GWM Tank 500, Wey 80 previewed at KLIMS 2024

The Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024 has seen the unveiling of two new models from Great Wall Motor (GWM), namely the Tank 500 and the Wey 80.

According to GWM Malaysia, the SUV and MPV are set to be launched in the Malaysian market in 2025, although the exact date has not yet been disclosed.

Tank 500

Like the Tank 300, which was launched here last July, the Tank 500 is also an off-road SUV but it is a much larger one, measuring 5,078 mm in length, 1,934 mm in width, and 1,905 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.

In China, the Tank 500 is offered with several types of powertrains but the showcased unit is the hybrid variant featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 342 PS and 648 Nm of torque.

The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that drives the wheels through a four-wheel-drive system.

Available features include 11 driving modes, a tank turn function, Off-Road Cruise Control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as ADAS driver assistance systems.

While the price has not been announced, considering that the Tank 300 starts at RM250,000, the Tank 800 is likely to be priced around RM350,000.

Wey 80

Also known as the Gaoshan in China, the Wey 80 is a seven-seat MPV from GWM’s luxury sub-brand, Wey.

The model features a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which GWM calls as Dedicated Hybrid Technology (DHT). It combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with a pair of electric motors, generating a total system output of 487 PS (358 kW) and 762 Nm of torque.

Additionally, the powertrain comes with a 37.96 kWh battery, providing an electric driving range of up to 150 km based on the very optimistic CLTC cycle.

In terms of size, the Wey 80 measures 5,045 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,900 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,085 mm. It can accommodate up to seven passengers with a seating configuration of 2-2-3.

Key features include premium leather upholstery, Zero Gravity seats, captain’s chairs in the second row, a 12.5-litre fridge, a panoramic roof, and a Harman Kardon audio system with 16 speakers.

2024 Haval H6 HEV now in Malaysia, 243 PS/530 Nm, from RM139,800

Great Wall Motors Malaysia (GWM) Malaysia has officially launched the hybrid SUV model 2024 Haval H6 HEV today.

It is powered by a hybrid powertrain unit, consisting of a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine (150 PS/230 Nm) paired with an electric motor (177 PS/300 Nm), generating a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm.

The power is transmitted to the wheels through a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.

Only one variant is offered, namely the H6 HEV Ultra, equipped with features such as the ‘Star Matrix’ grille structure, LED matrix headlights, and glossy black 19-inch alloy wheels.

Meanwhile, the cabin boasts amenities such as dual-zone climate control, rear air conditioning vents, leather-wrapped seats, power tailgate, wireless device charging slot, panoramic sunroof, head-up display screen, and an audio system with eight speakers.

The cargo space measures 560 liters and can extend to a capacity of up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.


In terms of safety, the Haval H6 HEV comes with six airbags, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, and parking assistance system.

The selling price of the 2024 Haval H6 HEV starts from RM139,800, complete with a full vehicle warranty for seven years/200,000 km, a 10-year engine warranty or a limit of one million km, as well as an eight-year or one million km warranty for HEV components.

In addition to the offer of a free five-year service package and a RM3,000 discount for bookings made by October 20, 2024, existing GWM vehicle owners can also enjoy an additional rebate worth RM3,000.

3 things we don’t like about the Ora 07 Long Range – Test Drive

The electric sedan Ora 07, or also known as Ora Lightning Cat, may well be a unique EV package in the Malaysian market at this time.

It brings a package of aesthetics inspired by million-dollar models, while still being fairly affordable.

We’ve already shared a test drive review before, but in this article, we will discuss three things that are less favored in this model.

 

1. The ‘most red’ tail light housing

The exterior design of this Ora 07 is indeed feminine and looks simple, complete with an adaptive spoiler.

However, the less favored aspect is the entirely red tail light housing structure.

During daytime driving, other road users may find it difficult to guess whether the driver has already signaled to turn or is intending to enter an intersection using ‘niat’.

 

2. No analog meter theme options

We quite like the ‘cluster’ of Porsche 911-style meters present in the Ora 07’s cabin space.

It looks classic and modern at the same time.

However, its shortcoming is that it does not offer analog meter theme options to suit the masculine driving spirit of this Ora 07.

But honestly, the display of these meter graphics is much neater compared to other Chinese-made sedans in the market.

