The Dongfeng eπ 008 1.5T 34.32 kWh (272 Hp) EREV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV introduced by the Chinese automaker Dongfeng in June 2024. Positioned as a technologically advanced and fuel-efficient option within Dongfeng’s expanding electric vehicle lineup, the eπ 008 aims to appeal to consumers seeking a blend of electric driving range and the convenience of a gasoline engine. It is built on a dedicated EV platform and offers seating for five to six passengers, depending on the configuration. The “EREV” designation signifies an Extended Range Electric Vehicle, meaning it prioritizes electric drive but includes a gasoline engine to generate electricity when the battery is depleted, effectively extending the vehicle’s overall range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DongFeng |
| Model | eπ 008 |
| Generation | eπ 008 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T 34.32 kWh (272 Hp) EREV |
| Start of production | June, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 0.7 l/100 km (336 US mpg, 403.5 UK mpg, 142.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.3 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 34.32 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (CLTC) | 210 km (130.49 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (CLTC) | 15.8 kWh/100 km (25.43 kWh/100 mi, 133 MPGe, 6.3 km/kWh, 3.9 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 272 Hp |
| System torque | 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 147 Hp @ 4500 rpm (98.2 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (154.89 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DFMC15TE3 |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 2189 kg (4825.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2596 kg (5723.2 lbs.) |
| Max load | 407 kg (897.28 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5002 mm (196.93 in.) |
| Width | 1972 mm (77.64 in.) |
| Height | 1732 mm (68.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3025 mm (119.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.268 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the rear wheels. The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the generator only, with no mechanical connection to the drive. There is an ability for running in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Dongfeng eπ 008 1.5T EREV utilizes a sophisticated powertrain combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine (DFMC15TE3) with an electric motor and a 34.32 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. The gasoline engine produces 147 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000-4500 rpm. It’s important to note that this engine doesn’t directly power the wheels; instead, it functions as a generator to recharge the battery or provide supplemental power to the electric motor when needed. The electric motor, located on the rear axle, delivers 272 horsepower and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque. The system’s combined output is also rated at 272 horsepower. The engine features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The single-speed automatic transmission is dedicated to the electric motor, providing seamless acceleration. The battery pack is positioned under the floor, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling.
Driving Characteristics
The eπ 008 1.5T EREV offers a driving experience focused on smoothness and efficiency. In pure electric mode, the vehicle provides instant torque and quiet operation. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to balanced handling. When the battery is depleted or requires additional power, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to act as a generator, maintaining a consistent driving experience. While not as dynamically engaging as a performance-oriented SUV, the eπ 008 prioritizes comfort and fuel economy. The single-speed transmission simplifies operation, but it doesn’t offer the gear ratios for maximizing acceleration like a multi-gear automatic. The weight of the battery pack (2189 kg / 4825.92 lbs) is noticeable, but the low center of gravity helps mitigate body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Specific trim levels and standard equipment for the eπ 008 1.5T EREV can vary depending on the market and optional packages. However, generally, this variant includes features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery (or premium synthetic materials), automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels may add features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and ventilated front seats. The interior design emphasizes a modern and minimalist aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The eπ 008 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, ensuring adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to stability during cornering. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dongfeng eπ 008 1.5T EREV is primarily targeted at the Chinese market, where demand for PHEVs and EVs is rapidly growing. Reviews have generally praised the vehicle’s fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Compared to other trims in the eπ 008 lineup, the 1.5T EREV offers a balance between electric range and overall range, making it suitable for drivers who want the benefits of electric driving but are concerned about range anxiety. Its fuel economy of 0.7 l/100 km is significantly better than traditional gasoline-powered SUVs. Reliability data is still emerging, but Dongfeng has been investing in improving the quality and durability of its vehicles.
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the Dongfeng eπ 008 1.5T EREV remains to be seen. However, the use of a well-established 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and a robust LiFePO4 battery pack suggests a reasonable level of durability. The EREV powertrain configuration offers a practical solution for consumers transitioning to electric vehicles, providing the flexibility of gasoline power when needed. In the used car market, the eπ 008 is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly as demand for electric and hybrid vehicles continues to increase. The vehicle represents Dongfeng’s commitment to developing innovative and sustainable transportation solutions.
