Previewed: Wey 80 - Malaysia’s First PHEV MPV?

GWM Malaysia has brought the upcoming Wey 80 to the public eye once again, this time at a preview event held at Setia City Convention Centre from July 19 to 20.

The model on display is said to be the exact version that will go on sale locally, offering a close look at what Malaysians can expect from this premium plug-in hybrid MPV.

This latest showing offers clearer insight into the production-ready specifications, differing slightly from the earlier unit displayed at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2024 (KLIMS 2024). 

At KLIMS, the Wey 80 was previewed with a Hi4 plug-in hybrid setup comprising a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 156 HP and paired with dual electric motors for a combined output of 487 HP and 762 NM of torque. It also featured a 37.96-kWh ternary lithium battery, claimed to offer up to 140 KM of electric-only range.

In contrast, the latest version shown at Setia City details a slightly more grounded configuration. The Wey 80 now lists a total system output of 442 HP and 624 NM, paired to a DHT 4-speed automatic transmission with intelligent all-wheel drive.

The model supports multiple drive modes, including Electric Priority (engine only kicks in at high speeds), Intelligent Hybrid (engine engages during mid to high-speed driving), and Pure Electric mode for zero-emissions motoring.

While the electric-only range is rated slightly higher at 183 KM, the combined range remains at 1,000 KM, with 885 KM attributed to petrol operation and 183 KM to EV mode. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.2L/100 KM, with a 58-litre tank.

Inside, the Wey 80 doesn’t hold back on luxury. The cabin is fitted with three rows of fully electric NAPPA leather seats, with the second row being the star of the show. Marketed as “Zero Gravity Seats,” these are designed to provide ideal posture alignment for long-distance travel, with additional features like heating, ventilation, massage, a fold-out table, and a built-in mini refrigerator capable of chilling items for up to 24 hours at temperatures down to -15°C.

When it officially launches later this year, the Wey 80 could potentially become Malaysia’s first plug-in hybrid MPV, an important milestone, considering current rivals only offer ICE, hybrid (HEV), or full EV options. This potentially gives GWM a unique edge, striking a balance between performance, efficiency, and long-range usability.

The Wey 80 is set to be locally assembled (CKD) in Malaysia, with GWM’s local partner EPMB confirming plans to supply not only the domestic market but potentially the wider ASEAN region as well. Thailand has also previewed the model at the Thai Motor Expo 2024 (TME 2024), suggesting a regional rollout may be in the works.

With a luxurious interior, long EV range, versatile drive modes, and a powerful hybrid drivetrain, the Wey 80 is shaping up to be a compelling new entry in the premium MPV segment. The recent showcase marks another step toward its official Malaysian debut.