This New EV Can Go from Karachi to Islamabad Without a Refill

Dongfeng has launched the Aeolus L8, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powered by the company’s Mach Electric Hybrid system. The setup includes a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, an electric motor, and a 30.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, delivering a combined output of 355 horsepower.

Range and Testing

Under CLTC standards, the Aeolus L8 offers two official all-electric driving ranges: 126 kilometers and 185 kilometers, depending on configuration. In independent testing conducted by the China Automotive Technology & Research Center (CATARC), the vehicle achieved an all-electric range of 248 kilometers and a total driving range of 2,245 kilometers, placing it among the longest-range plug-in hybrids available.

Charging and Efficiency

The Aeolus L8 recorded a fuel efficiency of approximately 41.66 kilometers per liter in CATARC tests. The vehicle supports 3C fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in around 18 minutes, under optimal conditions.

According to official specifications, the vehicle supports 28 Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functions. These include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keeping assist
• Automatic emergency braking
• Traffic sign recognition
• Parking assistance

Safety equipment includes six airbags and a digital rearview mirror. The cabin features a digital interface supported by a built-in voice assistant, powered by AI models from DeepSeek and ByteDance’s Doubao.

Dongfeng plans to introduce the Aeolus L8 in international markets, including the Middle East and South America. Originally launched under the Fengshen brand in 2009, the Aeolus division now offers both sedans and SUVs tailored for general consumers.

Dongfeng has also announced its intention to release solid-state battery electric vehicles by 2026, targeting ranges of over 1,000 kilometers and improved battery safety.