GWM Malaysia has handed over a GWM WEY G9 Hi4 PHEV to the Ministry of Finance (MOF), where it will take part in a Proof of Concept (POC) evaluation programme in collaboration with SPANCO Sdn. Bhd.
The programme gives GWM a chance to put the WEY G9’s plug-in hybrid system through real-world fleet use, while also taking another step towards its localisation plans in Malaysia.
The WEY G9 uses GWM’s Hi4, or Hybrid Intelligent 4WD, powertrain. The system combines an internal combustion engine with electric motors on both the front and rear axles, allowing the vehicle to switch between different combinations of petrol and electric power depending on the driving conditions.
One of the key parts of the system is its Intelligent Torque Vectoring Control (iTVC), which can adjust torque between the front and rear axles in as little as 10 milliseconds. This helps the vehicle maintain traction and stability, particularly when cornering or driving on slippery surfaces.
GWM currently offers several versions of its Hi4 technology. The standard Hi4 system is designed mainly for urban and crossover SUVs, while Hi4-T is aimed at more rugged models such as the Tank 300, Tank 400 and Tank 500.
There is also Hi4-Z, a higher-performance version designed for luxury and performance-oriented models. It uses a larger battery of around 59 kWh and can deliver more than 800 hp, along with over 200 km of pure electric range depending on the application.
For the WEY G9, the idea behind Hi4 is pretty straightforward — combine the efficiency of a hybrid with the added traction and performance of all-wheel drive.
GWM Malaysia also thanked YBhg. Datuk Alan bin Abdul Rahim, Undersecretary of the Public Asset Management Division (PAM), for receiving the vehicle, as well as MOF and SPANCO for the opportunity to take part in the POC programme.
