Looks like a PHEV from China has more to offer than a European Plug In Hybrid Vehicles
The most immediate sensation when starting a pure electric vehicle is exceptional quietness and instantaneous torque response. The linear power delivery of the electric motor makes acceleration smooth, and the single-speed transmission eliminates the gear-shift jerks of traditional petrol or diesel powered cars.
Meanwhile, hybrid cars offer a dual personality. With ample battery charge, they can deliver a driving experience close to that of a pure EV and their range is getting better and better.
However, when the battery is depleted, the internal combustion engine engages, introducing engine noise, some vibration and increase in fuel consumption.
Range anxiety and battery charging issues remains an unavoidable topic for increased electric vehicle adoption. Although most new 2026 models will exceed 500 km of range, real-world range is affected by temperature, driving habits and climate control use.
Well documented fact that countries with well-developed charging infrastructure, the convenience of pure electric vehicles is approaching that of petrol powered cars. But it is very rich countries like Norway, Sweden and Germany.
In countries where charging stations are not yet widespread, (ASEAN nations) the “refuel and go” advantage of modern hybrid cars is irreplaceable. This is also why right now more Chinese car manufacturers are launching hybrid and plug-in hybrid models when entering emerging markets. A good example is BYD.
BYD started as an electric ONLY car manufacturer and today they have an expanding range of hybrid cars and plug-in hybrid vehicles with impressive driving range on a full tank and battery charge.
When European car manufacturers ‘pushed’ the hybrid agenda years ago, it only captured the attention of a small segment of buyers in ASEAN. Yes, there were many models and in very different price ranges, but as the years progressed and their 4 and 5 year factory warranties ended, resale values fell, and fell hard.
Today, these luxury vehicles with petrol engines that work seamlessly with battery power have 15 to 25 percent of their showroom values (In Malaysia that translates to a loss of RM150,000 or more in 5 years).
Yes, their depreciation has been severe and even more surprising, many Malaysian car owners do not even KNOW about their existence.
Today, Chinese auto manufacturers with hybrid technology powertrains are getting the attention of the above mentioned Malaysians because of strong advertising and marketing efforts combined with great selling prices and longer factory warranties to encourage confidence. Imagine a warranty of 8 years, 9 years and even 10 years which is way past the vehicles financing period.
Fact. You can buy a large hybrid luxury MPV from GAC M8 at RM328k or the award winning GWM WEY at RM269k and both can deliver 1000km or so of driving range.
Then you have family SUVs like the Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV at RM129k or the Jaecoo J7 PHEV at RM158k that promise up to 1300km.
If you want a larger SUV, then there is the Omoda C9 PHEV which is priced at RM208k and delivers 1100km of combined driving range. If you budget a little tight and you need a spacious SUV for the family, Proton will sell you an e.MAS 7 PHEV which has a 996km driving range and is priced from just RM109k.
