The Bestune Pony: A Game-Changer or Just Another Cute EV?
“The future is electric.”—You’ve probably heard this phrase a hundred times. But here’s the thing—electric vehicles (EVs) from China are taking the world by storm, and one of the most intriguing newcomers is the Bestune Pony.
And I’ve been on an EV kick for quite some time now. I always try my best to check out new EVs. I guess I just got tired of ICEs and my last visit to Manila showed me there were a lot of alternatives that I don’t really get to see in Davao.
It opened my eyes to the possibility of owning an EV.
If you’re in Davao, or anywhere in the Philippines, looking for a mini-EV that’s budget-friendly, compact, and practical, the Pony might just be your best bet.
But is it the perfect fit for your needs?
What is the Bestune Pony?
At first glance, the Bestune Pony looks like a stylish cross between a kei car and a futuristic golf cart. But under the hood (or should we say, under the floor?), it’s a serious electric car that’s built for the city.
This little beast is manufactured by Bestune (a sub-brand of FAW Group in China).
From the looks of it,the Pony is clearly aiming to compete with other China EV models like the Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, DFSK Seres E1, and even our beloved NWOW electric tricycles.
Some of those mentioned above may look better, or are priced better but it the Bestune Pony does have its own unique charm and practical advantages. For starters, let’s take a look at the specs.
Basic Specs:
- Motor Power: 20 kW (27 HP) – not bad for a car this size!
- Torque: 85 Nm – enough to zip through city traffic.
- Battery Options: 13.9 kWh (range varies from 122 km to 170 km).
- Larger Battery Variant: 18.11 kWh with a range of 170 km!
- Charging Time: About 4-5 hours.
- Top Speed: 100 km/h (Hala! Pwede na pang expressway. Too bad you can’t really let loose here in Davao because there is a speed limit!).
- Seating Capacity: 4-seater, pero best for 2-3 passengers for comfort.
- Dimensions: 3,000 mm (L) × 1,510 mm (W) × 1,630 mm (H)
Based on that, the Bestune Pony might be a really great contender that knocks out all the others running in the competition. Now I won’t really point out who, but it’s pretty obvious that the Bestune Pony looks way better than the “competition”.
Other safety features that the Pony has include: a driver side airbag, ABS, reversing camera, uphill assist, and MacPherson Independent struts (very much like an upgraded Volkswagen Beeetle).
The quirky interior is also a great draw.
I mean, just look at the dash.
You get a small tray that has a cupholder and a Lego-style surface. Maybe some nice accessories are coming out soon that’s going to be Lego-inspired like Bluetooth Speakers and the like.
It’s pretty clean inside.
Dare I say sparse?
I definitely like it.
Why the Bestune Pony is a Head-Turner
1. It’s Small but Spacious
Despite its mini-EV size, the interior is well-designed. The two-spoke steering wheel w/ flat bottom, digital dashboard, and smart storage compartments make it feel modern and functional.
Plus, it has a flat floor, giving extra legroom.
2. It’s Affordable
EVs in the Philippines can get pricey, but the Bestune Pony is surprisingly budget-friendly. It’s priced around ₱588,000, making it one of the most affordable four-wheel electric vehicles from China.
Perfect for Davao EV users who want an eco-friendly ride without spending millions.
3. It’s Cute AF
I’ve been using the word “cute” far too many times in this blog… I’m getting worried.
Filipinos love a cute EV, and the Pony delivers! One look and I immediately fell in love with it.
It has a boxy-yet-modern design, two-tone color options, and round headlights that give it that “adorable but not childish” look. I personally like the pink variant.
4. It’s Packed with Safety Features
For a small car, it’s surprisingly safe. You get:
- Driver-side front airbags
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- ISOFIX mounts for child seats (Para safe si baby!)
- Rear camera and parking sensors
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System
5. It’s a Davao-Friendly Car
If you live in Davao, you know the struggle—traffic, narrow streets, and fuel costs going up.
The Pony is a perfect city car: small enough to zip through streets, efficient enough to skip gas stations, and easy to park even in tight spaces (like that tiny spot sa Gaisano parking lot).
Plus, with more charging stations popping up, going electric is becoming a no-brainer.
Should You Buy the Bestune Pony?
Before you rush to the dealership, ask yourself these questions:
✅ Do You Need a Car for Short City Drives?
If you only drive around Davao or within Metro Manila, the Pony’s 170 km range is more than enough. No need for crazy high mileage if all you do is home-to-office or mall runs.
✅ Are You Looking for an Affordable EV?
Compared to other electric car options, this is one of the most budget-friendly. If you’re on a tight budget but want to go electric, this is a solid choice.
✅ Do You Have Access to Charging?
If you can charge at home or near your workplace, this car makes sense. If not, better check the nearest EV charging stations in your area first.
✅ Do You Like Being Different?
Let’s be real. Right now, owning a China EV still makes people turn their heads. If you want something unique and eye-catching, the Pony is a great pick.
Final Thoughts
The Bestune Pony is a fun, affordable, and practical choice for city driving. While it’s not built for long road trips or heavy-duty use, it shines in urban areas where size, efficiency, and affordability matter. If you’re in Davao, this might be the perfect first step into the EV world.
Personally? If I didn’t already have my eye on a bigger EV, I’d get one in a heartbeat. Cute, practical, and easy on the wallet—what more can you ask for?
So, is the Bestune Pony the best EV for you?
Only you can decide, but one thing’s for sure—the future is electric, and it’s looking a lot more exciting!Want more content like this? Comment below or send me an email.
