The SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L (143 Hp) Extended Range is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) introduced in February 2023 by the Italian-owned, Chinese manufacturer SWM Motors. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Tiger lineup, this variant combines a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering both all-electric driving capability and extended range through the internal combustion engine. The Tiger, a crossover SUV, is primarily marketed in China, aiming to appeal to consumers seeking fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without sacrificing the practicality of a larger vehicle. It’s available with either five or seven seats, catering to families and those needing flexible passenger space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | SWM |
| Model | Tiger |
| Type | EDi 1.5L (143 Hp) Extended Range |
| Start of production | February, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 2.06 l/100 km (114.2 US mpg, 137.1 UK mpg, 48.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI b |
| Gross battery capacity | 8.8 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| All-electric range | 46 km (28.58 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 11.3 kWh/100 km (18.19 kWh/100 mi, 185 MPGe, 8.8 km/kWh, 5.5 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 143 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 143 Hp |
| System torque | 210 Nm (154.89 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 102 Hp |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 126 Nm (92.93 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F31A1 |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4605 mm (181.3 in.) |
| Width | 1815 mm (71.46 in.) |
| Height | 1810-1825 mm (71.26 – 71.85 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2780 mm (109.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive, PHEV |
| Number of gears | 1, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L utilizes a series-parallel plug-in hybrid system. The core of the powertrain is the F31A1 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, producing 102 horsepower and 92.93 lb-ft of torque, is naturally aspirated and employs a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. Notably, the gasoline engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels; instead, it functions primarily as a generator to recharge the 8.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. The electric motor, a synchronous unit, delivers 143 horsepower and 154.89 lb-ft of torque, providing the primary motive force. The single-speed automatic transmission efficiently delivers power to the front wheels. The system allows for operation in full electric mode for up to 46 km (28.58 miles), and seamlessly switches to hybrid mode when the battery is depleted or when additional power is required.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience in the SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L is heavily influenced by the electric motor. In electric mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, making it ideal for urban driving. The single-speed transmission provides smooth, linear power delivery. When the gasoline engine engages, it does so relatively unobtrusively, primarily to maintain the battery charge or provide additional power during acceleration. Compared to potential gasoline-only versions of the Tiger, the EDi offers a more refined and responsive driving experience, particularly at lower speeds. The lack of traditional gear changes contributes to a smoother ride. However, the combined system weight does impact handling somewhat, making it less agile than lighter, purely gasoline-powered competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EDi 1.5L Extended Range trim typically includes standard features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, power windows and locks, and a suite of safety features including ABS and electronic stability control. Interior upholstery is generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Higher trim levels within the EDi range may add features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The availability of these features can vary depending on the specific market and optional packages selected.
Chassis & Braking
The SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering offers light and precise control. The vehicle is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L has received mixed reviews in the Chinese market. Critics generally praise its fuel efficiency and all-electric range, but some have noted the relatively modest power output of the gasoline engine and the somewhat basic interior materials. Compared to other PHEV crossovers in China, the Tiger offers a competitive price point and a decent level of equipment. Its fuel economy of 2.06 l/100 km is comparable to other PHEVs in its class. Reliability data is still emerging, but early reports suggest that the powertrain is generally reliable, although long-term durability remains to be seen.
Legacy
The SWM Tiger EDi 1.5L represents SWM Motors’ attempt to establish a foothold in the growing PHEV market. While its long-term success remains uncertain, the vehicle demonstrates a commitment to electrification and fuel efficiency. The LiFePO4 battery technology is known for its safety and longevity, which could contribute to the vehicle’s long-term reliability. As the used car market matures, the EDi 1.5L is likely to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable and environmentally friendly crossover SUV with the added benefit of plug-in hybrid technology. The powertrain’s simplicity, with the engine acting primarily as a generator, could potentially lead to lower maintenance costs compared to more complex hybrid systems.
