Chery details new hybrid-only platform

CHERY has detailed a new hybrid-only vehicle platform it says will feature several technological innovations when it arrives as the basis for a range of new vehicles from 2025.

The Super Hybrid Power Platform will feature a petrol-electric hybrid driveline combining a direct injected and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit with electric power, a three-speed direct hybrid transmission, and system power of 165kW and 400Nm.

The Chinese brand says vehicles built on the new platform “will achieve the comprehensive evolution of four aspects including future intelligence, comprehensive comfort, efficient power, and superior safety”.

Computing duties will fall to a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor which Chery says will enable 5G and gigabit ethernet support, hinting that in time vehicles will be able to communicate with one another – or at the very least offer some form of autonomous driving capability – in “all travel scenarios”.

Ride comfort is also a focus of the newly announced architecture, the Magnetic Levitation system said to improve comfort by 30 per cent, with all-wheel drive models to offer “flying-like manoeuvrability, smooth and comfortable riding experience, and double-extremely superior travelling experience” when compared with its current T1X platform.

Higher standards of cabin air filtration, a “five-star safety standard”, up to 10 airbags, and pre-emptive crash avoidance technologies are also set to be included. Chery says the features are part of a range of enhancements that will bolster “comfort in the aspects of auditory, olfactory, tactile and visual sense through the co-development with the world-top suppliers”.

“We believe that it is a great opportunity to keep us with the technological evolution in the era of intelligent connection for everything; it is also an opportunity that Chinese brands are accelerating the progress of globally,” said Chery Automobile deputy general manager Zhang Guozhong.

“Therefore, Chery will not only accelerate its technological layout of the competition of new energy and intelligence, but also keep promoting scenario innovation, eco innovation with client-oriented concept and intelligent oriented concept so as to eventually develop an ecosystem of intelligent connection for everything.”

Chery launched its Omoda 5 SUV in Australia this month and plans to offer petrol-powered Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 Pro models from Q3 this year. The trio will be followed by the release of an all-electric version of the Omoda 5 in the first half of 2024.