The objective of the Sepang Driving Experience was to better understand the handling improvements on the Tiggo hybrid models
Chery Auto Malaysia working with their engineers in China looked at improving the handling in its recently launched (Local Assembled) Super Hybrid (CSH) models to accommodate the driving needs of Malaysian and ASEAN driving conditions.
Yes, ASEAN nations have some questionable road conditions and there was a need to address this as Chery embarks on its ASEAN sales push.
The Malaysians media and TikTok reviewers who were invited to the Sepang Driving Experience Centre last week noted that these hybrid models delivered a more comfortable and composed ride, even while handling bumps, tight corners and road imperfections on this purpose designed course.
The larger Tiggo 7 PHEV and the Tiggo 8 PHEV felt more confident over its petrol powered earlier launched siblings.
Looks like, by integrating the hybrid system into both these SUVs, it enhanced drivability, making them feel more agile and responsive.
The dual-motor setup allows for a seamless, powerful, and smooth performance, improving the driving experience over traditional hybrids by offering stronger acceleration from the petrol engine when needed and near-silent EV-like running during cruising.
Improved handling and performance
The hybrid system, including the Stepless Super Electric Hybrid Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), allows for smooth and responsive power delivery, improving the overall drivability of the vehicles.
The combination of electric and petrol power provides instant torque and stronger acceleration. When more power is needed, the petrol engine boosts the motor, and when cruising, the car settles into a smooth, quiet, EV-like operation.
The smaller Tiggo 7 PHEV was noted to feel more agile and eager when cornering, while the larger 7 seater Tiggo 8 PHEV, despite its weight, handled with confidence.
The hybrid system’s linear response helps the SUVs feel more capable, particularly when it comes to overall drivability
Recent circuit testing of the Tiggo 7 PHEV and Tiggo 8 PHEV revealed a highly effective Electronic Stability Program (ESP). When subjected to a deliberate skid, the system intervened quickly and transparently to help the driver regain control, inspiring confidence in slippery conditions.
Reviewers noted that despite the added weight of the hybrid system, models like the Tiggo 8 PHEV carry themselves with confidence, while the smaller Tiggo 7 PHEV feels more agile. Chery’s engineers have worked to ensure that the suspension is well-tuned to balance the vehicle’s new weight characteristics.
The Super Hybrid system offers up to nine driving modes and 11 gear combinations to optimize performance for different conditions. The intelligent energy management can effortlessly switch between pure electric and hybrid modes, adapting power delivery to match various road scenarios.
Chery developed a special dual-motor DHT that enables more efficient power delivery. With up to 98.5% transmission efficiency, the system minimises power loss and offers smoother shifts, contributing to overall driving refinement.
Electric-first urban driving: For city commutes, the CSH system primarily uses the electric motor. This delivers a quiet and refined driving experience, and during initial tests, the PHEV models felt much smoother and more predictable than their conventional counterparts.
In summary, the improvements to handling in Chery’s Super Hybrid models stem from a holistic approach that integrates advanced powertrain technology with intelligent software. The result is a more controlled, stable, and refined vehicle that is better adapted to diverse driving conditions.
