SHANGHAI MOTOR SHOW: GWM-Haval Xiaolong Max PHEV debuts

GWM has debuted a new electrified mid-size SUV that could eventually replace the current GWM-Haval H6, and it’s called the Xiaolong Max PHEV.

Known internally as the B07, the Xiaolong Max is underpinned by the Chinese car-maker’s next-generation Hi4 hybrid platform and features a unique new plug-in hybrid powertrain comprising a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder, up to two electric motors and a 20kWh battery pack.

GWM says a full battery and fuel tank should see the Xiaolong Max cover 1200km before it needs recharging or refuelling and that the PHEV system will continue to operate as a traditional hybrid even when the battery is depleted.

The system combines to output 205kW of power and what will be a segment-leading 585Nm of torque, while consuming a claimed 5.5L/100km and offering up to 105km of all-electric driving.

GWM says a full battery and fuel tank should see the B07 cover 1200km before it needs recharging or refueling and that the PHEV system will continue to operate as a traditional hybrid even when the battery is depleted.

“Traditional PHEV loses all the efficiency gained by the short 50-60km EV range due to heavier battery weight using an ICE engine and make the car not very energy efficient after all,” the B07’s chief product leader said.

“So in order to differ from the traditional perception, we believe it’s fair to call it ‘EV+’ thanks to the EV-like drive feel and the ability to plus all the 1000km range you’ll get even when battery is low.”

The Hi4 platform has been designed to deliver maximum capability and configurability with selectable all-wheel drive, torque vectoring and a more efficient regenerative braking system.

But while the B07 has been designed from the ground up as a ‘new energy vehicle’ or ‘NEV’, it’s still ultimately a medium SUV designed to lug families and their stuff about, and so comfort and practically was also a top priority.

The new model measures 4758mm long, 1895mm wide and 1725mm tall – making it 105mm longer, 9mm wider and 1mm taller than the H6 – and rides on a 2800mm wheelbase, all of which combines to offer 551 litres of boot space (VDA) and up to 1377L of total cargo volume when the second row is stowed.

The interior is a technology-rich environment with infotainment duties handled by a 12.3-inch display, while drivers are greeted by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10-inch head-up display.

Myriad advanced driver aids will be on offer courtesy of GWM’s ‘Coffee Intelligence’ driving suite, though specific features are yet to be detailed.

“We are excited to unveil the GWM B07, which represents the culmination of our efforts to deliver the best new energy SUV to our users,” said GWM.

“With its innovative design and ground-breaking features, the GWM B07 is set to redefine the benchmark of new energy SUV value, and we can’t wait for our users to experience it.”

Exactly when Australian consumers will be able to experience what’s been declared as “Haval’s strategic model for its transformation to new energy” remains to be seen, but GWM has confirmed it intends to launch the B07 in most of its key export markets following its Chinese release in May.

carsales has reached out to GWM-Haval Australia for confirmation of release timing for our market and where the B07 will be positioned within the local model range.

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