Geely launches new i-HEV intelligent hybrid system with 48.41% peak thermal efficiency combustion engine

13 April 2026

Geely's new i-HEV intelligent hybrid technology has been launched globally with a mass-produced new generation BHE series engine that achieves a peak thermal efficiency of 48.41%. This exceeds their previous high of 47.26% announced less than 1 year ago.

To achieve this improvement, Geely’s hybrid “Fire Tornado” combustion system has undergone an iterative upgrade. The engine features a “duckbill” air intake, 1.39 stoke/bore ratio, 15.5 compression ratio, 500 bar peak injection pressure, 150 mJ ignition system and Miller valve timing.

Friction losses have been reduced by 16.3% through precision grinding and polishing, DLC coatings and low viscosity engine oil to contribute a 0.4% increase in the engine’s thermal efficiency.

In the P1+P3 hybrid system, the engine only operates in the high efficiency zone.

The powertrain will debut in the new Xingrui i-HEV sedan and Xingyue L i-HEV SUV models. This system marks the world’s first integration of the Xingrui AI Cloud Power 2.0T. The Xingrui i-HEV achieves a WLTC fuel consumption rate as low as 3.98 L/100 km.

In expressway driving on the Hainen Island Ring Expressway, the Xingrui achieved 2.2 L/100 km (12% better than a Toyota Prius) and the Xingyue 2.58 L/100 km.

The powertrain was developed in collaboration with Haosi Power.

Source: China Car News