Changan to launch Zhixiang hybrid in late '09

Shanghai, June 18 (Gasgoo.com) After releasing its Jiexun HEV to the market last week, Changan Auto will launch another hybrid model - the Zhixiang hybrid sedan - by the end of this year, and the company is also planning hybrid minivans, sina.com said today.

As China's first mass-produced hybrid sedan model, the Changan Jiexun HEV rolled off the production line in December 2007. The car's fuel consumption is 20% lower than a conventional model and its emission meets the China IV standard. The Jiexun HEV went on sale on June 11, 2009.

The Zhixiang Hybrid -- the second hybrid model developed and made by Changan Auto -- is scheduled for launch by the end of this year. This model was put on trial run in the summer of 2008 as a new-energy Olympic car.

Sources said the Changan Zhixiang Hybrid will have two models. The 1.6-liter low-hybrid model will be fueled by 90# lead-free gasoline and compressed natural gas (CNG), and the 1.5-liter medium-hybrid model will be fueled by 90# lead-free gasoline.

Meanwhile, Changan Auto is planning the hybrid versions of its flagship minivan series. The biggest concern of the hybrid minivans is the cost, but the carmaker believes this problem will be solved by commercializing the new energy and reducing the costs of engines and batteries.