Chinese automaker GWM showed the in-house-developed 4-liter V8 in the US at CES 2026. This ICE could be integrated into PHEV systems. GWM plans to use the new engine on flagship models as it goes against the grain in China.
China is the biggest new energy vehicle (BEV + PHEV) manufacturer in the world, with over half of domestic sales occupied by eco-friendly cars. The vast majority of local automakers are moving towards battery electric cars and plug-in hybrids with small engines.
However, Great Wall Motor (GWM) chose another way. It lags behind other automakers in terms of the NEV market share (with new energy cars accounting for 30.49% of sales in 2025). This company focuses more on the development of large petrol and diesel-powered engines. On January 6, GWM presented the self-developed four-liter V8 at CES 2026.
More about the GWM’s V8
The V8 engine from Great Wall Motor integrates Miller cycle technology, a twin-turbo system with a front-mounted water-cooled intercooler, and interconnected post-boost piping. It adopts the front-end layout with an optional viscous fan.
Other features are a dual-injection system with 350-bar direct injection & 5.5-bar port injection, and a variable-displacement oil pump. A dual injection system allows varying engine loads for optimal performance while preventing carbon buildup.
This V8 engine is paired with a GWM-developed 9-speed automatic gearbox with a torque inverter. An electric motor could be placed between the ICE and transmission to boost the performance of the powertrain while reducing emissions.
Exact specs of the GWM’s V8 engine have yet to be disclosed. However, this ICE was previously shown at the Shanghai Auto Show in April 2025. It was said to have an output of around 500 hp. GWM Chairman Wei Jianjun (Jack Wei) highlighted that this engine will be used as a part of the high-performance powertrain of the company’s flagship off-roaders and sports cars.
The long-anticipated Tank 800 body-on-frame SUV could become the first car with the GWM-developed V8 on board. Later, the company’s first sports car would also adopt this engine. Moreover, GWM also explores the possibility of creating a vintage car inspired by the Packard Super 8 One-Eighty.
The demonstration of the new engine in the United States, known for its love towards V8, hints at GWM’s confidence in its product. Aside from this, Great Wall Motor showed the Hi4-Z plug-in hybrid platform, liquid-solid batteries, the Souo S2000 CL motorcycle, the Wey 07 (Lanshan) crossover, the Wey G9 (Gaoshan 9) minivan, and the Tank 500 off-roader at CES 2026.
