Could the Geely Monjaro i-HEV work in our market?

It seems like traditional hybrids or self-charging hybrids are starting to be the new trend in China, as more automakers are starting to release these alternative models into their market. Geely is one of them, having debuted its i-HEV hybrid powertrain, which is a more traditional take on its electrified powertrains.

The i-HEV powertrain mates a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with a power output of 161 horsepower to two electric motors—one at the crankshaft, one at the wheels, which produce around 230kW or 312 horsepower.

With a significantly smaller battery size and a very high engine thermal efficiency of 48.4%, the Monjaro i-HEV should be able to run on full electric power at speeds of up to 66kph, and a promised fuel efficiency of up to 21km/L.

Otherwise, the Monjaro i-HEV still looks very similar to how the standard model looks, with a large chrome front “waterfall” grille, aggressive front bumper, the large taillight light bar assembly, and, at least exclusive to this model, aerodynamic wheels.

The five-seater cabin is also full of luxuries, with a three-screen layout (two 14.6-inch screens and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster), a head-up display, full power front seats with climate control and massaging, the Flyme Auto sound system, and a full G-Pilot H3 advanced driver assistance system that’s capable of driving itself on highways, at least in China.

Seeing as the i-HEV tech was just introduced, it will probably take a while before Geely introduces it to other markets, but would you want a self-charging hybrid vehicle from a Chinese brand instead of the usual plug-in or range-extended affair, considering how our charging station infrastructure is still growing?

^{Photos by Sam Surla}