Chery's new hybrid tech to blow Toyota away

The 2027 Omoda 7 will debut Chery's new hybrid system, which brings a 5kWh battery to a plugless hybrid set-up.. The new system's battery is much larger than standard hybrid batteries - usually sized around 1-2kWh - found in vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4.. The Omoda 7 is already on sale in some markets, including the UK, where it's available as a petrol-only model or as a plug-in hybrid (called SHS-P)..

It's on its way to Australia in 2027, though timing, specifications and pricing are all yet to be confirmed.. Both the Omoda 7 and the Omoda 4 small SUV have been displayed locally at the Everything Electric event in Sydney during October this year.. Both are present on the Omoda/Jaecoo Australia website for potential customers to register interest..

While the system is still being developed, media were allowed a brief steer in the Omoda 7 during the recent User Summit in Wuhu, with CarsGuide getting some time behind the wheel.. Engineers and product staffers on-hand weren't able to confirm specifications or details for the most part, but the front-wheel drive mid-size SUV uses a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor, making around 105kW and 160kW respectively.. Total outputs aren't specified, but Omoda representatives provided an estimate of around 20km of electric driving in the right conditions if the 5kWh battery was to be fully charged..

Of course, this would require engine charging and plenty of regenerative braking, but the advantage according to engineers is that you're less likely to hit 'empty' when it comes to the battery.  Another advantage is an estimated fuel consumption figure in the mid-high 'fours', between 4.5 and 4.9L/100km of driving.. Finally, the larger battery will allow some low-intensity V2L (vehicle-to-load) use - 2.2kW at this stage.. Smaller appliances will be able to be plugged in and run on the car's stored battery power..

The 2026 Omoda X concept, a rugged-looking SUV that seems intent on rivalling the likes of the Toyota RAV4 Edge, is also set to run on the new 5kWh system.. While the Omoda 7 follows the brand's current design language, the combination of the Omoda X's new styling and the new hybrid tech could prove a step forward for the brand.. An 1800kg braked towing capacity and 75kg capacity weight for the roof, as well as the V2L capability, may prove a useful combination for a buyer looking to electrify without the fear of range anxiety or the need for a plug..