GWM has launched a V8 – and it could come to NZ

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has confirmed the development of a new V8 engine – and while it’s been designed with the global market in mind, it’s not out of the question that New Zealand could eventually see it under the bonnet of a future model.

The engine, in development for more than three years, has undergone both lab and real-world testing. According to Yang Weiqi, general manager of GWM’s right-hand drive division, the V8 hybrid has been engineered to operate largely in EV mode during urban driving, kicking into hybrid mode only when needed – such as during towing or heavy-duty off-roading.

The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 is mated to a plug-in hybrid system that integrates an electric motor within the transmission. While exact power figures are still under wraps, it’s expected to surpass GWM’s current V6 hybrid, which already delivers an impressive 380kW and 800Nm.

GWM sees this approach as a way to overcome one of the challenges of pure electric powertrains in demanding conditions: heat build-up and torque drop-off during sustained loads. “Low-speed, high-torque situations like towing or technical off-roading aren’t ideal for electric motors alone,” Yang explained. “That’s where the V8 comes in.”

Why now? And why V8?

While most manufacturers are moving away from large displacement engines, GWM is doubling down, seeing the V8 hybrid as an opportunity to serve customers whose needs aren’t fully met by current electric offerings.

Yang said customer feedback, particularly in Australia, has driven the decision. “Scenarios like towing boats or caravans are common here but rare in China. We’re designing this engine to suit those conditions.”

While no model has been officially confirmed, GWM has already tested the V8 in specially tuned “Hooke Editions” of the Tank 300 in China. However, the company hinted that the upcoming Tank 700 – which is under right-hand drive development – is more likely long-term homes for the V8.

Yang also suggested that the V8 hybrid system would not be used in the current-generation Cannon Alpha, despite it sharing a platform with the Tank 500 which could get it. A future, larger pickup was hinted at – one designed for the type of heavy-duty work. It was hinted GWM execs have been driving US pickups in Australia for fact-finding. 

US ambitions stalled by tariffs

Industry speculation suggests the V8 – along with the larger pickup – was part of a broader GWM strategy to enter the United States. However, ongoing tariffs under the Trump administration have put those ambitions on ice. Yang confirmed that American-style full-size pickups are “on hold” due to current trade barriers.

Tuned for local conditions

GWM has committed to tailoring vehicle performance for right-hand drive markets. The company recently hired a former Holden ride and handling specialist, with Australian testing already feeding into vehicle calibration for Thailand and beyond. Future GWM vehicles, including V8-equipped models, are expected to benefit from this localised input much earlier in the development process.