South Africa is set to welcome four exciting new plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) before the end of the year, all capable of covering more than 1,000km on a single charge and tank. These models, from renowned Chinese manufacturers BYD, Haval, Jaecoo, and Omoda, are poised to make their debut between the next few weeks and the end of 2025. Each of these new arrivals will feature an SUV body style, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and impressive range.
BYD Sealion 6 – Launching Q1 2025
The BYD Sealion 6 will be the automaker’s fourth offering in South Africa, joining the Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal. Available in two variants—Dynamic and Premium—the Sealion 6 boasts impressive hybrid capabilities. The entry-level Dynamic model features a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine, paired with an electric motor to deliver a combined 160kW and 300Nm. With front-wheel drive and a sophisticated automatic transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Premium variant offers a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine, paired with two e-motors, producing a total of 238kW and 550Nm, allowing it to reach 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds. Both versions feature an 18.3kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of 81-92km. The Sealion 6 has an impressive total range of 1,092km for the front-wheel drive and 961km for the all-wheel drive model.
BYD Sealion 6 Features
| Feature | Dynamic Model | Premium Model |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L Petrol + E-Motor | 1.5L Turbo Petrol + 2 E-Motors |
| Combined Power Output | 160kW / 300Nm | 238kW / 550Nm |
| Electric Range | 92km | 81km |
| Total Range | 1,092km | 961km |
| 0-100km/h Acceleration | 8.5 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Battery Capacity | 18.3kWh | 18.3kWh |
Jaecoo J7 PHEV – Arriving Q2 2025
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV is another exciting hybrid coming to South Africa, expected to launch in the second quarter of 2025. This model is capable of an impressive 1,200km range, thanks to its 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and an electric motor integrated into a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). With a total output of 255kW and 525Nm directed to the front axle, it offers a seamless driving experience. Its 18.3kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery provides up to 90km of electric-only range, and it can be recharged from 30-80% in just 20 minutes using a DC fast charger.
Jaecoo J7 PHEV Features
| Feature | Jaecoo J7 PHEV |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L Turbo Petrol + Electric Motor (DHT) |
| Combined Power Output | 255kW / 525Nm |
| Electric Range | 90km |
| Total Range | 1,200km |
| Battery Capacity | 18.3kWh |
| DC Fast Charging Time | 30-80% in 20 minutes |
Omoda C9 PHEV – Launching Q2 2025
Omoda, a sister brand of Jaecoo, will introduce the luxurious C9 PHEV in Q2 2025. This high-performance SUV combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with three electric motors, delivering a powerful 440kW and 915Nm. The result is exceptional acceleration, with the C9 accelerating like a performance car. The larger 19.4kWh battery allows for an impressive 150km electric-only range, and the vehicle’s total range is a solid 1,100km. When using a DC fast charger, the battery can be recharged from 30-80% in just 25 minutes.
Omoda C9 PHEV Features
| Feature | Omoda C9 PHEV |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L Petrol + 3 Electric Motors |
| Combined Power Output | 440kW / 915Nm |
| Electric Range | 150km |
| Total Range | 1,100km |
| Battery Capacity | 19.4kWh |
| DC Fast Charging Time | 30-80% in 25 minutes |
Haval H6 GT PHEV – Throughout 2025
The Haval H6 GT PHEV is another eagerly awaited model, confirmed for South Africa in February 2025. This sporty hybrid pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with three electric motors, delivering a total of 342kW and 762Nm. The H6 GT can reach 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds, all while offering an electric range of up to 180km. The total range, combining both the petrol engine and battery, is over 1,000km. The 35.4kWh battery supports both AC and DC charging, with a 30-80% charge achievable in 26 minutes. The Haval H6 GT PHEV is expected to retail around R800,000 upon its launch, positioning it as a direct competitor in the PHEV market.
Haval H6 GT PHEV Features
| Feature | Haval H6 GT PHEV |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.5L Turbo Petrol + 3 Electric Motors |
| Combined Power Output | 342kW / 762Nm |
| Electric Range | 180km |
| Total Range | Over 1,000km |
| Battery Capacity | 35.4kWh |
| DC Fast Charging Time | 30-80% in 26 minutes |
The Future of Hybrid SUVs in South Africa
South African motorists can look forward to an exciting lineup of new PHEVs, offering excellent range, performance, and innovative technology. With these four Chinese models—BYD Sealion 6, Jaecoo J7 PHEV, Omoda C9 PHEV, and Haval H6 GT PHEV—arriving between late 2024 and 2025, the future of hybrid SUVs in South Africa looks promising, providing more eco-friendly options for local buyers.
Related article: Car Colour Trends to Watch Out For: Is Yellow the New Black?
