GWM Says No to REEVs, Reveals New AI-based Platform

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has unveiled its new GWM One automotive platform, setting a clear technical direction for the company’s next generation of vehicles while previewing the first SUV built on the architecture.

The platform was introduced in China earlier this month as GWM accelerates its global electrification push.

At the launch, GWM President Mu Feng confirmed the company will not develop range-extended electric vehicles (REEV). He said the technology suffers from inherent efficiency losses due to its long energy conversion chain, particularly at medium and high speeds, and offers no real technical advantage over direct-drive solutions. 

Internal testing shows REEV systems can be at least 13% less efficient, reinforcing GWM’s decision to exclude them entirely.

Officially named Guiyuan in Chinese, the GWM One platform is described as a native AI powertrain architecture. It supports battery electric (EV), hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), internal combustion and fuel-cell powertrains within a single framework, allowing multiple vehicle types to be developed without separate platforms.

The architecture is based on a modular “movable-type” concept, combining 49 core hardware modules with hundreds of shared components. This allows flexible development of SUVs, sedans, MPVs and pickups while improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing overall ownership costs.

For EV models, GWM One supports up to a 900V architecture, peak charging power beyond 600 kW and bidirectional external power output. Hybrid applications use an upgraded Hi4 system with dual motors, multi-mode operation and a dedicated multi-speed hybrid transmission paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.

Software plays a central role too, with Coffee EEA 4.0, the ASL intelligent agent and dual VLA large models coordinating powertrain, chassis and driver-assistance systems in real time to optimise performance and efficiency.

The first SUV built on GWM One has been previewed here under the WEY nameplate. The flagship model is said to be around 5.3 metres long with a 2+2+2 seating layout, positioning it in the large premium SUV segment.

Early reports indicate the SUV uses a 2.0-litre PHEV system with an 800V architecture. Performance figures suggest a 0–100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds with a full charge and 4.7 seconds on low charge, with a pure-electric range exceeding 400 km.

Total WLTC range is claimed to reach up to 1,300 km, with hybrid fuel consumption quoted at 6.3 litres per 100 km. Rapid charging is said to add around 200 km of electric range in just five minutes.

GWM said the GWM One platform will underpin more than 50 future models globally. With its AI-driven design, modular flexibility and firm rejection of range-extender technology, the platform defines GWM’s long-term powertrain and product strategy.

Source: CarNewsChina 1 & CarNewsChina 2