Geely Auto Group has unveiled its i-HEV intelligent hybrid system, which pairs AI-controlled energy management with up to 230 kW of electric drive. The system challenges the full hybrid segment long dominated by Toyota.
An Emgrand i-HEV equipped with the technology achieved 2.22 L/100 km in a test recognized by Guinness World Records. Geely reports the engine converts a peak 48.41% of its fuel's energy into useful work, which it claims is the best figure among mass-produced engines.
The system uses independent P1 and P3 motors paired with an engine, allowing each power source to operate separately. Electric power leads when conditions permit. On the worldwide harmonised light vehicles test cycle, electric drive covers over 80% of driving time. The car runs without the engine at speeds up to 66 km/h, and power responds within 10 milliseconds of demand.
AI software distributes load between engine and motors based on road conditions, improving overall energy use by more than 10%. A patented redundancy layout keeps all three power sources independent, so the vehicle continues moving if one fails.
The Xingyue L, Boyue L, and Preface L Plus already use the system. The forthcoming Xingyue L Plus will debut a 2.0TD version combining a 160 kW engine with a 230 kW P3 motor. Geely plans a phased global rollout targeting buyers in markets with limited charging infrastructure who want lower fuel costs without plugging in a battery.