In a major feat, the Jetour Zongheng G700 recently crossed approximately 0.75 miles of the Yangtze River, navigating currents between 3 and 6 mph. Throughout the crossing, the SUV stayed stable on the water, moving at an average speed of about 4.3 mph before reaching the Nanlong Ferry Terminal.
The vehicle’s ability to handle the river was supported by several technical features. Its seamless, hole-free painted body helped prevent water entry, while an active air circulation system and an 800V high-voltage silicon carbide propulsion system provided reliable power.
A 6-axis gyroscope continuously adjusted the SUV’s balance, ensuring stability and control during the entire water journey.
Combining off-road capability with hybrid power
The Zongheng G700 is a large luxury hybrid SUV built for both on- and off-road driving. It is powered by a 2.0TD hybrid-specific engine producing 208 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque, with a thermal efficiency of 45.5%.
Built on an 800V architecture, the SUV features a 2-speed DHT hybrid transmission, a 4C dual-layer battery system, and a 2-speed P4 electric motor. Together, these systems generate a total output of 751 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, allowing the vehicle to travel up to 870 miles on a single tank.
Earlier this month, Li Xueyong, Chery’s vice-president, shared a video showing the Zongheng G700 navigating calm lake waters. The Yangtze River, however, presented a far greater test – with an average width of 0.75 miles and depths ranging from 49 to 66 feet, the river features currents exceeding 3 mph and unpredictable turbulence beneath its surface.
In a market long led by Western companies such as US-based WaterCar, maker of the Panther amphibious jeep capable of over 43 mph on water, the G700’s successful Yangtze crossing marks a significant step forward. As a mass-produced vehicle, it now sets a new benchmark for civilian amphibious technology.
Jetour G700 secures 10,000 pre-orders
Equipped with Huawei’s intelligent driving system, the Jetour G700 is generating significant attention, having already secured over 10,000 pre-orders. While conventional off-road vehicles continue to focus on hill-climbing performance, the G700 has demonstrated a unique “river crossing” capability.
Furthermore, Chery Automobile reported strong sales in the first three quarters, moving 2 million vehicles, including 936,000 units exported. The company has surpassed 100,000 exported vehicles per month for five consecutive months, reinforcing its status as China’s leading automotive exporter.
Last month, Chery Automobile saw its shares rise 11.2% as it began trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange following a $1.2 billion IPO. Known for its Chery, Jetour, and iCAR brands, the company is tapping investor interest while expanding in the competitive electric and smart vehicle market.
The IPO, the largest in Hong Kong this year, drew cornerstone investor subscriptions of up to $587 million, with Chery planning to use 35% of the proceeds for research and development across its passenger vehicle lineup and to further expand its product portfolio.
