Great Wall Motors is set to introduce the Wey 80 hybrid minivan to the Russian market, according to reports cited by Chinese automotive publication Chinese Cars with references to official sources. The rollout marks a notable expansion for Wey in a market that has shown growing interest in hybrid and electric family vehicles.
The Wey 80 will be offered in two configurations to accommodate different family sizes and space needs. The standard seven-seat configuration emphasizes compact efficiency, while an extended six-seat layout focuses on premium interior comfort and flexible seating arrangements. The larger seven-seat version measures 5045 mm in length, 1960 mm in width, and 1900 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3085 mm. In contrast, the longer six-seat variant stretches to 5405 mm in length, shares the same width, and stands at 1890 mm in height, with an extended wheelbase of 3275 mm. These dimensions suggest a practical balance between interior capacity and road footprint, aiming to attract both family buyers and corporate shuttle fleets. The two configurations align with Wey’s strategy to offer versatile multi-purpose vehicles that can adapt to evolving consumer needs in Russia and neighboring markets.
The standard Wey 80 is powered by a hybrid drivetrain that combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged combustion engine with two electric motors, delivering a total system output of 156 horsepower. The top-tier version follows a similar hybrid architecture but upgrades the output with a more powerful gasoline engine rated at around 170 horsepower, paired with the same dual-motor hybrid setup. This approach prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing the ability to perform confidently on longer highway drives, a feature that resonates with buyers seeking both fuel economy and steady urban versatility.
Industry observers anticipate the Wey 80 to arrive in Russia as early as November, aligning with a broader push by Great Wall Motors to broaden its footprint in the region. The anticipated launch comes as Chinese brands continue to gain traction in Russia, driven by competitive pricing, value-rich feature sets, and a growing network of service and warranty support designed to bolster buyer confidence across the country. Local availability will likely be reinforced by strategic dealership networks and after-sales programs that emphasize reliability and convenient maintenance options for hybrid vehicles.
Prior to this model introduction, Great Wall Motors announced the formal entry of two Wey models into the Russian market. One is the Wey 07 crossover, a compact SUV with design cues reminiscent of the Lixang L9 and noted for its appeal to Russian buyers who favor bold styling combined with practical dimensions. The Wey 07 uses a parallel drivetrain arrangement where the internal combustion engine is mechanically linked to the drive wheels, a configuration that offers a certain driving feel and responsiveness that enthusiasts often associate with traditional powertrains. The power output for the Wey 07 is estimated within a broad range, approximately 400 to 500 horsepower, reflecting the performance-oriented variants that aim to satisfy drivers who want stronger acceleration profiles in addition to everyday usability.
Additionally, the Russian market has recently welcomed the Lixiang Mega minivan, a futuristic model that has drawn attention for its dual electric motors delivering substantial total output. The Mega demonstrates a bold approach to electric family transport, with a hefty curb weight and rapid acceleration performance, underscoring the segment’s push toward high-torque electric propulsion to meet urban and highway demands alike. This model’s presence signals a broader trend among Great Wall Motors and allied brands to diversify offerings in the passenger van and multi-passenger categories, appealing to both private owners and commercial fleets seeking modern, multi-seat solutions with robust electric capabilities.
Meanwhile, the Exeed line, another component of Great Wall Motors’ portfolio, has begun to gain traction in Russia with updated crossover variants. Exeed models bring a premium positioning to the brand family, often featuring more refined interiors and advanced driver-assistance technologies, which align with the expectations of urban Russian buyers who value comfort, technology, and safety in equal measure. This broader product strategy illustrates how the manufacturer is aiming to balance price-conscious options with higher-end offerings, ensuring there is a Wey and Exeed model to meet a wide range of consumer preferences and budgets in the region.