 

3. Easy but complicated-to-use convenience

As someone who doesn’t want driving focus disrupted on the road, the writer greatly appreciates the presence of a manual fan speed button in the center console for the air conditioning system.

This means it’s very easy to adjust the temperature and the speed of the cool air in the cabin.

However, that’s it.

Other functions such as the direction of the air need to be adjusted through a hidden menu on the infotainment screen, and there are no manual stalk available on the air vents!

You can read the full Ora 07 test drive report at the link below:

Ora 07 Long Range, feminine EV with masculine personality – Test Drive

 

Ora 07 Long Range, feminine EV with masculine personality – Test Drive

The first time this model stormed into memory was when attending the Auto Shanghai 2023 event last year.

Ora 07, or better known as Ora Lightning Cat in the international market, indeed brings a controversial design, reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera sedan and Porsche 911 models.

To place it on par with million-dollar models may be an unfair assessment.

Ora 07 is the second electric vehicle (EV) model introduced by GWM Malaysia after the cute Ora Good Cat hatchback, with a price offer below RM200,000 (RM169,800).

Compared to closest competitors like BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3, is the Ora 07 just an ordinary EV?

Based on a recent test drive experience, the definitive answer we can give is, “No!”

 

1. Feminine Design

BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3 present a more traditional sedan body design.

The Ora 07, on the other hand, is more reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera body, with a more tapered roof line, followed by a quite long body dimensions.

The rear also features an electrically powered adaptive spoiler that can be raised or lowered as needed, and the front lights, when viewed from any angle, resemble the 911.

Overall, this is not a negative aspect of the Ora 07. It is suitable for those with a feminine spirit and individuals looking for something different in the electric sedan segment.

However, the all-red rear light design may confuse road users and make it difficult to determine whether the signal is for turning or not.

 

2. Bugatti, Porsche Inspired Interior

Not content with just the exterior, the interior layout also draws much inspiration from famous models.

The high central console seems to take inspiration from Bugatti, while the front digital cluster screen clearly brings Porsche elements.

At the very least, the layout shown in this space is much better and more elegant compared to cars that simply place an iPad screen on the dashboard during development and then sell it to the public.

The writer particularly likes the design of the Ora 07’s digital cluster screen, it looks fresher.

However, the downside is that it does not come with theme options that match its round design. Moreover, there are no options for available analog meter graphics!

 

3. Easy to Operate, but Still Troublesome

One thing the writer appreciates about the Ora 07, apart from the support for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, is the presence of manual control buttons in the central area for the air conditioning system.

It offers controls for fan speed and cabin temperature. Easy to operate using muscle memory. However, that’s the only benefit provided.

There are no physical fan speed controls included on the air conditioning vent. This means that if you feel bothered by the cold air blowing into your nose, you will have to delve into additional menus for climate control on the infotainment screen.

Yes, the Ora 07 includes several types of air flow mode on the screen for use during the summer, but it’s not a feature that can make daily driving more pleasant.

Fortunately, the Ora 07 is equipped with an engaging 11-speaker Infinity audio system, so you can enjoy your favorite songs after fiddling with the climate control settings.

 

4. Comfortable Cabin, but…

The use of premium materials dominates the Ora 07’s cabin space. It looks luxurious.

The standard factory-installed sports seats also contribute to the comfort aspect, as do the quite cushy rear seats.

Apart from the long wheelbase, one thing that makes the space look more spacious is the fairly wide and elongated panoramic glass roof.

Because of this, rear passengers can enjoy more headroom. Just avoid long-distance travel for extended periods when the sun is directly overhead.

There are no switches available to open the glass panel structure, and no sunshades provided in that area to filter out the sunlight that can burn your hair.

 

5. Limited Cargo Space Access

This sedan offers a cargo space of 333 liters, sufficiently enough for daily use.

Although the Ora 07 comes standard with a fastback sedan body shape, it does not provide the ability to open the rear extensively like any other aeroback model.

The somewhat limited opening may make it difficult for you to load larger items.

Fortunately, the second-row seats can be folded, allowing you to place longer items in the rear.

Additionally, there are several small storage spaces available in the cabin, further enhancing the practical aspect of the Ora 07.

