Great Wall Motors Readies 1,200-HP Plug-In Hybrid Supercar to Challenge Ferrari SF90

Chinese automaker Great Wall Motors (GWM) is gearing up to launch a new plug-in hybrid supercar aimed at competing with the Ferrari SF90. Scheduled for a 2027 debut, the model promises more than 1,200 horsepower from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 combined with electric motors, signaling GWM’s serious intent to enter the high-performance supercar market.

Direct Comparison with Ferrari SF90 on Test Track

GWM’s president Wei Jianjun recently shared footage from a test session featuring the Ferrari SF90 alongside the upcoming Chinese supercar, which remains deliberately obscured to keep its design secret. In a rare admission, Wei acknowledged that the GWM supercar still trails Ferrari in overall performance. Despite this, he emphasized ongoing efforts to close the gap ahead of the vehicle’s launch.

Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain Aims Beyond 1,200 HP

The new supercar is built around GWM’s own 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a plug-in hybrid setup. This combination, developed under GWM’s GF performance architecture suited for road and GT3 racing, targets an output exceeding 1,200 HP—surpassing Ferrari SF90 Stradale’s 1,000 HP. Final performance figures and details remain unconfirmed, leaving questions about how this power will translate on the track.

Development Challenges and Aggressive Positioning

GWM’s effort to create this supercar began roughly five years ago, with particular challenges in developing lightweight carbon-fiber interior components. Cost control is another key issue, as reports suggest the retail price might be around one million yuan (about €140,000). This would place it far below Ferrari’s pricing, setting it up as a more accessible alternative in the supercar segment. However, no official price has been announced yet.

Launch Timeline and Market Ambitions

The supercar could be unveiled by the end of 2026, with sales starting in 2027. GWM, primarily known for SUVs and pickups, is clearly aiming to take on established European supercar makers by combining a traditional V8 engine with electrification. Following the electrically focused BYD Yangwang U9, GWM’s model offers a different recipe with its plug-in hybrid approach.

While GWM’s president admits that the car still needs refinement, the project appears close to reaching its next stage. Whether the Chinese supercar can compete with Ferrari’s benchmarks in real-world performance remains to be seen, but its planned power and price position will make it an interesting addition to the market.

Source: italpassion.fr