Great Wall Motor (GWM) has released official images of its upcoming flagship SUV, currently identified by the codename HX. This full-size, three-row crossover marks a significant step in Haval’s evolution, moving toward more sophisticated electrification and autonomous driving capabilities. While the official production name remains under wraps until April 10, the preview reveals a vehicle designed to compete at the top tier of the global SUV market.
Design and Architecture: A Rugged Aesthetic
The Haval HX adopts a “blocky,” commanding silhouette characterized by a flat roofline and sculpted fenders, signaling a more robust identity than previous urban-focused crossovers.
Key design elements include:
– Front Profile: Large rectangular headlights, a slim grille, and an expansive air intake for improved cooling.
– Utility Features: Traditional door handles, multi-sp spoke chrome rims, and protective plastic cladding around the lower body.
– Rear Configuration: A classic swing-out tailgate equipped with a full-size spare wheel, suggesting a design influenced by traditional off-roaders.
Underneath the bodywork, the HX is built on the GWM One modular architecture. This highly versatile platform is a strategic asset for GWM, as it is designed to support five distinct powertrain types: Internal Combustion (ICE), Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), Hybrid (HEV), Battery Electric (BEV), and Fuel Cell Electric (FCEV).
Advanced Powertrain and Performance
The specific technical specifications for the HX have not been finalized, but the revealed model utilizes the Hi4-Z dual-motor setup.
This plug-in hybrid system is part of a broader technological trend within GWM to move toward high-voltage efficiency. For context, other vehicles on the GWM One platform utilize 800V high-voltage systems and powerful rear electric motors capable of producing up to 300 kW (402 hp). Given its flagship status, the HX is expected to be larger than the current second-generation Haval H9, which measures 4,950 mm in length.
Intelligence and Autonomous Capabilities
One of the most significant upgrades in the HX is its integration of GWM’s latest assisted driving technology. The vehicle utilizes the VLA (Vision, Language, Action) model, a sophisticated AI framework previously seen in the Wey 07 (Lanshan).
This system enables several high-end features:
– Navigate On Autopilot (NOA): Providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities on both highways and complex urban roads.
– Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Including automated parking functions.
– Hardware Integration: The presence of a LiDAR sensor on the roof confirms the vehicle’s reliance on high-precision sensors to navigate its environment safely.
Global Market Implications
Haval has established a strong international presence, with significant market shares in regions such as Australia and South Africa. The introduction of the HX suggests that GWM is looking to elevate the Haval brand from a provider of value-driven SUVs to a competitor in the premium, high-tech flagship segment.
The HX represents Haval’s transition toward a “tech-first” identity, combining large-format SUV utility with cutting-edge AI and hybrid efficiency.
The upcoming official reveal on April 10 will confirm whether this model will serve as the new global benchmark for the Haval brand.
