SAIC-GM's Buick launches 'Zhen Long' range-extended electric drive system

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 7, SAIC-GM's Buick brand officially launched its new "Zhen Long" range-extended electric drive system. Developed under the automaker's Xiao Yao Architecture, the advanced powertrain will first appear on the upcoming Buick Electra L7, signaling a major step forward in Buick's electrification strategy in China.

At the heart of the Zhen Long system is a single electric drive unit claimed to deliver the highest power output in its class—up to 252 kW—enabling the Electra L7 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds when fully charged.

The system is supported by a high-performance Ultium 2.0 battery specifically designed for REEV (range-extended electric vehicle) applications. At full charge, it can discharge at a peak of 315 kW (9C), while still providing 260 kW (7.8C) output in low-charge scenarios—fully meeting the motor’s power demands even when the battery is depleted.

The Zhen Long system also includes a 1.5T high-efficiency hybrid-dedicated engine, generating 115 kW of rated power and 230 Nm of peak torque. This engine is paired with a 100 kW generator to ensure consistent power delivery. Buick says the Electra L7 shows less than 0.1 seconds’ difference in acceleration or overtaking performance, whether the battery is full or depleted.

To address a wide range of real-world driving conditions, Buick has integrated COOLGRID thermal management, a proprietary system covered by 31 patents. The system is built to endure extreme conditions such as high-altitude climbs, prolonged high-speed travel, and both hot and sub-zero environments—ensuring the Zhen Long powertrain remains stable and efficient under high load.

Buick has also placed emphasis on noise reduction, incorporating Silentium NVH technology. By optimizing noise sources, transmission paths, and control logic, the Zhen Long system reduces engine start-up noise to under 0.5dB—improving cabin comfort and enhancing the overall driving experience.

In terms of real-world performance, the Electra L7 powered by the Zhen Long system boasts 302 kilometers of battery-powered range and just 0.5L of fuel consumption per 100 kilometers in hybrid mode. With a combined range exceeding 1,400 kilometers, the dual-power setup—gasoline and electric—addresses common EV concerns over long-distance usability and charging infrastructure.

The Electra L7 is also equipped with a 40.2 kWh Ultium battery supporting 130 kW fast charging, which enables a 30% to 80% charge in just 18 minutes. With an impressive energy density of 3.6 kWh per liter, the battery can store up to 252 kWh of energy. It also features 6 kW V2L (vehicle-to-load) output, catering to users with outdoor or auxiliary power needs.