Since the original model was introduced in the summer of 1959, the Mini has become an icon of the global automotive industry.

However, while the latest versions of the Mini continue to set the standard in its class, most drivers feel that this iconic car has become too expensive and regret the days when it was one of the most affordable models on the market.

If you’re a Mini fan but don’t have the money to buy one, don’t despair – there’s a much more affordable alternative that still requires a “small compromise”.

This Mini isn’t British at all, it’s Chinese, and it’s not even a real Mini – it’s available on Alibaba for just €3,077!

The Shandong Keyu TC-T is a 5-door electric microcar and shares many visual features with the original Mini, such as the distinctive round headlights.

Similar to the original Mini Cooper, customers are offered a wide range of colours, including two-tone models.

Despite this, the low price means that there is a limited amount of standard equipment. However, Shandong Keyu says that the model comes with electric front windows, central locking and an LCD screen.

So much money, so much music
However, compared to the recently introduced Mini Cooper Electric, the Chinese EV has a major handicap.

It uses an electric motor of only 3.5 kW for propulsion, which provides the car with performance similar to the new Citroen Ama.

The model’s maximum speed is limited to just 45 km/h, and the maximum range is between 80 and 100 kilometers.