Wuling Hongguang goes hybrid in China

The large and affordable Wuling Hongguang PEV is now available with an even cheaper range-extender hybrid powertrain (EREV).

It features a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 99 PS (98 hp / 74 kW) and 125 Nm (92 lb-ft) of torque as a generator. All propulsion is handled by a rear-axle electric motor rated at 102 PS (101 hp / 76 kW) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque.

With a small 8.5-kWh traction battery, the van cannot do more than 50 km (31 miles) in electric mode even by the forgiving Chinese standards. Firing up the range extender lets you cover 1,000 km (621 miles) from a full battery and tank.

The new Wuling Hongguang EREV starts from 68,800 Yuan, while its standard counterpart begins from 70,000.