by Floating SUV from Jetour
A few years ago, BYD’s YangWang division amazed the world by making its U8 SUV float on water like a pleasure boat. Now another Chinese brand, Jetour, has demonstrated that its new G700 can do the same, and perhaps even more impressively.
Technical features of the “Ark”
Jetour, one of Chery’s newer divisions, didn’t stop at just making the G700 float. The amphibious version, aptly named the Ark Edition, uses a modified powertrain that transforms the SUV into something closer to a boat than a conventional barge.
When the G700 enters the water, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a hybrid system and two electric motors stop turning the wheels, instead driving propellers. The system also includes an advanced gyroscopic stabilization system that ensures balance on the water. Last week, the vehicle was demonstrated crossing Lake Yanqi north of Beijing.
Purpose and impressions
Watching a large SUV cross a lake is truly an impressive sight, illustrating how far some Chinese brands are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. It is important to note that Jetour developed the G700’s ability to overcome water obstacles only for emergency situations, for example, for crossing floodwaters. However, we have no doubt that owners will take to the water just for fun.
Power and specifications
The Jetour G700 is approximately the same size as a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series and will be exported to global markets. The standard model produces an impressive 892 hp and 837 lb-ft (1135 Nm) of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. It is also impressively equipped with three differential locks, so it has all the necessary qualities for serious off-roading.
Battery and charging
Additionally, the G700 uses a large 31.4 kWh CATL battery, providing an electric-only range of up to 150 km. This battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in just 10 minutes.
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This news demonstrates how Chinese automakers continue to amaze the world with innovations, combining off-road qualities with amphibious capabilities. Although the technology is positioned as a safety measure in extreme situations, it opens up new horizons for the use of SUVs, potentially creating a new niche in the market. Impressive technical specifications, such as over 800 hp and fast charging, make the G700 not just an experiment, but a serious player in the premium SUV segment, capable of competing with recognized leaders such as the Land Cruiser. It remains to be seen whether this idea will find a mass buyer or remain an exotic choice for enthusiasts.
