- Chinese auto giants BYD and Geely are vying to develop ultra-long-distance plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
- BYD’s long-range PHEV, coming in 2025, will utilize next-generation technology featuring a more efficient engine, motor, and higher-capacity batteries compared to its current models.
- Geely’s upcoming PHEV will build upon the powertrain used in the Galaxy L6 sedan, with plans to extend its current 851-mile (1,370 km) CLTC range.
The plug-in hybrid segment has been getting a lot of attention recently. Evidence of how important the dual powertrain vehicles have become comes from China, where rivals BYD and Geely are racing to introduce one that goes 1,243 miles (2,000 km) before needing to be filled up or plugged in.
Both automakers recently promised the impressive ranges, though both are measuring that on the CLTC test cycle, which tends to be more generous than EPA ratings. Still, the number will no doubt draw headlines and propel drivers a long way between stops at a station, be they of the gas or charging variety.
Read: Renault And Geely Finalizing ICE And Hybrid Joint Venture This Month
Geely claims that its 1,243-mile (2,000 km) plug-in will build on existing technology, per Wards Auto. That tech will be based on the powertrain that is currently in use in the Galaxy L6.
The sedan combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine connected to a three-speed dual-hybrid transmission, with electric motors, and a 19.1 kWh lithium-ion battery back. The powertrain currently delivers 358 hp (267 kW / 363 PS), can go 78 miles (124 km) on battery power alone, and in combination with a 51-gallon (192-liter) fuel tank, has a total CLTC range of 851 miles (1,370 km).
Geely has not yet revealed how it will extend that range, but has said that the upcoming vehicle will achieve a fuel economy rating of 117.7 MPG (2.0 L/100 km). That suggests that it will lean more heavily on its batteries, since the Galaxy L6 can only achieve 51.7 MPG (4.5 L/100 km).
BYD also says that its long-range PHEV will build on its existing technology, and the new system will launch in 2025. Its current longest-range plug-in, the Song Plus DM-i, combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a CVT transmission.
The model has LFP batteries that provide up to 18.32 kWh of capacity and a 15.9-gallon (60 liter) gas tank. The Song Plus DM-i currently only has a CLTC range of 715 miles (1,151 km), but BYD says that its next-gen plug-in hybrid system will feature a more efficient engine and motor, as well as batteries capable of storing more energy.
The automaker says that the technology will help it reinforce its position as the world’s leading seller of electrified vehicles.
