Strategic Layout of New Energy Vehicles (NEV) Development
GWM has always insisted on “excessive investment" in research and development. In the most pivotal "three electricity" (batteries, motors and electric control) related technology for NEVs, GWM has already begun its layout. In addition, GWM has strengthened the research and development of new products, new energy and intelligent vehicles and the construction of the new technology center. A NEV trial-production laboratory has now been built.
R&D Direction and Products
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)
The technology-leading Pi4 platform can help realize three driving functions - FWD, RWD and 4WD depending on different product requirements, and it can be extended to a pure electric 4WD platform, 48V hybrid platform and other architectural modes. On this platform, luxury SUV brand - WEY VV7 PHEV and VV7 GT PHEV have been launched.
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
The products based on the ME platform exclusively for BEVs include A00 to A0 cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles. On this basis, ORA, the exclusive EV brand, is launched, and ORA iQ and R1 are released. These models feature lightweight and long endurance by virtue of the ME platform, the exclusive EV platform developed by GWM.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)
It is planned to exhibit the first platform-based FCEV model in 2020. The first fuel cell electric vehicles will be launched at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The hydrogen fuel cell models will be officially launched in 2025. In the future, new energy models will be included in the next-generation mainstream models of GWM four brands.
Global cooperation
On July 10, 2018, in the presence of Chinese and German government officials, a joint venture agreement was reached between GWM and BMW to establish “Spotlight Automotive” with a 50:50 shareholding ratio. Incorporating the technology, resources and management advantages of both parities, the joint venture will focus on new energy vehicles and aim at the global market.
