In April 2025, the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) landscape witnessed a significant development with the official launch of the SSC SC-01, a sleek, high-performance electric sports car priced at approximately $31,530 (300,000 yuan). This two-seater coupe is the brainchild of Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, a startup backed by tech giant Xiaomi. The SC-01, also called the JMEV 01, represents a fusion of cutting-edge engineering and affordability, aiming to make electric sports cars accessible to a broader audience.
Origins and Development
The journey of the SC-01 began in September 2022 when Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, founded by automotive enthusiast and YouTuber Feng Xiaotong, unveiled the concept of a lightweight electric sports car. With Xiaomi’s investment of tens of millions of yuan and the involvement of co-founder Liu Dezheng as a director, the project gained significant momentum. The startup’s vision was to create a performance-oriented EV that didn’t compromise on design or driving experience.
By January 2024, the SC-01 had entered production, and in April 2025, it was officially launched at Auto Shanghai 2025. To facilitate mass production and obtain a sales license, the vehicle was integrated into the JMEV brand—a joint venture between Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) and Renault—resulting in its rebranding as the JMEV 01.
Design and Engineering
The SC-01 boasts a compact yet aggressive design, measuring 4,106 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, and 1,170 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,503 mm. Its low-slung profile and aerodynamic contours are complemented by sharp headlights and circular taillights, giving it a distinctive sports car aesthetic.
Underneath its stylish exterior lies a chromium-molybdenum steel tube frame, contributing to a curb weight of just 1,365 kg. This lightweight construction, combined with a mid-mounted battery layout, ensures optimal weight distribution and handling characteristics akin to mid-engine sports cars like the Lotus Elise and Toyota MR2.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the SC-01 are two Enpower-supplied permanent magnet synchronous motors, each delivering 160 kW (214 hp), resulting in a combined output of 320 kW (429 hp) and 560 Nm of torque. This dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h.
Power is supplied by a 60 kWh ternary (NMC) battery from CALB, offering a CLTC-rated range of 520 km. The battery supports fast charging, allowing it to charge from 30% to 80% in under 25 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime during long journeys.
Interior and Features
Inside, the SC-01 emphasizes a driver-centric approach. The cabin features racing seats, physical buttons for essential controls, and an Edifier audio system, blending functionality with comfort. The minimalist interior design underscores the car’s performance-oriented nature, focusing on delivering an engaging driving experience.
Additionally, the vehicle offers multiple drive modes, including front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and sport mode, allowing drivers to tailor the driving dynamics to their preferences. Active thermal management technology ensures optimal performance and battery longevity under various driving conditions.
Market Position and Competition
Priced at approximately $31,530, the SC-01 positions itself as an affordable alternative in the electric sports car segment. Its combination of performance, design, and price makes it a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking an electric sports car without the premium price tag.
In the broader context, Xiaomi’s involvement in the SC-01 project complements its own electric vehicle endeavors, such as the SU7 sedan. The SU7, priced below $30,000, aims to compete with models like Tesla’s Model 3, showcasing Xiaomi’s commitment to diversifying its product portfolio and entering the competitive EV market.
Conclusion
The launch of the SSC SC-01 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of affordable electric sports cars. By combining performance, design, and accessibility, Tianjin Gongjiangpai Auto Technology, with Xiaomi’s backing, has introduced a vehicle that challenges traditional perceptions of electric sports cars. As the EV market continues to grow, the SC-01 exemplifies how innovation and strategic partnerships can lead to groundbreaking products that resonate with a wide range of consumers.
