The Shanghai Auto Show featured Great Wall Motor’s new bi-turbo V8 engine, boasting a hot-vee configuration and connected to an all-wheel drive transmission
While major automakers like Ford, Stellantis, Mercedes, and Ferrari have been reducing their V8 engine offerings, surprisingly, Chinese manufacturer Great Wall Motor (GWM) is stepping in to fill the void.
Despite China’s leadership in EV technology, GWM showcased a new bi-turbo V8 at the Shanghai Auto Show, signaling their continued belief in large internal combustion engines. This move, from the same company that previously put an 8-cylinder engine in a motorcycle, aims to challenge Western luxury brands.
The all-aluminum, DOHC, hot-vee V8, with its compact turbo placement for reduced lag, has a 4.0-liter capacity but undisclosed power figures. GWM executives indicated it’s designed for plug-in hybrid systems, where the V8 might primarily assist during towing or high-power demands.
For V8 enthusiasts, it appears these hybrid systems will prioritize electric power for everyday driving, with the V8 primarily engaging during towing or when significant acceleration is needed. It’s hoped there will be driving modes that allow for enjoying the V8 sound and power more frequently.
This engine is slated for GWM’s new luxury brand, Confidence, and some of its Tank SUVs. This isn’t GWM’s first eight-cylinder surprise, as they previously unveiled a flat-eight motorcycle engine.
