Hello! This article is based on a YouTube video where a Mini Countryman EV owner evaluates their experiences in Istanbul traffic and discusses the current electric vehicle (EV) options available in the Turkish market. Popular models are compared, particularly regarding price, performance, features, and efficiency.
Experience with the Mini Countryman EV in Istanbul Traffic
The video creator is driving the Mini Countryman EV in Istanbul traffic because their usual diesel car is in service. They share their experiences, especially in heavy stop-and-go traffic.
Vehicle: New Mini Countryman EV
Driving Condition: Istanbul, Ataşehir area, heavy stop-and-go traffic.
Consumption: For approximately 50 km of city driving, consumption averages around 12.6 - 13.2 kWh/100 km.
Range Estimate: The screen currently shows an estimated range of 257 km. However, the car provides a range forecast between a minimum of 130 km (with aggressive driving) and a maximum of 290 km (with very calm driving). These values are given with a 64% state of charge.
Highlighted Features:
- B Mode: Provides strong regenerative braking, offering a one-pedal driving experience, comfortable in stop-and-go traffic.
- D Adaptive Mode: Adjusts regeneration level based on the vehicle ahead.
- Automatic Hold: Eliminates the need to keep the brake pedal pressed when the vehicle is stopped.
- Material Quality and Driving Feel: The driver highly praises the vehicle's material quality, rigidity (feeling of solidity), and driving dynamics.
- Shortcomings (on this specific vehicle): This particular trim level lacks adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.
Turkish Electric Car Market: Which Model to Choose?
Based on personal experiences, the video creator evaluates popular electric vehicles in the market:
Tesla Model Y
If it were readily available and versions falling into the 10% SCT bracket (around 1.9 - 2 Million TL range) were accessible, the Tesla Model Y SR would be top in terms of price/performance. However, current availability issues and some personal concerns about perceived quality place it lower on the list for now.
Mini Countryman EV
The owner praises the quality, driving feel, and efficiency of their own vehicle, the Mini Countryman EV. However, they point out that some important features like adaptive cruise control might be missing, especially in lower trim levels. They position it similarly to Togg in terms of price but note that it stands out for its quality feel.
Togg T10X
Besides the positive feeling associated with it being domestically produced, Togg's design and material quality are found to be successful. Particularly, the zero-interest loan campaigns (around 500-700k TL at the time of filming) make Togg a very attractive option. Despite not having a heat pump, which increases winter consumption, it's still considered a strong competitor in the cost-benefit balance (especially with the loan advantage).
KG Mobility Torres EVX
Its design is well-liked, contributing to its high sales. The debate about whether it has a heat pump is mentioned, but it's highlighted that winter consumption would likely be high anyway due to its SUV structure. Its large battery capacity (around 77-88 kWh) might compensate somewhat, but overall efficiency is expected to be lower compared to models like the Mini or Ioniq 6.
Hyundai / Kia Group (Ioniq 5/6, EV6, Kona)
Vehicles from this group (especially the Ioniq 6) are noted for their efficiency, with models featuring 800V architecture and heat pumps. However, the Ioniq 6's design might not appeal to everyone, and the chronic ICCU (Integrated Charging Control Unit) failure issue seen in this group's vehicles is highlighted as a serious concern that should be investigated.
Renault Megane E-Tech
Its design is considered nice, but it's briefly mentioned that it doesn't have a heat pump.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Electric Car
- Price and SCT Brackets: Which tax bracket the vehicle falls into significantly affects the total cost.
- Financing Options: Zero-interest loan campaigns, as seen with Togg, can be a major deciding factor.
- Equipment and Features: Features like adaptive cruise control, 360 camera, heat pump, and seat adjustments should be evaluated based on personal priorities.
- Range and Efficiency: The vehicle's real-world consumption values and battery capacity should suit driving habits. SUVs generally consume more than sedans or hatchbacks.
- Charging Infrastructure and Speed: The vehicle's AC/DC charging speeds and compatibility with Turkey's charging station network (especially for 800V architecture).
- Perceived Quality and Driving Feel: Personal expectations and test drive experiences.
- Chronic Issues: Potential chronic problems, like the ICCU issue in the Hyundai/Kia group, should be researched.
Conclusion: Personal Preferences are Key
Under current market conditions (assuming Tesla is not easily available), the video creator summarizes his personal preference ranking as follows:
- Mini Countryman EV: Quality, driving feel, and efficiency.
- Togg T10X: A strong competitor, especially if loan advantages are available; benefit of domestic production.
- Kia EV6: A good alternative.
- Hyundai Ioniq Series / KG Mobility Torres EVX: Can be considered based on design and features, but keep in mind the ICCU risk for Hyundai/Kia and efficiency drawbacks for Torres.
Ultimately, the best electric car choice depends entirely on personal needs, budget, prioritized features, and driving habits. Potential buyers are advised to test drive different models and carefully review current promotions and pricing.