Tag Archives: plug in hybrid

NEWS

2025 Tank 300 now available in diesel variant with 2.4T engine, 181 hp, 480 Nm, 9AT

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has updated its offerings for the 2025 off-road SUV model, the Tank 300, introducing a brand-new diesel engine variant for customers.

The Tank 300 diesel is powered by a 2.4-liter turbo engine that delivers 181 horsepower and 480 Nm of torque.

With a nine-speed automatic transmission (9AT), the Tank 300 is said to provide a smoother driving experience, boasting an efficiency rate of up to 97 percent!

In addition to the 2.0-liter turbo petrol variant (217 hp/380 Nm), the Tank 300 is also available in a Hi4-T plug-in hybrid version.

The total output of the Tank 300 Hi4-T can reach 402 hp and 750 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.7 seconds and offering an emissions-free range of up to 105 km.

Ten driving modes are also available.

Significant changes have been made to the cabin, with the Tank 300 now featuring a 14.6-inch infotainment screen powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, a 12.3-inch digital cluster display, a column-mounted gear shifter, and a new steering wheel.

Additionally, it includes a 12-speaker audio system, Coffee OS 3 operating system, active noise cancellation, and Nappa leather seating.

Due to the relocation of the gear shifter and the revamped layout of the functional buttons on the center console, the cockpit now appears more spacious and tidy.

In terms of exterior design, the 2025 Tank 300 retains the same aesthetic as the existing model, but it adds a new desert yellow color option.

In China, the starting price for the 2025 Tank 300 is 199,800 yuan (RM122,070), with the diesel variant starting from 234,800 yuan (RM143,454), and the Hi4-T variant starting at 249,800 yuan (RM152,618).

 

Tank 300 Hi4-T

Tank 300 Petrol & Diesel

NEWS

Lynk & Co 900 luxury SUV debuts with 1.5L and 2.0L PHEV engine options

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The Lynk & Co 900 is a luxury SUV with a six-seat configuration that is set to enter the Chinese market this March.

Built on the SPA Evo platform, the Lynk & Co 900 measures 5,240 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, with a wheelbase exceeding three meters (3,160 mm).

On the exterior, this SUV features design elements commonly found in Lynk & Co models (as well as Zeekr).

For instance, it boasts sharp LED daytime running lights, followed by low-mounted headlights positioned in the bumper.

From a side view, the Lynk & Co 900 incorporates design elements inspired by the Range Rover, while the rear presents a more streamlined lighting unit.

Three plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain options are available for buyers.

The base variant of the Lynk & Co 900 comes with a 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with two electric motors (215 hp front/308 hp rear), producing a total power output of 710 hp.

There is also a 2.0-liter turbo engine option, with the first version paired with a 165 hp electric motor in the front, followed by a 308 hp electric motor at the rear axle, bringing the total power output to 724 hp.

The most powerful version is equipped with three electric motors, including a 165 hp front motor and a pair of 215 hp rear motors, generating a staggering 845 hp!

This top variant is said to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds.

The interior of the Lynk & Co 900 features a rather unique dashboard layout.

For the driver, there is a relatively small 12.66-inch digital cluster screen, while front passengers enjoy a large 30-inch floating display with a 6K resolution.

Additionally, it includes two wireless charging slots, ambient lighting, and a floating armrest on the door panel.

For second-row passengers, a small screen is provided on the center console, and a 30-inch 6K display that can be concealed in the roof lining.

As of now, the retail price for the Lynk & Co 900 SUV has not yet been announced.

NEWS

Toyota Alphard/Vellfire PHEV launched in Japan, 73 km EV range, starting from RM306k

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Toyota has announced its latest update, introducing the 2025 model year Alphard/Vellfire with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) engine option.

This PHEV configuration combines a 2.5-liter engine (A25A-FXS) with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, capable of providing an electric driving range of up to 73 km on a full charge.

Overall, the system can generate a power output of up to 306 PS.

Like Toyota’s conventional hybrid vehicles, the BEV mode is prioritized to achieve lower fuel consumption rates of 16.7 km/liter (or 5.98 liters/100 km).

According to Toyota, the lithium-ion battery pack is positioned under the floor to maximize cabin space and lower the center of gravity by 35 mm compared to the HEV model.

Charging the battery (up to 80 percent) takes approximately 38 minutes.

In addition to offering a quieter driving experience (with added sound insulation), enhanced comfort, and reduced vibrations, Toyota has introduced the Smooth Stop control feature, which prevents nose-dive effects during deceleration to ensure passenger comfort.