 

6. Masculine Driving Experience

As standard, the Ora 07 comes with a single powerful electric motor setting of 201 hp and 340 Nm that drives the front wheels.

The power is sufficient to propel the electric sedan in urban routes, with no issues of power shortage.

Aggressive acceleration can also be achieved in a manner that is quite smooth and seamless, without resulting in the usual power surge effect experienced in other electric cars.

What makes the writer excited about this electric sedan is the delightful driving experience package that is hard to find in any other electric car.

Despite featuring various feminine characteristics, the driving aspect of the Ora 07 is more masculine. It’s like a car with dual personalities.

For a moment, the writer completely forgot that the Ora 07 is a heavy electric sedan (2.5 tons) when testing its handling on winding roads.

The steering response is good enough to ensure the car stays on the right track, in addition to the chassis tuning and suspension system that make the driving experience of this electric sedan quite enjoyable on the winding roads of Negeri Sembilan.

Body roll is also felt at a minimum level, making the writer more enthusiastic to continue pressing the accelerator pedal every time a straight road is connected to a curve.

The use of Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 tires also helps the sedan grip well on the asphalt surface.

Adding vibrancy to the Ora 07’s driving experience is the simulated sound of a fake engine that can be activated through the infotainment screen.

At the very least, it can satisfy your longing for the sound of an engine, and the writer believes this feature is way much better than the spaceship-like sound found in more expensive EV models.

There are several driving modes included that can be accessed through the central manual button, including the Well Being mode, which will deactivate the regenerative braking function and allow the car to continue coasting when the foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.

Like an ICE car, isn’t it?

 

7. Concerns about Range Anxiety?

We tested the Long Range variant paired with an 83.5 kWh battery pack.

According to NEDC data, the sedan can travel up to 640 km on a full charge, a figure that may be challenging but not impossible to achieve.

Based on our usage, we managed to record a driving range of 470 km before the battery reached 15 percent state of charge (SoC), with an estimated remaining range of about 102 km.

In our opinion, the Ora 07 is suitable for use as a daily commuter car or occasionally for intercity travel beyond two stages.

DC charging up to 88 kW allows the battery to be charged to 80 percent in just half an hour, meaning you won’t have to wait long if you need to undertake a long journey in the Ora 07.

 

8. Safety

As standard, the Ora 07 comes with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) Level 2, which includes several key functions such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, smart lane keeping, and lane centering assistance.

The adaptive cruise control feature proves effective when on the highway to maintain a safe driving distance.

However, the way the lane centering assistance operates on the other hand may be perceived as slightly aggressive, especially for those who are confident in their driving skills.

 

Conclusion

With a starting price of RM169,800, this Ora 07 Long Range could be an alternative electric sedan that caters to the preferences of buyers who seek something different and want to stand out from the norm.

Although it has some shortcomings, all those issues may fade away when you are able to enjoy the very satisfying driving experience this sedan offers.

Don’t believe it? Even now, the writer still can’t believe it!

Specifications:

Electric Motor: Single, front-wheel drive
Power: 201 hp, 340 Nm
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds
Maximum Speed: 170 km/h
Battery: 83.5 kWh
Range: 640 km (NEDC data)

GWM wants you to put the Tank 300 to test at M4TREC this weekend

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has announced that it will organise an off-road test drive event on July 20 and 21, 2024, at M4TREC, a 4WD training and experience centre in Semenyih.

This event will provide an opportunity for the public to experience firsthand the capabilities and performance of the Tank 300 traversing through custom-made challenges and obstacles at M4TREC.

Additionally, participants will be given training from expert instructors on how to tackle any rugged terrain during their outdoor adventures.

There will be several obstacles at the experience centre, such as Log Bridge, Axle Twister, Ridge Crossing, Log Track, Hill Descent, Hill Climb and others.

Mike Cui An Qi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia says the company wants the public to experience the performance and capabilities of the Tank 300 in a variety of road conditions.

“To ensure this, we have arranged for experienced instructors to guide participants as they confidently take on the off-road challenges. This enables them to fully utilise the off-road intelligent features and conquer all terrains,” he added.

The Tank 300 was officially launched on July 12 with a starting price of RM250,000. Fully imported from China, the rugged SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine making 220 PS and 380 Nm.

