2024 WEY 80 Long 1.5T (487 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4WD DHT

The WEY 80 Long 1.5T is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) minivan produced by WEY, a luxury automotive brand under the Great Wall Motor company of China, beginning in 2024. While not currently sold in the United States, the 80 Long represents WEY’s ambition to compete in the growing market for premium, spacious family vehicles, particularly within China and select export markets. It is positioned as a technologically advanced and comfortable people carrier, emphasizing both fuel efficiency and performance through its sophisticated hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive system.

WEY 80 Long: Overview and Market Positioning

The WEY brand was established in 2017, aiming to offer a more upscale experience compared to Great Wall’s mainstream offerings. The 80 Long is a key model in WEY’s lineup, designed to appeal to families seeking a blend of luxury, practicality, and modern technology. The “Long” designation indicates an extended wheelbase version, providing increased interior space. The vehicle’s focus on a plug-in hybrid powertrain reflects the growing demand for environmentally conscious vehicles and the increasing availability of charging infrastructure in key markets. Its primary market is China, where large minivans remain popular, but WEY intends to expand its global presence with models like the 80 Long.

Engine & Performance

The WEY 80 Long 1.5T utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, producing 152 horsepower and 171.11 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with two electric motors – one driving the front wheels and another powering the rear axle, resulting in an all-wheel-drive configuration. The front electric motor generates 177 horsepower and 221.27 lb-ft of torque, while the rear motor contributes 184 horsepower and 171.11 lb-ft of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 487 horsepower and a substantial 562.02 lb-ft of torque. This allows for brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.6 seconds and a 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 105.63 mph (170 km/h). The powertrain employs WEY’s DHT (Dedicated Hybrid Technology) transmission, a two-speed automatic, optimized for efficiency and seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. Fuel economy is rated between 35.1 and 1176.1 US mpg (NEDC standard), with a combined fuel consumption of 0.2-6.7 l/100 km.

Design & Features

The WEY 80 Long is a five-door minivan with seating for six passengers. Its exterior design incorporates modern styling cues, including a prominent grille, sleek headlights, and a streamlined silhouette. The extended wheelbase contributes to a spacious interior, prioritizing passenger comfort. Key features include a large panoramic sunroof, premium interior materials, and advanced infotainment systems. The vehicle is equipped with a 44.28 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor, providing an all-electric range of up to 113.71 miles (183 km) based on the NEDC standard. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. The trunk offers a versatile space, ranging from 11.12 cu. ft. with all seats in use to 69.75 cu. ft. with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle also includes a Start & Stop system to further enhance fuel efficiency.

Technical Specifications