SAIC-GM-Wuling introduces latest tech achievements with debut of Xingguang sedan model

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On October 16, SAIC-GM-Wuling ("SGMW") held the Wuling Technology Evolution Day, unveiling a series of cutting-edge technological innovations, including the Wuling Lingxi Hybrid System, the Shenlian Battery, and the end-cloud intelligent safety technology. Simultaneously, it introduced its all-new vehicle model, the Wuling Xingguang, which falls into the A+ segment sedan category.

Photo credit: SGMW

The Wuling Lingxi Hybrid System comprises a hybrid-specific engine, electromagnetic DHT, drive motor, and a hybrid-specific battery. The engine is the latest S15 series hybrid-specific engine, boasting innovations like an advanced intake system, Atkinson cycle, low-pressure EGR, DLC diamond-like carbon coating, split cooling, and a high-efficiency electronic water pump, resulting in an impressive peak thermal efficiency of 43.2%. Operating in the efficient zone for 92% of the time, this engine covers a 40% efficiency range, with power generation spanning from 8kW to 60kW.

Wuling Lingxi hybrid-dedicated electric motor; photo credit: SGMW

The electric motor features dual-layer short-distance low-harmonic windings, low-loss high-performance silicon steel sheets, low-resistance bearings, and rotor skew technology, achieving a remarkable maximum efficiency of 96.8%. Such technologies as high-precision torque control and wide-voltage pulse-width modulation technology enhance the electronic control system's efficiency, reaching an outstanding 98.8% efficiency for the motor controller. The system also incorporates Wuling's latest high-power control module and intelligent energy recovery technology, achieving a 30% energy recovery rate.

electromagnetic DHT; photo credit: SGMW

At the event, SGMW introduced the electromagnetic DHT, featuring a hydraulic-free structure and electromagnetic clutch, reducing weight by 5% compared to traditional hydraulic clutches and minimizing energy loss. When the engine and electric drive work together, the DHT clutch's precision in controlling the speed difference between front and rear gear discs is within 50rpm, four times more accurate than industry’s average standards. This system enables precise, rapid, and smooth mode transitions in just 0.2 seconds.

Shenlian Battery; photo credit: SGMW

As for the Shenlian Battery, it significantly improves space utilization by employing innovative L-shaped safety tabs, high-thermal-stability low-thermal-conductivity ceramic coatings, and upgraded nano-phosphate lithium iron materials. The battery also boasts exceptional safety features, remaining non-combustible even when punctured.

To further enhance the safety of the battery system, the automaker introduced the end-cloud intelligent safety technology, coordinating on-board and cloud-based battery management system (BMS) intelligence. This technology ensures battery safety throughout its entire lifecycle, resulting in more than a 90% reduction in maintenance costs.

Photo credit: SGMW

The Wuling Xingguang, as first Wuling-branded sedan model, showcases a fresh Star Wing aesthetic design. With a minimal drag coefficient of just 0.228Cd, it comes in six different color options. Its all-electric version features a closed-off grille, while the hybrid version incorporates a perforated grille design. The headlamps adopt a two-tier design, featuring an LED light strip running across the upper portion, LED lamps with automatic high beam and cornering assist capabilities at the lower part, with a lighting range spanning 6 lanes and a distance of over 170 meters.

Moving to the vehicle's side profile, the Wuling Xingguang exhibits a harmonious overall proportion. Its roof embraces the sleek and sporty elements of contemporary hatchback design, giving it a fluid and dynamic visual appeal. The Z-shaped waistline on the sides, along with well-defined front and rear fenders, enhances the model's multi-layered feel. Additionally, the car comes equipped with 18-inch Star Spin wheels with low-air-resistance tires, improving aerodynamics and cabin quietness. The car measure 4,835mm in length, 1,860mm in width, 1,515mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,800mm.

Photo credit: SGMW

At the rear, the Wuling Xingguang features a striking full-width LED taillight strip, shaped with distinctive C-pattern contours on each side. This design is expected to provide excellent visibility at night. Furthermore, the rear bumper includes a large black panel adorned with horizontal raised stripes, adding depth and character to the vehicle's rear end.

Photo credit: SGMW

Inside the cabin, the Wuling Xingguang offers two interior color options: deep black and light sand color. It comes equipped with a dual-spoke multifunction steering wheel, an LCD instrument cluster, and a large floating central control screen, presenting a minimalist yet sophisticated visual impression on the T-shaped center console. Notably, the front seats can recline up to 180 degrees, allowing them to be folded flat with the rear cushions, creating a spacious area with a "Long-Leg Rear Row" that offers an impressive 390mm aisle width and up to 1 meter of legroom.

The rear cargo area offers 540 liters of storage space, easily accommodating two 24-inch and two 20-inch suitcases, with an additional 33 liters of concealed storage space beneath the floor. The model boasts more than 14 storage compartments, including a double-layer armrest box, providing both practicality and ample storage capacity.

Photo credit: SGMW

In terms of power options, the Wuling Xingguang offers both pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric versions. The all-electric version features a 100kW electric motor with a top speed of 150km/h. The plug-in hybrid version incorporates the Wuling Lingxi hybrid technology, including a 1.5-liter engine with a maximum power of 78kW. It offers two variants based on battery-powered ranges—50km and 105km, and features a combined WLTC-rated fuel consumption of 3.98L/100km.

The Wuling Xingguang is set to hit the market in late November this year.