Imagine driving from Sydney to Melbourne and back without stopping for fuel or a charge—a dream for many, but soon a reality for Chery’s next-generation SUVs. But here’s where it gets controversial: Chinese automaker Chery claims its upcoming Super Hybrid models will achieve a staggering 2000km range on a single tank of petrol and a full battery charge. Is this too good to be true, or the future of long-distance travel? Let’s dive in.
Chery, a giant in the Chinese automotive industry, has chosen Australia as the stage to unveil its sixth-generation hybrid technology. Slated for global rollout in late 2026 or early 2027, this innovation promises not just lower fuel consumption but also a significant power boost. The star of the show? A targeted 2000km driving range—a massive leap from the current 1200km offered by Chery’s most advanced hybrids in Australia. If this holds up in real-world conditions, it would make Chery’s SUVs the longest-range vehicles available Down Under, redefining road trips as we know them.
And this is the part most people miss: The new hybrid system isn’t just about range. It’s part of a broader upgrade strategy, including model facelifts and powertrain enhancements. Peter Matkin, Chery’s executive director of engineering for international programs, confirmed this in an interview with Drive. While specifics on which models will debut the technology are still under wraps, SUVs like the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 are likely candidates, given their recent updates in 2020 and 2018, respectively.
Chery is developing two versions of its Super Hybrid system to cater to different vehicle sizes. The 'DHT160' system, designed for SUVs weighing 1500kg to 2000kg (think mid-size Tiggo 8), will deliver 160kW and 275Nm—a bump from the current 150kW. For larger SUVs over two tonnes, like a potential Tiggo 9, the 'DHT230' version will pack a punch with 260kW and 330Nm. Both systems feature a revolutionary '16 in one' motor design, reducing weight and volume by 30% while improving cooling efficiency by 40% during towing.
Here’s the kicker: These hybrids will pair with a new 18.46kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, touted for its durability, waterproofing, and puncture resistance. While slightly larger than the Tiggo 7’s current pack, it’s smaller than the Tiggo 9’s 34kWh unit—but expect bigger batteries for larger models in the future.
Chery claims a modest 3% improvement in fuel economy, but the real focus is that 2000km range. On paper, it’s enough to drive Sydney-Melbourne round trip or from Melbourne to Brisbane without stopping. For context, the current Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid boasts a 1200km range in NEDC testing and 1.4L/100km fuel consumption in lab tests—though real-world figures often differ.
Controversial question: Can Chery’s lab claims translate to real-world performance? Australia’s current non-plug-in hybrid range champion, the Toyota LandCruiser 78 Series Troop Carrier, manages 1875km on a 180-litre tank. If Chery delivers, it could dethrone even this legend—but only time will tell.
Local arrival dates for these SUVs remain unconfirmed, but one thing’s certain: Chery is setting ambitious goals. Whether they’ll revolutionize long-distance driving or face skepticism, the automotive world is watching. What do you think? Is Chery’s 2000km claim a game-changer or a stretch? Let us know in the comments!