The PHEV model also features “My Room Mode,” allowing users to enjoy a comfortable cabin space for working, resting, or engaging in other activities while charging.

Along with the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, both the Alphard and Vellfire PHEVs are equipped with a Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) feature for emergency purposes, where a full tank of fuel and a charged battery can provide power for up to 5.5 days.

Other enhancements include a Digital Inner Mirror system and front and rear dash cameras as standard features, followed by a premium JBL audio system with 15 speakers and a 14-inch rear infotainment system for the Z and Z Premier trims.

Toyota Auto Body also offers the Alphard Spacious Lounge, a four-seat version that provides more legroom and is equipped with various luxurious amenities.

In Japan, the retail price of the Alphard PHEV starts at JPY 10,650,000 (RM306,177), while the Vellfire PHEV is priced from JPY 10,850,000 (RM311,927).

NEWS

2025 Jaecoo J7 PHEV, 342 hp/525 Nm, estimated price RM170k, official launch this year

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Jaecoo Malaysia today began the preview session for the new J7 PHEV SUV model that will be launched this year, located at Sunway Pyramid.

The plug-in hybrid SUV will be sold at an estimated price of around RM170,000 for the 2WD version.

Unlike the standard J7, which comes with a 1.6-liter turbo engine, the J7 PHEV is equipped with a fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbo engine (141 hp/215 Nm), electric motor (201 hp/310 Nm), and an 18.3 kWh battery pack.

Overall, the J7 PHEV is capable of generating up to 342 hp and a torque of 525 Nm, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds and a fuel consumption rate as low as 4.9 liters/100 km.

According to Jaecoo, the J7 PHEV can operate in zero-emission mode for up to 106 km, with an overall range reaching 1,300 km on a full tank of fuel.

The 2WD version comes with three driving modes, namely Economy, Standard, and Sports.

In terms of exterior, the design of the J7 PHEV does not show significant changes except for the aerodynamic 19-inch rims (235/50 R19 tires) and the battery charging port on the right side.

It also retains the MacPherson front suspension setup followed by a multilink at the rear, and the same dimension size as the petrol J7 model.

The cargo space of the J7 PHEV has also increased to 500 liters and can reach up to 1,265 liters when the second-row seats are folded.

The J7 PHEV cabin features include a 10.25-inch cluster screen, a 14.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and dual-zone climate control.

The most advanced safety features included are automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring system, emergency lane-keeping assistance, intelligent high-beam assistance, lane departure warning, rear traffic warning, and traffic jam assistance.

There are three available colors, including black (Carbon Crystal Black), white (Crystal White), and silver (Moonlight Silver), all with a black roof.

NEWS

Jaecoo J7 PHEV successfully proves driving 1,300 km on one full tank

The Malaysian contingent and six other nations has successfully demonstrated that the Jaecoo J7 PHEV model is capable of traveling over 1,300 km on one tank of fuel and a full battery in a marathon event from Guangzhou to Wuhu, China last week.

The 13-hour journey, which began on October 16, witnessed the Jaecoo J7 PHEV achieving an emission-free distance of 125.2 km, or 19.2 km further than the official distance.

According to the specifications, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV is powered by a 1.5-liter TGDi engine with an electric motor, DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) transmission, and an 18.3 kWh battery pack, offering an electric driving range of 106 km, as well as the best fuel consumption rate in its class, approximately 5.99 liters per 100 km.

According to Jaecoo Malaysia’s Vice President, Emily Lek, “this success proves the excellence of Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology, which offers efficient and energy-saving driving and sets a new benchmark for efficient transportation.”

For the local market, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will be offered in two variants, namely 2WD and AWD.

The 2WD variant comes with the options of Standard, Sport, and Economy driving modes, while the AWD version adds Sand, Mud, Snow, and Off-Road modes.

This plug-in hybrid SUV is set to be launched towards the end of this year, with distribution expected to start in February 2025.

NEWS

2025 Geely Galaxy Starship 7 – midsize SUV with plug-in hybrid technology “Thor”

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In the coming weeks, Geely is set to launch its latest SUV model in the Galaxy series, the Galaxy Starship 7.

This SUV is built on the new Global Energy Architecture (GEA) platform that supports the super electric hybrid “Thor” technology, referring to the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain configuration.

The mentioned Thor system consists of a 1.5-liter engine and a single electric motor that drives the front wheels, paired with a battery pack sourced from SVOLT.

