JAECOO'S plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) J7 variant has broken its own personal record.

The model achieved a range of 1,427.5km on a single tank, surpassing the initially listed 1,200km (WLTP) range the company gave.

This was demonstrated with five two-wheel drive (2WD) Jaecoo J7 PHEVs embarking on a journey from Singapore, through Malaysia to Hatyai, Thailand.

Jaecoo’s intention for the long-haul journey was to test the limits of the PHEV’s range, as well as to empower users on the compatibility of PHEV engine for the local market and address interest around range and energy consumption.

The model surpassed its specifications by covering a distance of 947km purely on petrol and achieving a purely electric range of 108km which is 18km more than its specifications. 

The drive also tested the Jaecoo J7 PHEV’s fuel consumption which resulted in 3.5L/100km, surpassing its standard of 6.6L/100km. 

“We are incredibly proud to finally demonstrate the Jaecoo J7 PHEV’s performance to the local market. It has truly excelled when put to the test during the course of this journey, a testament to the Jaecoo brand promise of delivering best-in-class vehicles. 

"In addition to being the only PHEV with a direct current (DC) charging capability, our Super Hybrid System technology is the first in its class here in Malaysia. We are excited for our customers to enjoy the benefits of the Jaecoo J7 PHEV very soon,” said Jaecoo Malaysia vice president Emily Lek.

Emily believes the J7 PHEV's engine meets the Malaysian market’s demand for better fuel economy and uncompromising engine performance. 

Performance is attributed to its Super Hybrid System (SHS) that comprises a fifth generation 1.5TGDI dedicated hybrid engine, a continuously variable dedicated hybrid transmission, and a high-performance dedicated hybrid battery pack

The model's engine can produce 525 Nm of torque and is powered by an 18.3kW battery and 60 litre fuel tank.

Jaecoo’s SHS is designed with multiple energy replenishment modes. The first is a slow charging option via a 230V three-pin plug home socket which charges the vehicle from 0-100% in 8.5 hours at 3.3kW. 

The second is an AC charger with a capability of charging the vehicle from 30-80% in three hours at 6.6kW. Finally, it has DC charging option making it so far the only PHEV in the market with a DC fast charging capability. It is able to produce a battery charge of 30-80% from just 20 minutes of charging at 40kW. 

Its battery is fitted with a specialised hybrid battery with a thermal management system and is made to be impact-resistant - owing to its advanced battery armour with an internal shield and external iron-clad structure.

The PHEV’s battery is also designed to performed reliably in extreme temperatures with an IP68 rating and remains fire-resistant even under extreme conditions such as punctures or compression. 

The Jaecoo J7 PHEV is set to be available in a two-wheel drive variant in Malaysia and is set to be officially launched in February.