Upcoming NEV models from Chinese legacy automakers' brands to watch in 2025

As China's new energy vehicle (NEV) market continues to bloom, a slew of new NEV models is set to be launched in 2025. Several NEV brands incubated by established carmakers such as Changan Automobile's AVATR, GAC Group's AION, Geely's ZEEKR, and SAIC Motor's IM Motor will introduce multiple reliable choices to the market.

In 2025, these brands are set to launch a variety of exciting new models and introduce a diverse lineup, ranging from battery-electric vehicle (BEV) to range-extended vehicle (REEV) models, and covering body styles such as shooting brakes, large seven-seaters, and MPVs, catering to a wide range of market segments.

AVATR from Changan Automobile

Model: AVATR 06  

Segment: Mid-size sedan  

Powertrain: BEV & REEV

As the fourth model under the AVATR brand, the AVATR 06 is expected to hit the market in the second quarter of 2025.

Photo credit: AVATR

Positioned as a mid-size sedan, the AVATR 06 will offer both pure electric and range-extended powertrains—with the BEV version built on a full-domain 800V high-voltage platform.

Photo credit: AVATR

As with all AVATR models, its refined design remains one of its most distinguishable traits. Featuring dual-layer headlamps, a two-tone body, and a double-layer rear spoiler, the AVATR 06 stands out from every angle. In terms of dimensions, the model measures 4,855mm in length, 1,960mm in width, and 1,450mm in height, with a wheelbase identical to that of the AVATR 07 at 2,940mm.

Based on currently available information, the AVATR 06 is likely to continue the cost-effective strategy seen with the AVATR 07, with the entry-level variant potentially priced at the 200,000-yuan level.

HYPTEC from GAC Group

Model: HYPTEC HL

Positioning: Mid-to-large SUV

Powertrain: BEV & REEV

The HYPTEC HL is the fourth model since the brand's inception as well. It targets the high-end large 6-seater SUV market. In terms of size, the new vehicle measures 5,126mm in length, 1,990mm in width, and 1,730mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,088mm.  

Photo credit: HYPTEC

Compared to the existing HYPTEC GT and HT models, the HYPTEC HL not only adopts a more refined design but also undergoes a significant adjustment in its features. For instance, the HYPTEC HL no longer offers scissor-styled doors in the front or gull-wing doors in the rear, opting instead for more conventional door designs. However, the HYPTEC HL places a strong emphasis on comfort and intelligence aspects.

Photo credit: HYPTEC

The new model, for example, features two zero-gravity seats in the second row, supporting 18-point massage and 12-way power adjustments. Additionally, the HYPTEC HL will be equipped with solid-state, variable-focus LiDAR as a standard feature across its lineup. The model will also feature the latest NDA 4.0 intelligent driving system.

Photo credit: HYPTEC

Notably, aside from the BEV version which has already been submitted for regulatory approval to China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the HYPTEC HL will also be the first model in the brand's portfolio to feature a range-extender powertrain.

ZEEKR from Geely Automobile

Model: ZEEKR 007 GT

Positioning: Shooting brake

Powertrain: BEV

As a derivative model of the existing ZEEKR 007 and the brand's second shooting brake, the ZEEKR 007 GT is expected to be released onto the market in the second quarter of 2025.

Photo credit: ZEEKR

Based on currently available information, its dimensions remain nearly identical to the ZEEKR 007, measuring 4,864mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,460mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,925mm.  

While enhancing aesthetics, the ZEEKR 007 GT also benefits from a more practical trunk space and improved rear headroom—both inherent advantages of shooting brakes.  

Photo credit: ZEEKR

According to information released by the MIIT, the ZEEKR 007 GT will offer a single-motor rear-wheel-drive version and a dual-motor four-wheel-drive version. The former churns out a maximum power of 310kW, while the latter offers a peak combined power of 475kW.

Beyond the ZEEKR 007 GT, the brand has two other major products planned for 2025.  

The first is a mid-to-large SUV, code-named DX1E, while the second is a full-size SUV, code-named EX1E. Compared to the ZEEKR 7X, these upcoming SUVs will not only be larger and positioned higher in the market, but will also be the first to feature the brand's self-developed "Super Electric Hybrid" powertrain.

DENZA from BYD

Model: N9

Positioning: Full-size SUV

Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)

From pop-up appearances on the streets of London to making its debut at the Auto Guangzhou 2024, the DENZA N9, which is set to hit the market in the first quarter of this year, has already been making waves online for multiple times since the second half of 2024.  

DENZA N9; photo credit: DENZA

As a full-size SUV, the DENZA N9 boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 5,258mm in length, 2,030mm in width, and 1,830mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,125mm.  

In terms of power, the new model will offer both BEV and PHEV options, and it will be powered by BYD's latest e³ technology. Which means, the DENZA N9 will feature functions similar to the Z9 GT, including in-place U-turn, intelligent crab walk, and e³ parking.  

Additionally, according to information from the MIIT, the DENZA N9 will also offer a special edition with a drone cabin.  

There are rumors that the SUPER 9 model under BYD's FANGCHENGBAO brand, which made its debut at the Auto China 2024 in Beijing, will be integrated into the DENZA brand, becoming the latter's first sports car product. Currently, the test vehicles for the new model have already started road testing, with an official debut expected in 2025.

IM Motors from SAIC Motor

Model: IM LS6 REEV

Positioning: Mid-to-large SUV

Powertrain: REEV

One of the most notable developments for IM Motors in 2025 will be the introduction of products running on range-extended powertrain. As the brand's core sellers, the IM LS6 and L6 are likely to be the first to mark this milestone.

LS6; photo credit: IM Motors

Moreover, rumors suggest that IM Motors plans to launch an entirely new REEV model in 2025.  

Additionally, the latest edition of the IM L6 has already been registered with the MIIT. Aside from minor front-end design tweaks, a new variant without LiDAR has been added. Meanwhile, the IM L6 Max Lightyear Edition, featuring a solid-state battery—unveiled last year but yet to be released onto the market—could finally make its official debut in 2025.