China's New Generation of Plug-in Hybrid SUVs - GAC Guangyu Starship 7 Emerges With Unique Features
On November 8, the GAC Guangyu Starship 7 EM-i officially launched with a pre-sale campaign by GAC Motors, but its official starting price has not been announced yet.
Key Characteristics
Exterior Design
The Starship 7's exterior design is characterized by a closed front grille, which houses LED headlights that are divided into two units to provide better visibility. The front lights have a distinctive ring-like design with an upper section of an arc line and lower sections for near and far beam headlights. Side views showcase large multi-spoke wheels in conjunction with angular door handles, generating sporty vibes.
Interior Features
The interior highlights the latest trends by adopting a full-liquid crystal dashboard display and a large central screen, equipped with Flyme Auto smart cabin systems. Upholstery options range from woven fabric to wooden patterns, adding quality to its overall aesthetic. Other notable features include dual steering wheels and multi-functional buttons at both sides.
Performance
The Starship 7 will be powered by GAC Motors' latest Super E-Motion (EM-i) combined electric-motor hybrid technology with a mix of a 1.5-liter natural gasoline engine and two 150kW EMi electric motors in combination for improved performance efficiency and balance, which enhances the driving experience.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L inline-4 gasoline
- Pure Electric Clutch: Yes
- Power Output:
- Electricity-only Mode (100% e): up to 150 km of Range
- Fuel Range: approximately 1430 kilometers when the battery and tank are both full.
Competing Products
Given it's in a similar category, there are some key competitors that it stands head and shoulders against. The key competitors will include the following models:
- The Baidu SongPro DM-i with the same technological capabilities for plug-in-hybrid electric modes,
- The Byd Hai Ji Max DM-I,
- The Geely JE4 L6,
- The Chery Windy T6
Editor's Review
Lately, traditional car manufacturers have been increasingly focusing on expanding into the electric mix, with significant ambitions to match Baidu's DMi series of cars. It appears that GAC Motors also poured some considerable effort into bettering their overall efficiency with this model from its plug-in-hybrid technology family. It has already managed to secure an impressive pure electric driving distance compared over existing models in the same category that are part and parcel of it.
The introduction of this plug-in-hybrid car seems like a welcome respite for many families who find themselves at the helm of multiple vehicles due to work or school commitments, by allowing them the possibility to change up between hybrid drive and full-electric modes as situations demand.
In addition, its competitive pricing and added value from an already enhanced driving experience create valuable grounds for purchase decision-making processes that would otherwise rely heavily on a limited budget.
