The BJ30e presents a combination of different operational philosophies. It embraces the use of an internal combustion engine, but not primarily to drive the front wheels. Instead, it defaults to a more power generator mode like electric vehicles using a range extender. The concept is the best of both worlds, with the battery operation the main focus, with occasional interaction with the petrol-powered side of the equation.

EXTERIOR

The BAIC BJ30e is an SUV following all the modern trends to attract buyers; it ticks all the boxes. Square rugged muscular styling, tick. Black plastic trim on the wheel arches and lower section of the vehicle, tick. Distinctive front fascia, tick. In this case, it’s a series of wrap-around LED Daytime Running Lights that blend into the main headlights. Standard 19-inch wheels round off the visual package. One way to describe the BJ30e look is retro-future.

INTERIOR

In a further bid to set itself apart from the crowded SUV market, the BJ30e handles approach in a manner similar to its different drivetrain. Get close and open the BAIC, and there are the traditional branded puddle lamps. The entire front grille illuminates, presenting an animated display sequence, completed by light from the tops of the wheel arches, instead of the normal lit door handles.

Once inside, the benefit of a mostly EV construction is evident. The 2820mm wheelbase gives it expansive interior space and storage for a vehicle of its dimensions. There is a panoramic sunroof for an even greater sense of interior volume.

There are soft-touch materials at the key contact points. Controls are relatively simple and left to a minimum, as is the overall design theme. The large majority of access to vehicle features is reserved for the 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. Drivers have a 10.25-inch instrument cluster for themselves, while occupants can connect via the usual suspects, USB, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay, to name a few options. Main functions are powered, like the front seats; others can be automated, such as the wipers or the dual-zone climate control. And, yes, it is left-hand drive.

ON THE ROAD

To understand how the BJ30e drives, exploration of the drivetrain and its operational behaviour is a must. Underneath the BAIC, in all-wheel drive trim, are two electric motors, fore and aft. These are supported by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. Total system output is stated at 403bhp and 505lb/ft of torque.

That said, the BJ30e prioritises its electric-only mode when driven. It will do its utmost to avoid engaging the engine to drive the front wheels. Instead, the engine acts primarily as a generator, recharging the battery as necessary. Braking and coasting are also used to regenerate energy. On the rare occasion that the engine is used for actual motivation it requires a specific set of parameters, such as when acceleration demands outstrip the available power from the battery.

The other element that the BAIC prioritises is comfort. As it spends a significant amount of its driving time as an EV, the BJ30e is very smooth and comfortable. Dynamically, it drives as with the average of its class rivals. Otherwise, operating in relative silence, doing its SUV business with someone at the wheel or using its safety and driver assist systems.

There are some off-road chops, as BAIC states 215mm of ground clearance, approach, departure, and breakover angles of 24.5, 30, and 21, respectively. There is even a front skid plate included for those who dare to tread off-road.

The all-wheel drive BAIC BJ30e uses two electric motors, fore and aft, supported by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that is primarily used as a power generator/range extender. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The 2820mm wheelbase of the BAIC BJ30e gives it expansive interior space and storage for a vehicle of its dimensions. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The BAIC BJ30e ticks all the SUV modern trend boxes to attract buyers. (Photo: Rory Daley)

The BAIC BJ30e prioritises comfort.(Photo: Rory Daley)