date or price.
Here's what to know
Climbing into the Pony's back seat doesn't require flipping a front seat out of the way. The design features a pair of rear doors plus a hatch, all within the Pony's 11-foot (3.35-meter) length, according to Digital Trends.
Most of that extra length sits between the axles, adding knee room for rear passengers. For groceries and other everyday purchases, drivers have 70 gallons (265 liters) of cargo space, up from 21.4 gallons (81 liters).
Picking a higher trim comes with a bigger battery, raising the claimed range to about 204 miles (328 kilometers). The base version is rated for about 138 miles (222 kilometers).
Real-world mileage will differ, since both figures come from China's CLTC testing cycle.
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More background
China's market for tiny, inexpensive EVs is already crowded. Wuling's four-door Hongguang Mini EV prices in just under the Pony, at 44,800 yuan versus 44,900 yuan, according to Digital Trends.
The Pony's seating capacity distinguishes it from the Fiat Topolino and Citroën Ami. Those two-seat microcars can't accommodate four passengers like the Pony.
The Pony's cabin includes a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, and higher trims add a 10.1-inch touchscreen in the center console. According to Digital Trends, the rear motor puts out 40 horsepower, enough for a top speed near 64 mph.
What's being done?
FAW's announcement doesn't name any overseas destinations, though the company claims it has already started shipping the Pony abroad.
For shoppers looking to make their next car an EV, lower fuel costs and reduced routine maintenance can add to the appeal of an inexpensive model like the Pony.
Charging arrangements also influence an EV budget. Charging an EV at home often costs half as much as using public chargers, but basic Level 1 charging tends to be slow. Qmerit provides free, instant installation estimates for faster Level 2 home charger installations.
FAW is running a short-term launch discount in China that brings the entry-level Pony down to 39,900 yuan, a 5,000-yuan cut from its regular 44,900-yuan price, according to Digital Trends.
Where can I learn more?
The Pony is one of several lower-priced EVs aimed at buyers outside the United States.
• Hyundai's Ioniq V drops below $15,000, but American drivers still can't buy one.
• In India, Mahindra's new EV starts near $12,000, but buyers must rent the battery.
• Nissan's Wave EV has been spotted for the first time, with pricing below $25,000.
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