Here’s a matchup that’s as unexpected as it is intriguing. First up is the Inverex XIO—brought to you by the same company that kept your lights on with solar inverters, now hoping to charge up your daily commute cheaper than CD70. Yes, Inverex claims that their XIO EV car only costs Rs.4 per kilometre, and that’s even cheaper than the per-km cost of CD70, which is about Rs.5.5 per kilometre.
Now, this XIO EV car gives direct competition to GUGO GIGI—a tiny and compact EV with running costs so low they’ll put a smile on even the grumpiest gasoline lover’s face. While not specified by the company, we are assure that this car’s running cost is also way cheaper than any gasoline powered car in Pakistan.
So, we have two small electric machines offering some of the lowest running costs around. But only one question matters: Which of these budget EV oddities deserves your attention—and possibly your cash? Let’s find out.
Pricing Details
The base-trim price of XIO starts from 34 lacs for the 140 Km range variant, mid trim for 42 lacs with up to 220 Km range and top-spec variant for 52 lacs with up to 320 Km range variant. Note that all these prices are ex-factory pricing.
At the time of publishing this blog, we came to know that Inverex is offering a limited-time discount on the XIO’s pricing. We recommend contacting your nearest dealership to confirm if this offer is still available.
On the GIGI side, you only get one trim that costs 33 lacs with range of up to 220 Km. Again, it’s ex-factory pricing.
Variants Selection
Inverex XIO is available in three variants, but we’ve selected the base model, the XIO EV-140, due to its price, which is close to the GIGI or specifically, it’s 1 lac expensive. On the other hand, the GUGO GIGI offers only one variant in Pakistan, so there’s no choice available in its lineup.
Battery and Performance
When it comes to battery and performance, GIGI clearly takes the lead. It offers higher horsepower, more torque (though only 5 Nm more than the XIO), and an additional 70 km of range. While higher-range XIO models do exist, they come with a heftier price tag. At the same price point, GIGI outperforms the XIO hands down.
| Feature | XIO 140 | GUGO GIGI |
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) | Permanent Magnetic Synchronous Machine |
| Motor Power | 20-30 HP | 40 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Battery Type | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) | Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) |
| Battery Capacity | 14.72 kWh | 16.8 kWh |
| Range (NEDC) | 150 km | 220 km |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Power | 2.8 kW | 3.3 kW |
Dimensions
While both are compact hatchbacks, XIO is longer, wider and taller than GIGI. The wheelbase of XIO is also bigger, which means more legroom in the backseats.
| Feature | XIO 140 | GUGO GIGI |
| Length x Width x Height (mm) | 3584 x 1475 x 1666 | 3030x1495x1640 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2455 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Compact Hatchback | Compact Hatchback |
| Doors | 5 | 3 |
Interior Features
The XIO 140 offers more infotainment and connectivity features with a larger screen and Android Auto. The GUGO GIGI, while more basic, provides touch-based climate control and multifunction steering.
| Feature | XIO 140 | GUGO GIGI |
| Seat Material | Fabric | Not Specified, fabric most probably |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual (Front & Backrest) | Not Specified |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | Not Specified |
| Rear Seat Folding | Fully Folding | Fully Folding |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.1” | 8.8” |
| Instrument Cluster | 7” LCD | 7” LED |
| Speakers | 4 Speakers | 2 Speakers |
| Android Auto | Yes | No |
| Climate Control | No | Yes |
| Steering Wheel | Not Multifunctional | Multifunctional |
Exterior Features
XIO 140 has modern LED lighting and larger alloy wheels, enhancing visual appeal. GUGO GIGI uses traditional halogen lamps, including fog lights and automatic windows with green glass tint.
| Feature | XIO 140 | GUGO GIGI |
| Headlamps | The type of headlamps is not specified | Halogen with bifocal lens |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes (LED) | Yes (LED) |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | No |
| Alloy Wheels | 15” | 13” |
| Mirrors | Electric Adjustable | Electric Adjustable |
| Windows | Power Windows | Power Windows + Green Glass |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
Safety Features
GUGO GIGI offers a more comprehensive set of electronic safety systems, including ESP, traction control, and emergency braking assist. In contrast, the XIO 140 focuses on basic but essential safety features.
| Feature | XIO 140 | GUGO GIGI |
| Airbags | 1 (Driver Side) | 1 (Driver Side) |
| ABS + EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESC/ESP | No | Yes |
| Brake Assist (EBA/BAS) | No | Yes |
| Traction Control (TCS/ASR) | No | Yes |
| Anti-Roll Bar | No | Yes |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Mount | Yes | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Radar | Yes | Yes |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-Hold Brake | No | Yes |
| Central Locking | Yes | Yes |
| Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
Let us know your thoughts on this comparison. Here’s our takeaway: beneath the surface, GIGI packs a better battery and more powerful motor, making it the clear choice if you prioritize range and performance. But step inside, and XIO pulls ahead—offering Android Auto, a larger display, two extra speakers, and superior legroom thanks to its longer wheelbase. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you value power and range or interior tech and comfort.
