Tank 500 Hi4-Z hybrid goes on sale

Compared to the Hi4-T model that’s already around, the new Tank 500 Hi4-Z offers more power from a hybrid drivetrain, more range and no fiddly mechanical AWD. Prices start from 363,800 Yuan for the only trim available so far.

The new Hi4-Z uses three motors for propulsion. A new 2.0-liter internal combustion engine drives the front wheels with 245 PS (242 hp / 180 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. An electric motor assists it with 292 PS (288 hp / 215 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of its own. Another e-motor sits at the rear axle and supplies 326 PS (322 hp / 240 kW) along with 415 Nm (306 lb-ft).

The combined output is capped at 863 PS (850 hp / 635 kW) and 1,195 Nm (881 lb-ft). It allows the bulky SUV to go from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds.

No mechanical AWD system means there is more free space between the axles, and the new Tank 500 dedicates that space to a larger-than-usual 59-kWh battery pack. It has a solid WLTC range rating of 201 km (125 miles) in all-electric mode, and goes up to 1,096 km (681 miles) in hybrid mode. Charging from 30 to 80 percent only takes 15 minutes.

Design-wise, the new version looks like any other Tank 500 with one exception – you can order it in a red-white gradient as seen here. It costs the same as any color option, by the way. Seats with massage and ventilation, Nappa leather trim and a 14.6-inch infotainment display are included as standard.