Chinese automakers, who have already conquered the market of affordable models, are now turning their attention to sports and supercars. BYD offers the innovative Yangwang U9 electric car, GAC has released the Aion Hypert SSR, and now GWM is also preparing to enter this prestigious market.
Great Wall Motor has significantly expanded its model range in recent years, but so far has specialized in crossovers, off-road vehicles, and pickups. However, the manufacturer announced that it has been developing a supercar for the last five years, which, in their opinion, will be able to compete even with the powerful Ferrari SF90 Stradale.
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GWM’s CFO Wu Huixiao spoke about these plans during a conversation with an auto blogger on social media. She confirmed that the new model will receive a lightweight carbon monocoque construction but noted that technical difficulties have led to delays in development.
According to company representatives, European specialists from race tracks are involved in the work on the car. When asked about the comparison with Ferrari, Wu Huixiao stated that GWM’s first supercar will surpass the Italian competitor, considering the experience of other manufacturers. Recently, the company’s chairman, Jack Wey, was spotted behind the wheel of an SF90, indicating the brand’s serious intentions to compete with legendary Italian marques.
One of the key goals of the project is to reduce the cost. As Wu Huixiao pointed out, it was the desire to make the car more affordable for consumers that caused the lengthy development.
Details about the powertrain remain unknown. At the Shanghai Auto Show, GWM presented a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with a hybrid system, but this engine was developed primarily for off-road vehicles and trucks, so its use in a supercar is questionable.