Geely is getting ready to launch the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition sedan with plug-in hybrid powertrain. It will be able to run up to 100 km on a single battery charge. Moreover, it will support DC fast charging. The Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition will hit the market this month, aiming mainly at taxi services.
We will remind you that Geely had some reputation problems after the launch of the previous version of the Geely Emgrand L Hi-P. According to various taxi drivers, this vehicle couldn’t actually run up to 100 km on a single charge. Moreover, its fuel consumption was much higher than the estimated number of 3.8 L/100km. As a result, Geely silently suspended the production of the previous model and started to make a better one.
All you should know about Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition
First, let’s talk about the name of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition. In fact, after the market launch, it will be the only Emgrand L on sale. But why did Geely add the Champion Edition name to the Emgrand L Hi-P? It is curious that they have followed the naming of the BYD Champion Edition models. So, it looks like Geely wants to underline that its PHEV technology is ready to rival the best-selling BYD products.
Speaking about the exterior design of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition, it was unveiled in teaser images. But previously, the Chinese Government also exposed the exterior design and specs. The Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition got a new front end design with a closed grille. In contrast, the previous model had a large X-shaped grille. It seems like this grille will be able to reduce drag and, as a result, increase the pure-electric range. Moreover, there are some minor exterior adjustments, like exhaust pipes.
Speaking about the technical part of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition, it stands on the BMA architecture that underpins quite a lot of Geely models. Its dimensions are 4735/1815/1495 mm with a wheelbase of 2700 mm. The powertrain of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition comprises a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol-powered ICE for 181 hp. It is paired with a 136-hp electric motor. They are joined by the DHT Pro 3-speed hybrid transmission. Its total power output reaches 246 horses and 610 Nm. The electric range of the Emgrand Hi-P Champion Edition reaches 100 km. As for the mixed range, it is 1300 km.
Editor’s comment
According to the latest information, the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition will hit the Chinese market this month. Its price range will be about of 130,000 – 170,000 yuan (18,100 – 23,700 USD). In comparison, the BYD Qin Plus DM-i Champion Edition sedan costs 125,800 – 145,800 yuan (17,550 – 20,340 USD). So, it is noticeably cheaper than the Geely’s sedan. Moreover, it is a bit bigger than the Emgrand L. It seems like Geely also will need to cut price of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition.
Update (13.07.2023)
Geely has officially unveiled the price range of the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition. It has appeared to be significantly cheaper than we thought before. Its starting price is 109,800 yuan (15,300 USD). As for the second trim-level, it costs 122,800 yuan (17,150 USD). So, it has appeared to be cheaper than the BYD Qin Plus DM-i Champion Edition. It means that the Emgrand L Hi-P Champion Edition has all the chances to compete with BYD.
Source: Geely
