Jaecoo J7 PHEV launched – 347 PS/525 Nm from 1.5TGDi plug-in hybrid, 88 km EV range, 20.4 km/l, DC charging
While Jaecoo J7 is about to launch in Malaysia – it’s ready Open for reservations, estimated to cost between RM150k and RM160k – Chery’s premium sub-brand has unveiled the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the stylish SUV at Auto China 2024 in Beijing. It looks pretty similar to the standard car, but its numbers are sure to impress.
Under the hood is a 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine, described as a fifth-generation hybrid version of the device with the best thermal efficiency of 44.5%. Combined with the Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and electric motor at the front, it has a combined output of 347 PS (255 kW) and 525 Nm of torque. For quick comparison, the regular J7 has a 1.6-liter TGDi engine with 197 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque.
The J7 PHEV can run on batteries alone for up to 88 km and in full hybrid mode it is said to have fuel consumption as low as 4.9 l/100 km (20.4 km/l) . Jaecoo says the latter allows for a combined range (on full battery and fuel tank) of more than 1,200km, although it must be said that this is purely a theoretical claim given its 60-litre fuel tank. As usual with PHEVs, real-world fuel consumption can be significantly higher when the battery is depleted.
However, unlike most other PHEVs, Jaecoo’s electrified SUV is capable of DC fast charging, as seen with the CCS2 port on the show car. However, there are still no details about the battery size or charging speed. Another feature present here not commonly found on plug-in hybrid models is V2L external power output capability. The content is neat, perfect for training sessions on off-road adventures.
Visually, new 19-inch wheels with an aerodynamically optimized closed design (similar to those on Chery Omoda E5) marks the PHEV variant, along with an additional charging flap on the right side and no visible air outlet at the rear. Of course, the gasoline engine still has exhaust pipes but they are hidden, consistent with this being a new, cleaner energy variant.
The aerodynamically optimized wheels have apparently helped reduce the J7’s drag coefficient to 0.318 Cd, which is relatively low for an upright, boxy SUV. The fancy Range Rover-like flat door handles (a standard feature of the J7) also play a role here.
There’s no word yet on whether the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will be sold in the Malaysian market, but for now it looks promising, especially considering the incredible pace of development that Chery and Jaecoo are developing. development. Anyway, do you see the J7 PHEV as the best of both worlds or would you just prefer a regular ICE variant along with a pure EV offering? Discuss below!
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