Will Evoelectric start selling this JAC RF8 to compete with Denza, GAC and Toyota
Meet the latest product from JAC and its not a pickup truck. This is the JAC RF8 MPV and it is a large, mid-to-large size vehicle, measuring approximately 5,215mm long, 1,895mm wide, and 1,830mm tall, with a substantial 3,100mm wheelbase, offering generous interior space, flexible seating (often 7-seaters), and ample cargo room for its class. Immediate rivals are from China like the Great Wall Motor WEY G9 and the GAC M8.
The JAC RF8 MPV emphasises safety through its advanced PHEV battery design for structural stability, integrated intelligent driving/safety systems (Huawei/Zhiling), and features like Brake Assist & Traction Control, offering strong family protection with modern tech, though specific independent crash test ratings (like ANCAP/Euro NCAP) for the RF8 aren’t highlighted in these results, it’s positioned as a safe, technologically advanced people mover.
Key Safety Aspects:
- Uses large cylindrical batteries known for high safety and structural integrity in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version.
- Integrates advanced tech like Huawei’s systems (for the PHEV) and Zhiling cockpit (for fuel models)
- Brake Assist
- Traction Control
- Optional Blind Spot Monitoring (depending on trim)
- Rain-Sensing Wipers
- Designed for family comfort and protection, with features like multi-link independent rear suspension and good interior space.
- Equipped with child safety seat interfaces (ISOFIX) in the second and third rows.
The JAC RF8 MPV offers a comprehensive cabin entertainment experience centered around a large central infotainment screen, with some variants also providing an option for a second entertainment screen for rear passengers.
Key Entertainment Features
Central Infotainment Screen: The primary system in higher trims is a large, 15.6-inch Huawei 2K smart central control screen. It runs on Huawei’s HarmonyOS, which provides a smooth, user-friendly interface with a high screen-to-body ratio. Other variants may feature a dual 12.3-inch screen setup.
Rear Passenger Entertainment: Certain configurations allow for the installation of separate screens for rear occupants. The exact specifications of these optional screens are not detailed in the available information, but they provide dedicated media access for second-row passengers.
Audio System: The cabin features a 12-speaker audio system for an immersive sound experience.
Connectivity: The vehicle includes standard connectivity options such as Bluetooth, as well as modern features like 5G data network connectivity, allowing for streaming and high-speed internet access within the vehicle. The system is also compatible with mobile apps and voice commands.
The JAC RF8 MPV is built on the MUSE platform, which supports multiple powertrain options, including both plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) petrol versions.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Powertrain Details
The primary and most widely promoted version of the RF8 uses a plug-in hybrid system.
Engine: 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (1.5T).
Electric Motor: A permanent-magnet synchronous motor.
Transmission: A 3-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (3DHT).
System Output: Combined system power is approximately 416 hp, with a comprehensive torque of 745 Nm.
Battery: Features large cylindrical cells (often 44.55 kWh capacity in the long-range version) providing a substantial all-electric range.
Petrol (ICE) Powertrain Details
A conventional petrol-only version is also available in certain markets which is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine (2.0T) and this engine delivers a aximum power of 253 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
JAC RF8 MPV’s price varies by market and configuration, with Chinese showroom models starting around 169,900 yuan (about USD23,500 USD) for the hybrid.
