Simply when the V8 gave the impression to be fading away, China’s GWM introduces a plug-in hybrid model of the bent-eight, geared toward its Tank, Cannon, and future luxurious manufacturers.
On the latest Shanghai motor present, GWM unveiled a 4.0-liter turbocharged petrol V8 with a PHEV system, marking its entry into an elite group of high-performance automobiles. At present, only a few vehicles make the most of a V8/PHEV mixture, with notable examples together with the BMW M5 and XM, Bentley’s Continental GT and Flying Spur, Aston Martin Valhalla, and Ferrari’s SF90.
This transfer stands out, particularly as many producers are phasing out V8s whereas GWM embraces the “P2 hybrid” method, positioning the electrical motor between the transmission and the 4.0L turbo petrol engine.
Whereas GWM has but to launch particular energy and torque figures for the brand new setup, expectations are excessive, particularly provided that the model beforehand outfitted its Tank 700 Hi4-T PHEV Launch Version with a strong 386kW/850Nm twin-turbo V6. For comparability, BMW’s M5 delivers 535kW and 1000Nm, with a 68km pure electrical vary.
So, what automobiles will function the brand new 4.0L V8 PHEV? On the Shanghai occasion, GWM additionally showcased a rugged Hooke Path particular version of the Tank 300 mid-size SUV, hinting it may very well be one of many first to undertake this powerhouse.
This off-road-enhanced Hooke Path mannequin, designed for rugged terrain, may current a finances various to luxurious rivals just like the AMG G-Wagen. For fanatics lamenting the absence of a V8 Jeep Wrangler, this improvement might supply a viable possibility.
Whereas the Tank 300 displayed on the present did not have the V8 PHEV, GWM indicated {that a} future variant may. James Yang, GWM’s head of world RHD markets, prompt that the premium Tank 700 SUV may very well be an appropriate candidate for this highly effective engine.
At present, solely the Tank 300 and 500 fashions can be found in Australia, however plans for the Tank 700 are into account. Yang confirmed that the V8 engine is “undoubtedly one thing we’re contemplating” for right-hand drive markets like Australia.
One other potential software for the V8 PHEV is within the GWM Cannon Alpha dual-cab ute. This pickup is bigger than typical one-ton automobiles just like the Ford Ranger or Toyota HiLux, providing a compelling efficiency possibility with glorious towing and off-road capabilities.
Based on Yang, a plug-in hybrid V8 can be notably advantageous in Australia, offering emissions-free city driving, compliance with CO2 discount laws, and longer vary capabilities than a purely electrical massive pickup.
GWM can also be exploring the event of a full-size pickup, a perfect match for the V8 PHEV; nevertheless, present tariffs current challenges.
Globally, GWM has seen vital progress and was ranked as Australia’s tenth largest automobile model by quantity in 2024. A stream of recent fashions and presumably even a luxurious model, positioned above GWM’s present Wey line, might be anticipated. This new luxurious marque might very effectively embody V8 PHEV choices, additional increasing GWM’s attain into high-end markets.
In abstract, GWM’s surprising revival of the V8 gives thrilling prospects for efficiency fanatics, with guarantees of a powertrain that will probably be a “secret weapon in luxurious markets” and cater to these in search of an exhilarating driving expertise.
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