According to Geely, there are two battery pack capacity options available, namely a 19.09 kWh that can offer an electric range of up to 101 km, or a 28.94 kWh with a zero-emission range of 150 km.

In terms of dimensions, the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,905 mm in width, 1,685 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,755 mm.

This makes the Galaxy Starship 7 almost as large as SUV models like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.

Despite its somewhat futuristic name, the design of the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 appears quite conventional, reminiscent of the Porsche Macan/Cayenne models, especially at the rear.

As for the cabin space, the Galaxy Starship 7 features a large central infotainment screen, followed by a smaller digital cluster screen behind the two-spoke steering wheel.

The central console houses a wireless device charging slot, main control buttons, cupholders, and storage space at the bottom complete with additional USB slots.

More information is expected to be revealed closer to the official launch later this year. The most important question – will this be rebranded into a Proton car?

NEWS

2025 Ford Ranger PHEV debuts, with 275 hp and 690 Nm, 45 km EV range

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Approximately a year after the announcement was made, Ford has officially launched the mid-size pickup truck Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) at the IAA Transportation 2024, Hannover.

The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV is powered by the EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbo engine paired with a single 101 hp electric motor placed within the transmission bellhousing.

Overall, this PHEV can generate up to 275 hp and 690 Nm, much more powerful than the existing petrol and diesel engines for the Ranger (except for the Raptor).

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and the e-4WD system, featuring a rear differential lock and a two-range transfer case.

The 11.8 kWh battery pack allows this pickup truck to travel emission-free for up to 45 km, with a full charge possible in less than four hours.

In addition to the regenerative braking function, the Ford Ranger PHEV is also equipped with the Pro Power Onboard system, enabling owners to use power tools, charge electronic devices, or use it as a generator for off-grid activities.

As standard, the Pro Power Onboard system provides 2.3 kW of power, with an option for 6.9 kW.

Due to the addition of the PHEV system, Ford engineers have tweaked the pickup truck’s suspension system, yet it is still capable of carrying a payload of up to 1 ton and towing loads of up to 3,500 kg.

Externally, the appearance of the Ford Ranger PHEV 2025 is identical to the standard Ford Ranger, except for the presence of a charging port located near the fuel tank cap on the rear fender.

At the same time, Ford has also launched the special edition Ranger Stormtrak exclusively for the Ranger PHEV.

Unique features include 18-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb patterns on the grille, special decals, PHEV badging, and the exclusive Chill Grey color.

Additionally, the Ranger Stormtrak is equipped with Matrix LED headlights, a Flexible Rack System in the rear bed, a B&O sound system with 10 speakers, a 12-inch infotainment screen, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

The Ford Ranger PHEV will be produced at the Silverton plant in South Africa and will be exported to the markets in Australia, Europe, and New Zealand in time for the spring of 2025.

NEWS

Ferrari extends PHEV battery warranty period to 16 years

Cars with plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems can offer unique benefits to buyers still hesitant to purchase EVs, but one lingering nightmare for some users is the relatively expensive cost of battery replacement.

This concern is particularly pronounced when they choose to purchase high-performance models such as Ferrari and Lamborghini supercars.

For Ferrari owners, the Prancing Horse brand now offers two extended warranty plans for PHEV models such as the SF90 Stradale, SF90 Spider, SF90 XX Stradale, SF90 XX Spider, 296 GTB, and 296 GTS.

The two plans in question are the Warranty Extension Hybrid and Power Hybrid, targeting Ferrari owners who want to maintain the performance and excellence of their hybrid sports cars over time.

 

 

The Warranty Extension Hybrid plan offers a warranty period of up to eight years of ownership, during which high-voltage batteries will be replaced at no additional cost.

Meanwhile, the Power Hybrid plan is a long-term plan that covers all main components, including the hybrid system, from the eighth to the sixteenth year.

This means that if the PHEV battery pack encounters issues in the sixteenth year, it will also be replaced free of charge.

 

 

Interestingly, in the future, supercar PHEV Ferrari owners may be able to enjoy much more advanced and sophisticated battery technology.

According to Ferrari, problematic high-voltage batteries will be replaced with new components that promise the same or even better performance than the original battery.

This long-term plan can also be transferred to any subsequent owner who purchases the supercar after the original owner sells it.

Ferrari also explains that this new plan is available for any supercar no longer covered under the original manufacturer’s warranty, but it requires a thorough technical inspection.