GWM Enters V8 Market

V8 Revival

In a world where major players like Ford, Stellantis, and Mercedes are stepping back from V8 engines, Great Wall Motor (GWM) from China is stepping up with its new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show, this innovative engine is set to power a new luxury brand by GWM and the Tank SUV line, highlighting China’s surprising pivot to big engine power amidst a global shift to electric vehicles.

The Engine

This engine is anything but ordinary. It’s an all-aluminum DOHC V8 with a unique feature known as a hot-vee. This design places the two turbochargers inside the 90-degree vee, making them closer to the intake ports. This setup is crucial as it reduces turbo lag and helps keep the engine’s overall packaging in check. While GWM hasn’t released the power figures, they’ve hinted at a performance edge, especially since this engine is designed for plug-in hybrid applications.

Driving Feel

There’s something inherently satisfying about a V8 growl. With GWM’s latest offering, one can expect robust power delivery designed to impress when towing or when the accelerator hits the floor for quick overtakes. Although primarily set up to operate as a hybrid, allowing electric propulsion in regular conditions, the blend of an electric motor with V8 power promises a dynamic driving experience, especially in diverse conditions. Drivers will appreciate the option to flex the V8 muscle, perhaps reminiscent of past American muscle cars but with a modern hybrid twist.

Market Impact

This V8 powertrain will debut under GWM’s new luxury brand Confidence, a name implying authority and proficiency. In addition to luxury sedans, some models of GWM’s Tank SUVs — like the eagerly awaited Tank 700 — will also house this engine. This move positions GWM in a unique spot, offering an alternative in the declining V8 market. It’s a bold step that some might find surprising, but it’s a strategic one that aims to capture the attention of performance and luxury vehicle enthusiasts.

GWM’s Ambition

China’s automotive scene has long been dominated by electric vehicle innovations. Yet, with GWM showcasing a large-displacement engine, it underscores that while they’re pioneers in electrification, they’re not shy to challenge Western brands with traditional power. The V8 is more than just an engine; it symbolizes GWM’s ambition to provide a holistic automotive experience blending power, luxury, and cutting-edge technology.