Still fresh to the South African market, Omoda and Jaecoo plan on bolstering their local lineup with the inclusion of the new C9 and J7 plug-in hybrid SUVs and the debut will see each be put to the test for efficiency. Fourteen vehicles (four C9s and ten J7s) will embark on a 1 100+ km journey between Cape Town and Gqeberha, aiming to complete the trip without any refuelling or recharging. All of this is in the interest of showcasing the efficiency and range of their hybrid powertrains.
Piloting the fourteen vehicles will be selected journalists and guests from around the world. Departing from Cape Town on the 22nd of February, the pre-planned route will take them through the Garden Route and Addo Elephant Park, with themed segments focusing on the region’s ocean, forests, and wildlife.
Soon to be on offer locally, the J7 PHEV combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a dedicated hybrid transmission, producing 255 kW and 525 N.m of torque. Its 18.3 kWh battery offers a 90 km electric-only range (WLTP) and contributes to a total range of 1 200 km which should mean it can handle the pending challenge without a hitch. If not, the Chinese automaker states charging can replenish the battery from 30-80% in 20 minutes.
The C9 PHEV serves as the performance flagship of the lineup and sees a similar hybrid setup but with three electric motors alongside its 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This results in a combined output of 440 kW and 915 N.m of torque, which can reportedly deliver brisk performance. The 150 km electric-only range (WLTP) contributes to a total range of 1 100 km, and fast charging takes 25 minutes (30-80%).