To secure a spot for the off-road test drive experience, RSVP now at this link. All participants will receive an exclusive GWM merchandise.

GWM Tank 300 arrives Port Klang, set for July launch and delivery

The Great Wall Motor (GWM) Tank 300 sales unit has now arrived at Port Klang, perhaps some of you who have placed orders will be receiving your cars early?

These images have been released by GWM Malaysia. According to them, the Tank 300 SUV is set to be launched in the middle of this month with deliveries to follow shortly thereafter.

We have also gotten a closer look at the GWM Tank 300 in several preview sessions including at the recent Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

The GWM Tank 300 is an SUV with a rugged appearance, a premium interior cabin, and an estimated price of around RM250,000.

As stated previously, the GWM Tank 300 for the Malaysian market is likely to be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo petrol 4-cylinder engine with an output of 217hp and 380Nm of torque.

This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a part-time all-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4H, and 4L functions. This system also comes complete with front and rear differential locks.

Interesting enough, the GWM Tank 300 has a ‘tank turn’ feature. When activated, it locks the inner rear wheels to allow the SUV to make tight turns in narrow spaces. This movement is similar to tracked vehicles like tanks and excavators.

As seen, this SUV embodies a classic 4×4 look with a boxy design and thick side cladding. The front end features round LED headlights, while fog lights are integrated into the bumper.

At the rear, there is a spare tire mounted outside the side-hinged rear door, reminiscent of classic Jeeps. The Tank 300 comes equipped with 18-inch rims and Michelin Primacy SUV tires.

Inside, you’ll notice that the interior is quite premium, possibly inspired by the Mercedes G-Class. With a vertical dashboard, turbine air vents, a passenger-side grab handle, and a pair of 12.3-inch screens each.

According to GWM, the first 300 purchasers of this SUV will receive a complimentary five-year maintenance package OR 100,000km.

The initial owners will also receive a lifetime engine and gearbox warranty, without any mileage restrictions.

Get up close with GWM Tank 300 on the upcoming Malaysia Autoshow 2024

Great Wall Motor Malaysia has announced that GWM will debut their new SUV, the Tank 300, at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 next week. The GWM Tank 300 was previously showcased a few months ago, but its public debut will take place at the upcoming motor show.

Initially scheduled for release in the third quarter of this year, the latest development indicates an earlier launch in the second quarter. Therefore, it is not far away.

For the Malaysian market, the Tank 300 is expected to be offered in a non-hybrid variant, featuring a 2.0-liter turbo petrol 4-cylinder engine generating 217hp and 380Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a part-time all-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4H, and 4L functions. The system is also equipped with front and rear differential locks.

Notably, the GWM Tank 300 features a ‘tank turn’ function. When activated, it locks the inner rear tires to enable the SUV to make tight turns in confined spaces. This maneuver is reminiscent of tracked vehicles such as tanks and excavators.

As can be seen, the SUV presents a classic 4×4 appearance with a boxy design and thick side cladding. Its front end boasts round LED headlights, while fog lights are integrated into the bumper.

At the rear, there’s a spare tire mounted on the outside of the swinging door, reminiscent of classic Jeeps. The Tank 300 comes with 18-inch rims and Michelin Primacy SUV tires.

Internally, you’ll notice that the interior exudes a premium feel, possibly inspired by the Mercedes G-Class. With a vertical dashboard, turbine air vents, front passenger grab handle, and a pair of 12.3-inch screens each.

The center console of the Tank 300 houses a slightly angular-shaped gear lever with control buttons for the drive system, electronic parking brake, and driver assistance system. Other features include automatic air conditioning, power seats, leather upholstery, Harman Infinity audio system, power sunroof, wireless charging pad, and paddle shifters.

The GWM Tank 300 also comes equipped with active safety systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

Furthermore, Great Wall Motor Malaysia will also showcase another upcoming SUV, the Haval H6 HEV. These models can be viewed at Hall A, MAEPS, Serdang during the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, running from 22nd to 26th May.

GMW Tank 300 in Malaysia – Rugged styling, tank turn function, launch Q3 2024

DURING the Ora 07 preview last month, GWM Malaysia made a surprise reveal by showcasing the Tank 300, scheduled to be launched around the third quarter of this year.

The GWM Tank 300 is an SUV with a rugged appearance and a premium interior cabin, but with the unique ability to perform a ‘tank turn’.

