GWM pushes on into electrification

CHINESE MANUFACTURER GWM (also known as Great Wall and GWM Haval) has today made a significant announcement in regard to the electrification of its model range with the confirmation that the company will launch more than 50 New Energy Vehicles by 2025, a number of which are already in advanced stages of design and development or already on sale in the Chinese domestic market.

Speaking at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, Mr Harry Meng, GWM’s Head of European Markets, confirmed the company’s intention to become a leading global player in the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) space.

The Ora Cat shows how quickly Chinese car design is advancing (although the Tesla influence is clear)

Covering hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) and full EV, GWM’s future model line-up will be transformed and will position the brand at the forefront of the NEV revolution.

Mr Meng said “This year’s slogan ‘Revolution is On’ embodies much of what GWM also stands for: Premium vehicles that enable a new, self-determined lifestyle with intelligent technology.” (In the current environment, we’re not sure if talking about “revolution” is particularly sensitive of a Chinese manufacturer)

Further emphasizing GWM’s focus on sustainability, Mr Meng also stated “In 2023, we will complete our first zero-carbon emission factory. By 2025, we will launch more than 50 new energy models. Currently, we are already testing our first hydrogen vehicles, powered by fuel cells.”

“We are also supporting the use of renewable and clean energy wherever possible by introducing solar charging stations to the markets. In addition, we are reusing and recycling residual heat and energy and taking advantage of recycled water.”

“We are looking not only for economic benefits but also to make a sustainable future for our employees and customers. Because climate change is something we all must work to stop. Together.” said Mr Meng

Supporting these announcements, three new NEV products from GWM took centre stage in Paris.

The Next Ora Cat

Performance technology, elegant design and a high level of comfort coming together in a four-door all-electric coupe. With all-wheel drive and 19-inch tires and a maximum torque of 680 Newton meters, the Next Ora Cat will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. Range is 430km.

WEY Coffee 01 and WEY Coffee 02

In addition to showcasing its all-electric city cars, GWM is also displaying its latest premium SUV models, WEY Coffee 01 and Coffee 02.

The premium plug-in hybrid Coffee 01 is GWM’s flagship model and meets the highest global standards. “Smart Driving,” “Smart Cockpit,” and “Smart Device” are the underlying concepts that make WEY the pioneer of a new generation of intelligent vehicles. Pure electric range is up to 150km with zero to 100 km/h in five seconds and a maximum speed of 235km/h.

This is the Ora Cat interior (we weren’t supplied any images of the WEY Coffee)

Like the Coffee 01, the Coffee 02 model offers convenience and technology for the whole family. With the four cameras for a 360-degree all-round view, smart driving assistants and a 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen, it offers comfort and safety that meet even high demands. The transparent car floor is an absolute eyecatcher.

  • Key performance figures for the WEY Coffee 01:
    • Range, power: all-electric 146Km; 2.0-litre Miller engine 833km (150Kw, 320Nm); One electric motor each powers the front 110Kw, rear 135Kw; Total system torque 847Nm
    • Acceleration: 0-100kph in 5s
    • Pioneering technology: Unique P4 architecture allows on-demand AWD with a pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) driving experience thanks to a dedicated electric motor on the rear axle
    • Complete ecosystem: The WEY Coffee 01 offers users a complete ecosystem – all Coffee 01-related services will soon be available for order over the WEY app.
  • The WEY Coffee 02 is a more compact version of the WEY Coffee 01:
    • 4668mm (L), 1890mm (W), 1730mm (H)
    • Wheelbase: 2745mm
    • Drivetrain: Hybrid dual-clutch transmission available in FWD and AWD
    • Battery capacity: 36Kwh
    • E-range: up to 130Km