Skywell, the Chinese automotive brand, has begun sales of its HT-i hybrid crossover in Russia, according to the company’s official press service. The model is priced starting at 3.99 million rubles and is aimed at buyers who want a practical family crossover with hybrid efficiency. The HT-i’s size and layout emphasize space for everyday use, with intention to appeal to families and commuters in markets across North America as well as Europe, where hybrid crossovers are increasingly popular among buyers who value efficiency without sacrificing interior room.
Its exterior dimensions define a substantial footprint: 4720 mm in length, 1908 mm in width, and 1701 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2800 mm. The hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine producing 103 horsepower with a 177-horsepower electric motor. This pairing delivers a balanced blend of petrol performance and electric assist for daily driving in urban environments and on mixed-road journeys. In its base configuration, the HT-i accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 170 km/h. This setup is designed to provide a brisk response for highway overtakes while preserving fuel savings in city commutes, a combination that resonates with North American drivers who value practicality and efficiency.
Standard equipment emphasizes comfort and convenience. The HT-i features light and rain sensors, an electric tailgate with hands-free access, and a panoramic roof that visually enlarges the cabin. Climate control and an eight-speaker audio system contribute to a comfortable in-car experience, while heated front seats add warmth during cooler days. In terms of safety, the vehicle offers two airbags, a rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines, front and rear parking sensors, and a driver fatigue monitoring system. These components collectively aim at providing a secure and relaxed driving experience. The inclusion of these features aligns with the expectations of many midsize SUV buyers who prioritise modern conveniences alongside practical safety technology, as reported by Skywell.
In Russia, Skywell has previously introduced the ET5 electric crossover in a Luxury+ configuration, signaling the brand’s broader push toward electrified options to cater to varying preferences and budgets. The HT-i’s hybrid approach complements this lineup by offering a traditional engine setup paired with electric assistance, appealing to customers who want the benefits of electric propulsion without depending on charging infrastructure. This strategy mirrors market trends seen in North America, where automakers increasingly offer hybrid variants to address evolving demand, blend fuel efficiency with familiar driving dynamics, and provide a transitional path toward broader electrification. The information about these products reflects Skywell’s ongoing efforts to diversify its powertrain options for different ownership models and budgets.
Industry observers describe the HT-i as a practical family crossover. The combination of a roomy interior, thoughtful tech features, and a reasonable price point could attract buyers weighing crossovers in the mid-size segment. The vehicle’s balance of performance and efficiency—7.9 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 170 km/h—suggests it can handle everyday driving with adequate acceleration for highway merging while delivering favorable fuel economy through its hybrid system. For markets in Canada and the United States, such a model may appeal to consumers seeking a versatile crossover with a hybrid powertrain that lowers running costs without sacrificing overall utility. Skywell’s plan to expand connectivity and accessibility in North America aligns with consumer expectations for modern vehicles that blend convenience, safety, and reliability.
Skywell’s broader product strategy appears focused on accessibility and modern connectivity, while keeping safety at the forefront through standard driver assistance and monitoring systems. The HT-i’s pricing and feature set indicate the brand’s intent to offer a well-rounded option in the crowded hybrid crossover segment, competing with established players that already emphasize efficiency, comfort, and technology. As with all new introductions, potential buyers in North American markets will consider service networks, warranty coverage, and ongoing aftersales support as part of the overall ownership experience. The North American roadmap suggests a commitment to building a service and parts network capable of supporting hybrid and traditional powertrains alike, along with remote diagnostics and quick-repair options to minimize downtime for owners.
The company’s announcement highlights a broader trend toward diversified powertrains in the global crossover market. Hybrids that deliver real-world efficiency while maintaining interior space and comfort meet growing consumer expectations. The HT-i’s presence in the Russian market, together with the existing ET5 electric crossover, illustrates Skywell’s attempt to broaden its footprint by offering choices that appeal to different ownership preferences. For readers evaluating hybrid crossovers, the HT-i presents a compelling option to consider, particularly for those who value everyday practicality, advanced safety features, and a contemporary cabin experience. The model stands as part of a broader strategy to respond to demand for flexible, cost-conscious, and technologically equipped vehicles across North America, while staying mindful of service and support needs for new markets.