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Chinese Automaker Chery Develops an Amphibious Hybrid SUV
The concept of vehicles being strictly confined to paved roads is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Chery, a globally recognized automotive conglomerate, is pushing the boundaries of modern engineering with a new vehicle capable of navigating across the surface of the water. While this amphibious capability sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, the manufacturer emphasizes that this feature is designed specifically for extreme emergency situations.
Traveling by Land and Water: The Jetour Ark Edition
Expanding its diverse lineup, Chery has introduced a highly innovative SUV: the Jetour G700 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Specifically, the “Ark Edition” of this model is engineered not just to survive deep water, but to actively float and move across it thanks to a set of built-in propellers.
To achieve this remarkable feat, the engineering team implemented a highly advanced gyroscopic stabilization system. This technology works in real-time to keep the heavy SUV balanced and upright while buoyant. During a recent demonstration of its capabilities, the vehicle successfully crossed the expansive Minjiang River in China from bank to bank in just ten minutes, proving its practical effectiveness in deep water.
Under the Hood: Impressive Power and Hybrid Efficiency
What powers a vehicle robust enough to transition from a highway cruiser to an emergency boat? The specifications of this Chinese amphibious SUV are nothing short of impressive:
- Powertrain: A 2.0-liter gasoline engine paired with two powerful electric motors.
- Total Output: A staggering combined output of 892 horsepower (HP).
- Hybrid Range: Up to 1,000 kilometers (approx. 620 miles) on a single tank and full charge.
- Electric-Only Range: Approximately 100 kilometers (approx. 62 miles), perfect for daily urban commuting.
The rapid evolution of alternative energy vehicles in Asia is setting new global benchmarks. Just as we have seen groundbreaking innovations when Exlantix unveils ES and ET models, Chery is demonstrating that performance and extreme utility can seamlessly coexist.
Range and Lightning-Fast Charging
Beyond its water-fording capabilities, the vehicle excels in everyday usability. Range anxiety is mitigated not only by the massive 1,000-kilometer total range but also by ultra-fast charging capabilities. When connected to a 170 kW fast charger, the SUV’s battery can be replenished from 20% to 80% in a mere ten minutes. This focus on battery efficiency mirrors other industry leaps, such as the advancements found in MG electric cars featuring semi-solid-state battery technology in the MG4 Urban and MG S9.
Emergency Use Only: Designed for Extreme Situations
It is important to note that this SUV is not meant to replace a recreational boat. Chery has explicitly stated that the floating mode is not intended for weekend leisure trips on the lake. Instead, the amphibious system was developed strictly as a life-saving feature for crisis scenarios, such as severe flash floods. The system is designed to activate and protect the occupants when the vehicle detects dangerously high water levels, allowing them to navigate to safety.
From Floating Cars to Flying Vehicles: What is Next?
The Asian automotive industry continues to surprise the world with rapid technological advancements. If an 892 HP floating SUV seems like the pinnacle of automotive imagination, industry leaders are already looking to the skies.
In late April, Brian Gu, the President of Xpeng, made headlines with a bold prediction regarding the future of mobility. He announced that the production of actual flying cars—a concept the manufacturer has been actively developing for several years—is slated to begin as early as 2027. Demonstrating massive consumer interest, Xpeng has already received over 7,000 pre-orders for these aerial vehicles. However, before mass production can officially commence, the company must finalize comprehensive aviation licenses and safety certifications from regulatory authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the Jetour Ark Edition be used as a regular boat for fishing or leisure?
No, the floating capability is explicitly designed for emergency situations, such as flash floods or natural disasters. It is meant to transport passengers to safety rather than serve as a recreational watercraft.
How does the vehicle propel and balance itself in the water?
The SUV utilizes integrated propellers for forward movement in the water, while an advanced gyroscopic stabilization system constantly adjusts the vehicle to ensure it stays upright and balanced against currents.
Is the 892 horsepower generated solely by electric motors?
No, the 892 HP is a combined output from a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 2.0-liter internal combustion engine working in tandem with two high-output electric motors.
Source: InsideEVs. Opening photo: JETOUR AUTO / YouTube, screenshot
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