China Expands from Pure Electric to Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and Hybrid?
Chery Automobile Launches Sedan
with Impressive Value for Money
A new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) mid-size sedan, priced competitively at around $15,000, has captured attention as it positions itself against established models like Hyundai’s Sonata. Chinese automakers have been making waves in the EV market, bringing a full spectrum of options—from budget-friendly electric vehicles to high-end luxury EVs that rival traditional premium brands. This diverse lineup is reshaping the automotive landscape and challenging long-standing market players.
However, Chinese manufacturers have recently moved beyond electric vehicles, focusing on hybrid and PHEV technology to broaden their competitive edge. With a reputation for affordability and innovation, Chinese brands now aim to compete with traditional hybrid and PHEV leaders, particularly in Japan. The latest PHEV sedan release from China, starting at just $15,000, exemplifies this shift. Here’s a closer look at what this vehicle brings to the market.
Resembling Audi and Hyundai’s Azera
Positioned as a Mid-size Sedan
The successor to the sedan Fulwin A8 unveiled by China’s Chery Automobile is the A8L C-DM. As the name suggests, it is characterized by a longer length than the previous model, which has secured additional interior space. At first glance, the headlights, front grille, etc., give off the feeling of an Audi sedan, and the character line on the side creates an atmosphere similar to that of the Hyundai Azera (Grandeur IG, a model for the South Korean market).
In terms of size, the length is 4,790 mm(188.6 inches), the width is 1,843 mm(72.6 inches), the height is 1,487 mm(58.5 inches), and the wheelbase is 2,790 mm(109.8 inches), which is between the Hyundai’s Elantra (Avante for the South Korean market) and the Sonata. The tail lamps feature a horizontally long, straight shape. The most significant feature of this new vehicle is the addition of a plug-in hybrid(PHEV) powertrain.
Equipped with PHEV Powertrain
Affordably Priced in the $15,000 Range
The powertrain comprises a 1.5 turbo engine and an electric motor, generating 154 horsepower. The 18.67 kWh battery pack allows for a range of about 106 km(66 miles) in pure electric mode. The top speed is 185 km/h(115.0 mph). The interior of the vehicle has not yet been specifically disclosed. The official launch is expected to take place at the end of this year.
The price has not been released yet, but based on the existing A8 model, it will be priced between $15,400 and $20,600. The actual performance will be verified after the launch, but it has the advantage of being a PHEV sedan in the $15,000 range.
CarNewsChina
CarNewsChina
Chery Automobile Collaboration with KGM
Meanwhile, China’s Chery Automobile, the country’s number one automobile exporter, recently announced a strategic partnership with South Korean automaker KG Mobility. Through this partnership, the two companies will develop various vehicles that meet the market’s needs, including mid-size SUVs and semi-large SUVs.
KG Mobility currently produces electric and internal combustion engines but has not yet launched vehicles equipped with Hybrid and PHEV powertrains. In particular, there is a high demand for Hybrid and PHEV launches for popular mid-sized SUV models such as Actyon and Torres, and expectations are high for what kind of image they will show through collaboration with Chery Automobile.
Most Commented