Discover how Great Wall Motor’s new 4.0L V8 engine challenges the EV trend at CES 2026 – see specs, tech, and future models. Read more now!
At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Chinese automotive heavyweight Great Wall Motor (GWM) turned heads by unveiling a home‑grown 4.0‑litre V8 engine. While China dominates the global new‑energy vehicle market, GWM is deliberately choosing a different road – one that leans heavily on high‑displacement gasoline power.
Why a V8 Matters in a Growing EV Landscape
China now accounts for more than half of the world’s electric and plug‑in hybrid sales. Most domestic manufacturers are racing toward smaller, electrified powertrains. GWM, however, trails its peers in new‑energy market share (about 30.5% of sales in 2025) and is doubling down on large‑capacity petrol and diesel engines to differentiate its flagship models.
Technical Highlights of the 4.0‑L V8
Engine architecture
The new V8 uses a Miller‑cycle design, twin‑turbocharging, and a front‑mounted water‑cooled charge‑air cooler. A downstream intercooling pipe links the two turbos for compact packaging and rapid spool‑up. An optional fan clutch helps manage oil temperatures during high‑load operation.
Fuel delivery and emissions control
- Dual‑stage injection: 350 bar direct injection paired with a 5.5 bar port (indirect) system.
- Variable‑flow oil pump that adapts to engine load, improving efficiency and reducing carbon buildup.
- Integrated carbon‑management strategy that balances power output with low‑emission targets.
Powertrain integration and hybrid potential
Coupled with GWM’s in‑house 9‑speed automatic gearbox, the V8 features a torque‑converter‑style clutch and a dedicated motor‑generator that can sit between the crankshaft and transmission. This setup enables a mild‑hybrid‑like boost, improving acceleration while trimming fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions.
Planned model rollout
The first vehicle expected to receive the V8 is the off‑road‑oriented Tank 800, a body‑on‑frame SUV that will become the flagship of GWM’s high‑performance line‑up. A sports car prototype—still unnamed—will follow, showcasing the engine’s capabilities on a lighter chassis. GWM is also teasing a retro‑inspired concept drawn from the classic Packard Super 8 One‑Eighty, hinting at a niche luxury direction.
Strategic implications for GWM and the global market
Presenting the engine in the United States—still a passionate market for V8 power—signals GWM’s confidence that there is room for large gasoline engines alongside electrified options. The company also rolled out its Hi4‑Z plug‑in hybrid platform, the Souo S2000 CL motorcycle, the Wey 07 crossover, the Wey G9 minivan, and the Tank 500 off‑roader at CES, underscoring a multi‑powertrain strategy.
By betting on a 500‑horsepower V8 (rumoured power figure from its Shanghai Auto Show debut in April 2025), GWM aims to carve out a premium performance niche while still expanding its electric portfolio.
Stay tuned as GWM prepares to bring this powerhouse to production lines and showrooms worldwide.