Chinese automaker Geely Automobile Holdings revealed its latest hybrid technology, Leishen EM-i, on Wednesday, a move aimed at challenging...
Chinese automaker Geely Automobile Holdings revealed its latest hybrid technology, Leishen EM-i, on Wednesday, a move aimed at challenging the dominance of plug-in hybrid leader BYD in China’s highly competitive automotive landscape. The new technology promises superior fuel economy and an extended driving range, signaling Geely’s ambition to close the gap with BYD as both companies vie for the top position in the world’s largest automotive market.
Leishen EM-i Technology: Efficiency and Range Highlights
Geely’s Leishen EM-i hybrid system boasts impressive fuel efficiency, reportedly consuming just 2.62 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers (62.1 miles). This gives the Leishen system a combined range of 2,390.5 km when running on both gasoline and battery power. In comparison, BYD’s latest hybrid system, launched earlier this year, claims a fuel consumption rate of 2.9 liters per 100 km and a total driving range of 2,100 km.
The first model equipped with this new hybrid technology, the Galaxy Starship 7 crossover, has also delivered notable performance in real-world testing, achieving a fuel consumption rate of 3 liters per 100 km. With the launch of the Galaxy Starship 7, Geely aims to cater to drivers who seek efficient fuel consumption and extended range, which are crucial factors for those driving long distances in both urban and rural areas.
Expanding Leishen Hybrid Across Brands: Partnerships with Renault, Volvo, and Lotus
Geely has broader ambitions for its Leishen hybrid technology, with plans to integrate it across multiple brands in its portfolio, including Renault, Volvo, and Lotus. By embedding this new system into diverse brands, Geely aims to reach a wider customer base and reinforce its position in the global hybrid market. Collaborations with European brands like Renault and Volvo are expected to amplify Geely’s international footprint and appeal to customers seeking eco-friendly yet high-performance vehicles.
Geely’s Strategy Amidst a Challenging Market
Geely’s unveiling of the Leishen technology comes amid intense competition in China’s auto market, where slowing economic growth has impacted EV sales. Geely, currently ranked second in China’s electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle (NEV) sector with a market share of 7.4%, faces a significant gap behind BYD, which leads with a 34.6% market share. Tesla holds the third spot with a 6.5% share. As growth in pure electric vehicles softens, the demand for hybrid vehicles—offering both electric and gasoline options—has risen, making hybrid technology a key battleground for automakers.
BYD’s recent success underscores the appeal of hybrid technology in China. In Q3 2024, BYD broke its quarterly sales record, driven by a remarkable 76% increase in plug-in hybrid sales, totaling 685,830 vehicles. This surge highlights the growing consumer preference for hybrids that combine the benefits of electric and gasoline powertrains, offering versatility and peace of mind in terms of range.
BYD vs. Geely: A Technological Race for the Future of Hybrids
BYD’s dominance in the Chinese market, backed by its reputation for reliable hybrid systems, has set a high bar for competitors like Geely. However, with the Leishen EM-i, Geely aims to provide an alternative that emphasizes efficiency and extended range. The new hybrid system represents Geely’s strategic focus on developing cutting-edge, fuel-efficient technology that appeals to a cost-conscious market while adhering to China’s sustainability goals.
As China’s economic uncertainties put pressure on electric vehicle growth, the hybrid market presents a stable alternative that appeals to both urban and rural drivers. Geely’s push to integrate the Leishen technology into models under well-known international brands like Volvo and Renault further supports its ambitions to elevate its market standing both domestically and abroad.
Future Prospects for Geely and BYD in the Hybrid Segment
The introduction of Geely’s Leishen EM-i technology marks a significant milestone in the race to build better hybrid vehicles. By focusing on fuel efficiency and expanding the use of its hybrid system across multiple brands, Geely has positioned itself to compete more effectively with BYD. However, with BYD’s established market dominance and recent record-breaking sales, Geely faces the challenge of differentiating itself and capturing a larger market share.
Looking ahead, Geely’s ability to scale the production of its hybrid technology, combined with continued improvements in efficiency and range, will be crucial as it seeks to gain a competitive edge. As competition in the hybrid segment intensifies, consumer demand, economic conditions, and regulatory factors will shape the trajectory of both companies as they innovate to lead the next generation of eco-friendly vehicles in China and beyond.
No comments