Great Wall Motor (GWM) has pulled the curtain back on its new flagship SUV, the Wey V9X. This massive, six-seat vehicle marks a significant milestone for GWM’s luxury sub-brand, Wey, as it serves as the debut model for the brand-new GWM One S “super platform.”
This platform is designed for versatility, intended to underpin a wide array of future vehicles including sedans, SUVs, utes, and even hydrogen fuel-cell models. The V9X is not just another SUV; it is a statement of intent in the rapidly growing luxury segment of ultra-large, electrified vehicles.
Massive Scale and Purpose-Built Dimensions
The Wey V9X is imposing in size. The flagship version measures 5,299mm in length and sits on a massive 3,150mm wheelbase. To put that in perspective, it is over 200mm longer than the GWM Tank 500 (a vehicle comparable to the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series).
GWM is offering two distinct sizes to cater to different market needs:
– The Executive Version: The longest model, designed for high-end professional use.
– The Family Edition: A slightly shorter variant (5,205mm) optimized for family utility.
Performance and the “Super Hi4” Hybrid System
The V9X utilizes the Super Hi4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system, combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors (one on each axle) and a dedicated four-speed hybrid transmission.
The powertrain lineup offers varying levels of potency depending on the chosen trim:
| Variant | Battery Capacity | Max System Output | Total Range (WLTC) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Family | 66.6kWh | 500kW / 930Nm | ~1,343km |
| Luxury Extended | 55.4kWh | 510kW / 862Nm | ~1,343km |
| Executive Extended | 80kWh | 550kW / 930Nm | ~1,377km |
Key performance highlights include:
* Rapid Charging: An 800V electrical architecture on flagship models allows for a 30-80% charge in just nine minutes via DC fast charging (up to 490kW).
* Acceleration: The V9X can sprint from 0-100km/h in as little as 4.6 seconds.
* Efficiency: Despite its size, the vehicle maintains a claimed fuel consumption of 6.3L/100km.
An Interior Focused on “Emotional Value” and Opulence
Inside, the V9X aims to rival established luxury marques through high-end materials and cutting-edge digital interfaces. The cabin features Nappa leather, suede headliners, and over 38,000 individual stitches in the trim.
The technology suite is extensive:
* Displays: A massive 29-inch augmented reality HUD, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and dual 17.3-inch touchscreens for the driver and passenger.
* Passenger Comfort: The second row features “captain’s chairs” with heating, ventilation, and a 22-point full-body massaging “zero-gravity” seat on the right side.
* AI Integration: GWM is leaning heavily into artificial intelligence with “Xiao Wei,” an in-car mascot capable of recognizing a passenger’s emotional state through visual perception and providing “emotional support” via chatbot personas.
* Audio: A premium 31-speaker, 3080W Coffee AI Sound system with Dolby Atmos support.
Intelligence and Safety
The V9X is equipped with a sophisticated sensor suite, including LiDAR, three millimetre-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and 11 cameras. This hardware powers advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as:
* High-speed intelligent navigation on autopilot.
* Autonomous parking with memory functions.
* Active safety features like front and rear cross-traffic assist.
Market Context: The Rise of the “9” Series
The V9X enters a highly specific and competitive niche in the Chinese market. There is a growing trend of ultra-large, electrified SUVs—often identified by a “9” in their name—aiming to capture the premium segment. The V9X will compete directly with models like the Aito M9, BYD Great Tang, and Zeekr 9X.
While GWM has indicated that the V9X is “under consideration” for the Australian market, its arrival would signal a major shift in the local luxury SUV landscape.
Conclusion
The Wey V9X represents GWM’s leap into the high-end luxury tier, leveraging massive battery capacities and advanced AI to compete with global premium brands. It is a vehicle designed to bridge the gap between high-performance driving and high-tech, passenger-centric luxury.
