Four months after introducing its pure electric version, GAC has officially launched the Hyper HT extended-range model, with customer deliveries now underway.

The Hyper HT extended-range variant comes in two trim levels: Pro and Max, priced at $37,200 and $39,900 respectively. Hyper also offers an optional six-seater configuration for an additional $1,380 over the standard five-seat model.

Hyper HT extended-range SUV exterior

As a large family SUV, the Hyper HT follows the current market trend with a 'large battery, small fuel tank' extended-range system. It comes standard with a 60kWh CATL Xianyao Super Hybrid battery, delivering a pure electric range of approximately 217 miles (350 km). For owners who primarily drive in urban environments, daily commutes can be handled solely on electric power.

Hyper HT side profile

Advanced Range-Extender Technology

For its hybrid capabilities, the Hyper HT is equipped with GAC's new 'Xingyuan Extended-Range' technology.

GAC identified three major pain points in current extended-range vehicles when operating with a low battery: high fuel consumption, sluggish power delivery, and excessive noise and vibration. The 'Xingyuan' system was developed to ensure the vehicle maintains 'super efficiency, super power, and super quietness' regardless of the battery's state of charge.

In terms of performance, the Xingyuan technology achieves what GAC claims is the industry's highest electrical conversion efficiency, generating 3.73 kWh per liter of fuel, with the e-drive system's peak efficiency reaching 99%. Even with a depleted battery, the system can maintain a maximum continuous generating power of 85kW. Furthermore, GAC utilizes 'seamless start-stop' and 'imperceptible generation' technologies to minimize engine noise, reducing cabin noise levels to below 34 dB.

Hyper HT range extender unit The range extender unit in the Hyper HT

Specifically, the Hyper HT extended-range model features GAC's fully in-house developed fourth-generation 1.5DHE range extender and a 250kW rear-drive motor. The vehicle's fuel consumption under low battery conditions is rated at 35 mpg (6.7 L/100 km), and it can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 7.5 seconds.

Hyper HT front view

Design and Dimensions

The Hyper HT's exterior design blends crossover elements, combining a traditional SUV front end with a more MPV-like rear section. Its overall dimensions are 5126mm / 1990mm / 1750mm with a 3088mm wheelbase. Both front and rear feature distinctive triple vertical element headlights. The higher-spec model also includes an intelligent interactive lighting system composed of 260 matrix diamond light units, enabling various dynamic light displays for scenarios like welcome greetings and light shows, which can also be customized.

Hyper HT interior dashboard

Interior and Technology

The cabin adopts a wide and low-slung design philosophy. It features an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, dual front and rear 17.3-inch 3K screens, and a 27-inch augmented reality Head-Up Display (HUD). Soft-close doors, welcome light projections for all four doors, and a full-length glass roof are standard across the range.

The Hyper HT is also equipped with the ADIGO 6.0 intelligent cockpit, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip. It supports cloud-integrated AI large language models, Huawei HiCar, Carlink, and Apple CarPlay connectivity, alongside smartphone app remote control functions.

Hyper HT second row seats

In the six-seater version, tailored for multi-generational family travel, the Hyper HT provides second-row zero-gravity seats with enlarged backrests and cushions. These are upholstered in ultra-soft Nappa leather with 20mm zero-pressure slow-rebound padding, and feature 12-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and an 18-point massage function.

Hyper HT driver assistance system

Advanced Driver Assistance

The Hyper HT's driver-assistance system is supplied by Momenta. It utilizes one NVIDIA Orin-X chip, one lidar unit, 11 cameras, 3 millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, totaling 27 intelligent sensors. It supports full-scenario assisted driving including urban and highway Navigated Driving Assist (NDA), enabling features like point-to-point navigation, automatic toll booth passage, parking in extremely tight spaces, and navigating unprotected intersections.

GAC also offers a specialized insurance package tailored for the driver-assistance system. It provides full coverage for accident losses caused by system misjudgment, with users bearing no cost.

Hyper HT safety features

Safety and Build Quality

As a family vehicle, safety is a priority for the Hyper HT. It uses a mixed aluminum and high-strength steel body structure with these materials comprising over 78% of the build. It comes standard with active safety features like full-speed Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and multi-direction AEB. The system enhances camera performance in low-light conditions and improves the visual perception capabilities for functions like Sentry Mode and 360-degree surround view. Its 'Magazine Battery' has undergone extreme tests including nail penetration and 180-degree torsion to ensure no thermal runaway risk under severe conditions.

Hyper HT suspension system

Chassis and Ride Quality

For the chassis, the new model employs a front double-wishbone and rear five-link aluminum suspension setup. It is standard equipped with Smart Damping Control (SDC) and dual-chamber air springs, offering up to 100mm of adjustable ride height. It also features a 'Super Magic Carpet' system that fuses data from cameras and lidar to predict road obstacles and pre-adjust suspension stiffness, reportedly reducing impact sensation by 15%. The Eagle Claw ASTC 2.0 system helps maintain active stability and direction on extreme road surfaces, reducing braking distance on icy roads by 11%.

Hyper HT rear view

Market Position and Outlook

Since its launch in April, the pure electric version of the Hyper HT has sold 1,517 units. While sales of large pure electric SUVs are generally modest, monthly figures in the hundreds are considered underwhelming. This dedicated launch event for the extended-range version is clearly an effort to boost the model's visibility and appeal.

Overall, the Hyper HT's price positions it close to the Li Auto L6, yet it offers a slightly higher equipment level, presenting good value. However, consumer price sensitivity has increased significantly this year. Furthermore, it faces upcoming competition from similarly positioned SUVs like the Galaxy M9 and Leapmotor D series. The Hyper HT is at a disadvantage in terms of brand recognition, sales network, and after-sales service. Breaking through the sales bottleneck will likely require further strategic adjustments.

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