Quick Take: GWM Tank 500 Driven In China Across Icy, Rugged Terrains!

We were recently privileged to attend the GWM Ice and Snow Festival at Changbai Mountain from Jan 9 to 15, 2025, where we wondered how vehicles tested in freezing conditions could excel in Malaysia’s tropical climate.

By the end of the experience, it was clear: GWM’s engineering transcends weather and geography, proving to be reliable across a diverse spectrum of terrains and climates.

The festival’s highlight was the all-new GWM Tank 500 Hi4-Z, a hybrid SUV powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. With two electric motors, it boasts a combined output of 851 HP and 1,165 NM, embodying both power and precision.

Interestingly, the Tank 500 Hi4-Z tested at the festival is not the same as what GWM Malaysia previewed last month at the recent KL International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024.

The Malaysia-bound version, expected to launch later this year at an estimated RM400,000, instead features a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cyl petrol engine paired with a hybrid electric motor. This setup delivers 346 HP and 658 NM - more than sufficient for city traffic and off-road adventures.

Renowned racer Lu Binglong demonstrated the Tank 500 Hi4-Z’s capabilities on the treacherous White Tiger Slope, showcasing its stability, torque distribution, and sustained power.

While Malaysia’s tropical climate is vastly different from Changbai Mountain’s snow-covered fields, the hybrid drivetrain’s effectiveness inspires confidence. Our recent experience with the Haval H6 HEV, another GWM offering already available in Malaysia, reinforces this belief.

The Tank 500 which features adaptive suspension, excels on bumpy, snow-covered trails. In a sense, this tech is indeed well-suited for Malaysia’s pothole-ridden rural roads and rocky jungle tracks, offering comfort and control.

Additionally, GWM introduced the GWM Off-Road Alliance during the festival, aiming to build a global off-road community. For Malaysians, this initiative promises tailored training, resources, and experiences to enhance local adventures. Advanced traction systems ensure confidence in tackling unpredictable terrain, whether on coastal sands or muddy paths.

The Off-Road Alliance, which will also be introduced here in Malaysia, focuses on practical skills, such as navigating steep inclines, crossing waterlogged roads, and optimising vehicle performance. Techniques like these will elevate the adventurous spirit of future Tank owners.

GWM’s off-road scenario grading system, which categorises terrains from Level 1 to Level 10, provides a clear framework for tackling diverse landscapes.

Overall, the festival wasn’t just about showcasing vehicles - it was about embracing a lifestyle. GWM’s commitment to fostering communities and designing vehicles for all environments aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s adventurous spirit.

After witnessing their performance firsthand, we’re excited to see how GWM will redefine adventures in Malaysia.