The specific variant to be launched in Malaysia is not confirmed yet, but it is believed that the preview unit is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo petrol 4-cylinder engine with an output of 217hp and 380Nm of torque.

This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a part-time all-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4H, and 4L modes. The system is also equipped with front and rear differential locks.

Notably, the GWM Tank 300 features a ‘tank turn’ function. When activated, it locks the inner rear tires to enable the SUV to make tight turns in confined areas. This movement is similar to that of tracked vehicles such as tanks and excavators.

Visually, the SUV presents a classic 4×4 appearance with a boxy design and thick side cladding. The front end boasts round LED headlights with integrated fog lights in the bumper.

At the rear, there is an externally mounted spare tire door that opens to the side, reminiscent of classic Jeeps. The Tank 300 comes equipped with 18-inch rims and Michelin Primacy SUV tires.

Inside, you’ll notice that the interior is quite premium, possibly inspired by the Mercedes G-Class. With an upright dashboard, turbine air vents, a passenger-side grab handle, and a pair of 12.3-inch screens each, the interior exudes a premium feel.

The center console of the Tank 300 features slightly angular gear buttons, control buttons for the drive system, electronic parking brake, and driver assistance system.

Other features include automatic air conditioning, power seats, leather upholstery, Harman Infinity audio system, power sunroof, wireless charging pad, and paddle shifters.

The GWM Tank 300 also comes equipped with active safety systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

What are your thoughts on this rugged SUV with unique capabilities? What price range do you estimate it will fall into upon its launch?

GWM Ora 07 previewed in Malaysia – Two variants, up to 408PS, 640km range

After opening its bookings a few days ago, Great Wall Motor Malaysia (GWM Malaysia) presented the Ora 07 to the media practitioners today.

This four-door electric sedan coupe (EV) is offered in two variants for Malaysia – Long Range and Performance. Both models come equipped with an 83.499kWh battery pack.

The Long Range variant features a single front-mounted electric motor delivering 204PS/340Nm of power and a driving range of up to 640km.

On the other hand, the Ora 07 is equipped with two electric motors, providing a total output of 408PS and 680Nm of torque. It offers a slightly lower driving range of 550km, but can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds with this variant. The GWM Ora 07 has an 11kW AC charging capacity, while the rapid DC charging is at 88kW.

GWM Malaysia did not disclose any details regarding the charging time, but their representative informed us that 10 to 80 percent charging can be achieved in less than an hour.

Beyond the numbers, what about the appearance of the GWM Ora 07? Standard features include smart LED lights, frameless windows, panoramic glass roof, and an adaptive rear spoiler.

Its cabin is designed with a T-shaped center console, front seats with massage function, and two large screens for the instrument panel and infotainment, each measuring 10.25 inches and 12.3 inches, respectively.

Safety features available on the Ora 07 include Lane Departure System, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Detection, as well as features like a 360-degree camera, Intelligent Evasion, Traffic Sign Recognition, Cruise Speed Limit, and more.

The GWM Ora 07 is offered in three color options: Crystal Purple, Amethyst Gray, and Jade White. What do you think of this latest EV sedan coupe in the Malaysian market? Can it compete with the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal?

GWM Ora 07 to launch in Malaysia in Q1 2024

ON January 18, Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia uploaded a teaser image of the Ora 07, indicating the imminent arrival of the model.

Now, the company has officially confirmed that the Ora 07 will be launched in Malaysia in the first quarter of this year.

Not only that, initial specifications of the fully electric fastback sedan have also been revealed. It will be offered in two configurations: a single electric motor offering a range of 640 km and a dual electric motor with a range of 550 km.

Notably, the driving range figures for both configurations mirror that of the Thai-spec Ora 07, which was launched in the country back in December.

There, the Long Range variant features a single electric motor on the front axle making 204 PS/340 Nm, allowing it to accelerate up to 170 km/h. A 83.5 kWh battery provides a range of up to 640 km.

The second variant, called Performance, is equipped with a pair of electric motors producing a total power of 408 PS/680 Nm. It has the same battery but a shorter driving range of 550 km.

Additionally, the Ora 07 for the Malaysian market will also come with an adaptive electric spoiler and a frameless door design.