Sleek new plug-in hybrid vehicles come to town

BUCKLE up, Mzansi. The local automotive scene just got a significant jolt of electrified energy as the Omoda and Jaecoo brands officially unleash their latest plug-in hybrid contenders onto South African roads.

- COLIN WINDELL

Leading the charge are two distinct SUVs: the premium-focused Omoda C9 PHEV and the more accessible Jaecoo J7 SHS (Super Hybrid System), signalling a bold commitment to New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in our market.

Pivotal moment

For Omoda, the arrival of the C9 PHEV marks a pivotal moment. Positioned as their flagship luxury SUV, this plug-in hybrid aims to blend the serene efficiency of electric driving with the reassurance of petrol power and a hefty dose of premium appeal.

Hans Greyling, general manager for Omoda and Jaecoo South Africa, says: "The C9 PHEV represents a fresh chapter for efficient luxury motoring locally. It's crafted for drivers ready to embrace electric mobility but who equally demand performance, elegance, and safety. Think of it as having the best of both worlds - electric silence for the daily grind, petrol readiness for the open road."

Efficiency

Under the sculpted bonnet lies a high-efficiency electric motor working alongside a petrol engine and, together, they muster a substantial 440kW and 915 Nm of torque. Magic lies in its efficiency.

Drivers can tap into up to 150km of pure electric driving - ample for most daily commutes - before the petrol engine takes over. This dual approach yields a claimed combined range exceeding 1 100km, while official combined fuel consumption dips as low as 1.41/100km.