In 2026, Chery and Geely focused on new-generation hybrid powertrains with stated fuel consumption of around 2 liters per 100 km. This is significantly lower than most modern hybrids, where average consumption is 3.5–5 L per 100 km.
These results are achieved through a combination of 1.5–2.0 L gasoline engines, highly efficient electric motors, and advanced energy management systems. In some cases, the total output of a hybrid powertrain can exceed 200–300 HP while maintaining low fuel consumption.
The reason for the shift toward hybrids is the slowdown in EV market growth. Despite increasing sales, charging infrastructure remains limited, especially outside large cities. Hybrids can offer a range of 800–1,000 km on a single refill, combining electric and gasoline power.
Chery and Geely are actively investing in their own development. This allows them to compete with Toyota, which has long been a leader in the hybrid segment. For example, Toyota demonstrates fuel consumption of around 2-4 L per 100 km, while Chinese manufacturers claim nearly double the efficiency improvement.
If real-world figures are close to the stated ones, this could change the market. Lower fuel consumption directly reduces operating costs, which is especially important amid rising gasoline prices.
Ultimately, hybrids are becoming less of an intermediate step and more of an independent and logical choice for those who want fuel efficiency but are not ready to depend on charging infrastructure. In the coming years-through to the end of the decade-these technologies could become the most practical solution for the mass market, rather than just a transitional stage toward EVs.
