Chinese automakers are adding petrol generators, known as range extenders, to their EVs to boost driving range.

At Auto Shanghai, BYD’s Yangwang U8 SUV and Chery’s Exeed ET were showcased, both capable of exceeding 1,000 kilometers with this technology.

Range extenders power the battery without driving the wheels, allowing vehicles to operate in fully electric mode while using petrol.

Extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) gained popularity in China last year, with over one million units sold, accounting for 6% of the market, according to McKinsey.

EREVs are attracting global interest. Stellantis plans to release an EREV version of its Ram 1500 pickup in the US. Volkswagen unveiled an EREV SUV at Auto Shanghai and is developing an EREV Scout pickup.

EREVs are seen as a transitional solution, addressing range concerns while emitting less pollution if charged properly.

🔗 Source: Agence France-Presse

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Range extenders’ revival represents a historical technology cycle, not a new invention

Chinese automakers aren’t inventing new technology with range extenders but reviving a concept that Western manufacturers explored over a decade ago.

Volvo was testing electric vehicles with range extenders back in 2011, developing three different technical concepts that could add up to 1,000 km of range to their vehicles 1.

The original Chevrolet Volt, introduced around 2010-2011, pioneered the commercial implementation of this technology as the first extended-range electric vehicle to hit the market 2.

These earlier attempts at range extender technology faced challenges including cost, efficiency, and market positioning, causing many manufacturers to shift focus toward pure electric vehicles instead.

The current Chinese revival represents a technological cycle where a previously sidelined approach finds new relevance in a market still struggling with charging infrastructure limitations.

2️⃣ Regional policy differences are creating divergent electric vehicle technology paths

The rapid adoption of EREVs in China (reaching 6% market share) contrasts sharply with Europe’s regulatory approach that plans to eliminate new combustion engines by 2035.