Chinese automaker Dongfeng has launched the Aeolus L8, a powerful plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that sets new benchmarks in long-distance travel. With its Mach Electric Hybrid system, the car pairs a 1.5L turbo engine, an electric motor, and a 30.3 kWh battery, producing 355 HP.
Under CLTC standards, the L8 is rated for 126–185 km of all-electric range. But testing by CATARC revealed much higher performance—248 km on battery alone and an extraordinary 2,245 km total range. This puts the L8 ahead of most plug-in hybrids globally, making it capable of completing long-haul trips like Karachi to Islamabad on a single charge and tank.
The L8’s efficiency was recorded at 41.66 km/l, while 3C fast charging enables 20–80% recharge in only 18 minutes. Inside, the SUV comes with 28 advanced driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, automatic braking, and smart parking assistance.
Safety is ensured with six airbags and a digital rearview mirror, while AI-powered features are integrated through DeepSeek and ByteDance’s Doubao platforms.
Dongfeng plans to roll out the Aeolus L8 to international markets, including the Middle East and South America, with future EV plans focused on solid-state batteries by 2026 offering 1,000+ km ranges.