by A New Contender for the Throne
For many years, Toyota has built the most advanced and economical hybrid powertrains. Now, one of the largest and most important Chinese automakers claims that its latest hybrid technology surpasses not only Toyota’s developments but is also better than the hybrids of any other Japanese automaker.
The Heart of the System
The new-generation i-HEV Intelligent Energy hybrid will debut for the first time in the new Emgrand sedan. The system is based on a small internal combustion engine with a thermal efficiency reaching 48.41 percent, making it one of the most efficient engines ever produced. This engine will be offered in 1.5-liter, 1.5-liter turbo-diesel, and 2.0-liter turbo-diesel configurations.
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Test Results
During recent tests of the new hybrid system, which also includes a 308 hp (230 kW) electric motor, the Emgrand sedan prototype showed an average consumption of only 2.22 liters per 100 km during testing around Hainan Island in China. Geely Group representative Victor Yang stated that this technology will comprehensively surpass the hybrid technologies of Japanese competitors.
A Direct Competitor to the Toyota Prius
How efficient the hybrid system will prove to be in the hands of ordinary consumers remains an open question. In 2024, Toyota tested the Prius on a route from Los Angeles to New York, and during the journey of over 4,500 km, the car showed an average consumption of 2.53 liters per 100 km.
Technological Features
According to Geely, their hybrid system uses a single centralized “brain” to manage interior and chassis functions, relying on artificial intelligence to optimize energy management. In addition to the new Emgrand, this hybrid system will be implemented in the Boyue L and Xingyue L models.
Future Plans
Geely’s investments in efficient new models with internal combustion engines are not limited to this hybrid system alone. During a special event dedicated to hybrids, Geely Chairman Li Shufu stated that the company is exploring the possibility of using methanol fuel in the future, noting that it has more than 10 times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries.
Geely’s claim of superiority over Japanese hybrids is a bold challenge that could signify the beginning of a new era in the global automotive industry. The success of this technology will depend not only on laboratory figures but also on real-world operation under various conditions and its durability. The emphasis on alternative fuels such as methanol also points to the company’s multi-vector strategy in the search for energy efficiency, which could offer consumers greater choice beyond traditional electric batteries. Competition in the market for economical powertrains is intensifying, and this could ultimately benefit buyers worldwide.
