The Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV produced by the Chinese automotive manufacturer Voyah. Introduced in 2023, it represents a significant offering in the burgeoning luxury EV market, particularly within China. Production of this specific configuration, featuring the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and extended-range battery, continued until August 2023. The Free is built upon a dedicated electric vehicle platform, aiming to combine the benefits of electric driving with the flexibility of a gasoline engine for extended range. It is positioned as a premium SUV, competing with established European and American brands in the growing electric SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Voyah |
| Model | Free |
| Generation | Free |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| End of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 214.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 315.8 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 39 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| All-electric range | 205 km (127.38 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 20.2 kWh/100 km (32.51 kWh/100 mi, 104 MPGe, 5 km/kWh, 3.1 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 272 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Rear) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 218 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 310 Nm (228.64 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Front) | Synchronous |
| System power | 490 Hp |
| System torque | 720 Nm (531.04 lb.-ft.) |
| Power (ICE) | 109 Hp |
| Power per litre (ICE) | 72.8 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SFG15TR |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2665 kg (5875.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 385 kg (848.78 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1320 l (46.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4905 mm (193.11 in.) |
| Width | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Height | 1645 mm (64.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2960 mm (116.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1647 mm (64.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 163 mm (6.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives generator only, two electric motors drive front and rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range, launched in 2023, is a significant model within Voyah’s lineup. It’s built on the EP9 platform, a dedicated electric vehicle architecture, and represents Voyah’s ambition to compete in the premium SUV segment. This particular variant, combining a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and a substantial battery pack, offers a blend of electric driving range and extended overall range. The “Extended Range” designation highlights its ability to operate primarily on electric power for daily commutes while utilizing the gasoline engine for longer journeys, mitigating range anxiety. It was produced for a short period, ending in August 2023.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Voyah Free 1.5 utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is a 1.5-liter, inline-four cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine (SFG15TR) producing 109 horsepower. This engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels; instead, it functions solely as a generator to charge the battery pack and provide supplemental power to the electric motors. The engine features direct fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger for improved efficiency and power output. Two synchronous electric motors, one driving the front axle and the other the rear, provide all-wheel drive capability. The front motor delivers 218 horsepower and 310 Nm (228.64 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the rear motor produces 272 horsepower and 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 490 horsepower and 720 Nm (531.04 lb.-ft.) of torque. The transmission is a single-speed automatic, optimized for the electric motors’ characteristics. The 39 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows for an all-electric range of 205 km (127.38 miles).
Driving Characteristics
The Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range offers a distinctly different driving experience compared to traditional internal combustion engine SUVs. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and responsive performance. The instant torque from the electric motors results in brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.6 seconds. When the gasoline engine engages, it does so seamlessly, primarily to maintain battery charge or provide additional power during demanding driving situations. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various conditions. The single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, eliminating gear changes. The suspension, tuned for comfort, provides a smooth ride, while the relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the battery pack, contributes to confident handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range was generally well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features typically included a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These systems often included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, premium interior trim materials, and additional ADAS features. The interior design emphasized a minimalist aesthetic with high-quality materials and a focus on technology integration.
Chassis & Braking
The Voyah Free 1.5 features a robust chassis designed to accommodate the weight of the battery pack and provide a comfortable ride. The front suspension utilizes a double wishbone configuration, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup. This combination provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The electric steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range received generally positive reviews, particularly for its performance, range, and technology. Critics praised the smooth and quiet electric driving experience, as well as the seamless transition between electric and gasoline power. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, the Voyah Free offered a competitive all-electric range and a powerful combined output. However, some reviewers noted that the interior design, while modern, lacked the refinement of some established European competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the combined fuel consumption rated at 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg).
Legacy
Although produced for a relatively short period, the Voyah Free 1.5 (490 Hp) 4WD Extended Range represents an important step in Voyah’s development as a premium EV manufacturer. The powertrain, while complex, demonstrates the potential of plug-in hybrid technology to deliver both electric driving benefits and extended range. On the used car market, these models are likely to appeal to buyers seeking a technologically advanced and powerful SUV with a long-term focus on electric driving. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be fully assessed, but the use of established components from reputable suppliers suggests a reasonable level of durability.
