Initially thought to only focus on economical SUVs, JETOUR surprised everyone with the release of the JETOUR Grand Saint and JETOUR Traveler, launching their “Travel+” plan. Recently, JETOUR introduced a new plug-in hybrid SUV, the Shanhai L9, the first model in the Shanhai series. The overall design of the new car is similar to the Idean ONE, and the name “L9” also brings to mind the Idean L9. However, in terms of positioning, the Shanhai L9 is actually a mid-size SUV, with a starting price of 166,900 yuan (23360$), which is only half the price of the Idean. Of course, the new car has many advantages, including a new platform and new power, so the question arises: how capable is the Shanhai L9? New platform, new cabin, and a 15.6-inch large screen are standard.
The JETOUR L9 is the first model of the all-new JETOUR series, and it presents a clear shadow of a new energy SUV. The new design style is different from previous models, including a U-shaped grille, through-type daytime running lights, and rear taillights, giving it a very trendy look. At the same time, the JETOUR L9 also has a length of over 4.8 meters and a wheelbase of 2850 millimeters, belonging to the standard medium-sized SUV category. Its biggest advantage compared to its competitors is that it offers both 5-seater and 7-seater options, providing a more diverse choice for users.
It is worth noting that the Jetour X70L uses the Kunlun off-road platform, the Kunpeng C-DM technology, and the Lion intelligent cockpit. These are all powerful technical guarantees to enhance the new car. For example, the Kunlun off-road platform is a highly common platform, with the advantage of being able to be compatible with many advanced driving control technologies, including active suspension, XWD intelligent four-wheel drive technology, four-wheel steering and other configurations. Even though the X70L does not currently use these, it also reserves a lot of room for future upgrades, and can also achieve various power matches including plug-in hybrid and extended range.
Based on the positioning of the L9 in the mountains and seas, it seems that practicality and technology are its main selling points. It is equipped with the Kunpeng Super C-DM hybrid system, as well as a rich array of technological equipment, including a 15.6-inch large screen and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip, all part of the Lion Smart Cabin. The car’s system also covers mainstream functions such as vehicle networking and OTA, and supports intelligent voice control, continuous dialogue, and dual-zone control. Importantly, these configurations are all standard across the entire range, so even the entry-level model, priced at less than 170,000, offers the same intelligent experience as the high-end models, reaching a level of more than 200,000, with good value for money. Equipped with the C-DM hybrid system, the comprehensive fuel consumption is less than 2L.
JETOUR’s new L9 is positioned as a plug-in hybrid SUV, equipped with the Kungpeng C-DM hybrid system. This system will be a key step in JETOUR’s hybridization process, with more models to come in the future. How does this hybrid system stack up in terms of performance, and what advantages does it have compared to its competitors?
Let’s take a look at the power parameters of the SHANHAI L9. It is equipped with the KUNPENG C-DM, a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 1.5T engine and an electric motor, using a P2+P3 layout. The maximum power of the engine is 115 kilowatts, and the comprehensive maximum power of the system is 314 kilowatts. It is matched with a 2-speed DHT transmission, and the vehicle’s 0-100 km/h acceleration is 7.8 seconds. The CLTC pure electric range can reach up to 108km, and its overall performance is at the upper level of the same class.
The C-DM hybrid of Kunpeng has two main cores. One is the high-efficiency hybrid engine. The 1.5TGDI engine has Miller cycle, fourth-generation i-HEC intelligent combustion system and many other advanced technologies. Its thermal efficiency reaches 44.5%, higher than other hybrid engines of the same level, resulting in better fuel economy. The WLTC comprehensive fuel consumption is 1.49L/100km. Considering its identity as a medium-sized SUV and a curb weight of about 1.9 tons, it has reached a quite impressive level.
Another core is the 2-speed DHT. Compared with the 3-speed DHT used in the previous “Chery series” hybrid, this time the Shanhai L9 uses a 2-speed DHT. It is different from the 1DHT130 and 3DHT165 three-speed hybrid special transmissions used by Chery Holding Group, but it is definitely not a new model. It is provided by a newly established company, and this time Jetour can be considered acting alone. Of course, there is no need to worry about the reasons behind this, just know that Jetour has a wide range of choices in terms of transmissions. In the future, it is very likely that the Shanhai series models will use this 2-speed DHT, while others like the Jetour Traveler may still use the 3DHT165 hybrid special transmission. As for the difference between the 2-speed DHT and the 3-speed DHT, it is obvious that there will not be much difference in daily use. The 3-speed DHT is more about increasing the direct drive frequency in some scenarios. At the same time, due to cost reasons, the 2-speed DHT is definitely advantageous, after all, some mechanical structures need to be reduced within the transmission. The starting price given by Jetour Shanhai L9, which is 166,900 yuan (23360$), is actually a clear answer. The price is obviously much cheaper than that of its counterparts in the same class. The most cost-effective 7-seater SUV at the same price?
In terms of product strength, the Jetour X70L9 is a well-balanced plug-in hybrid mid-size SUV. With a size of over 4.8 meters, it is at a medium level among its peers. Its fuel consumption per 100 kilometers and zero to 100 km/h acceleration performance are also at a good level compared to its peers. It also comes with popular technological features and an intelligent cockpit, including L2-level driving assistance. However, compared to its competitors, it has a major advantage: it is a 7-seat plug-in hybrid SUV with a lower price. In simple terms, it either has 7 seats at a lower price or is cheaper than other 7-seat options.
Looking at the domestic market, there are not many medium-sized plug-in hybrid SUVs. The mainstream products include the Tang DM-i, the recently launched Lynk & Co 08 EM-P, and the new force products, as well as the cost-effective Zero Run C11 extended range version. Among them, the Tang DM-i is more similar to the JETOUR X70 L9 in terms of product strength, including a length of over 4.8 meters and seating for 7 people. The DM-i super hybrid leads the same level in fuel efficiency, but the price of the Tang DM-i exceeds 200,000 yuan (27990$), which is more expensive than the top-of-the-line JETOUR X70 L9. Therefore, it is not considered a direct competitor among consumers.
In comparison, the Lynk 08 EM-P is also a recent hot product, but the overall hybrid system is more focused on sportiness. On the other hand, the Zero Run C11 extended-range version has a completely different powertrain. Although it is cheaper, its actual product orientation is quite different from the Lynk 08 EM-P. Importantly, neither of these models offer a 7-seater option. So are there any other 7-seater SUVs for around 170,000 yuan (23790$)? Of course, there are many domestic fuel SUVs, but compared to the Lynk 08 EM-P, they cannot compete in terms of driving quality, power, and fuel consumption. So overall, these 7-seater SUVs are not as cost-effective. In conclusion, the Lynk 08 EM-P has many rivals in terms of positioning, especially among popular plug-in hybrid SUVs. However, with a price of less than 200,000 yuan (27990$), the Lynk 08 EM-P has a significant price advantage over these rivals. In terms of configuration, the Lynk 08 EM-P has also reached mainstream levels and offers good value for money. More importantly, with its 7-seater identity and C-DM hybrid system, the Lynk 08 EM-P has become almost the only choice for a cost-effective 7-seater plug-in hybrid SUV in the same price range. If you want to save money on a 7-seater plug-in hybrid SUV, besides the Lynk 08 EM-P, you really can’t find any other options.