At its recent model launch event in Santiago, Chile, Omoda | Jaecoo used the opportunity to highlight its key technology, the Super Hybrid System (SHS).

It’s applied in two variations to the Omoda | Jaecoo line-up, SHS-H, and SHS-P.

The first component of SHS is the 1.5TGDI DHE internal combustion engine. (Photo: Rory Daley)

“Super Hybrid System is a future hybrid technology solution developed by CHERY GROUP, adapted to meet the diverse needs of the international markets. It has two clear technological development paths, PHEV and HEV, combining fuel power and a pure electric-like comfortable driving experience,” Dr Yan, hybrid powertrain – chief engineer, Omoda | Jaecoo, told the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto magazine.

SHS-H is a hybrid application where the battery is recharged by the vehicle. It plays into what the brand calls, One Car Two Vibes. Models designated SHS-H have 1,000 kilometres of combined range, while delivering an electric vehicle-like experience, being smooth and quick.

SHS is available across the Omoda | Jaecoo model range in two versions — SHS-H for hybrid and SHS-P for plug-in hybrid.(Photo: Rory Daley)

SHS-P is the plug-in hybrid version of the technology, so, in addition to being recharged while driven, the battery can be charged externally using AC and DC fast charging. Further benefits are 1,200 kilometres of range, 90 kilometres of electric-only range, and higher performance with over 200bhp on tap, depending on model.

“It took us around three years to develop and build the Super Hybrid System,” said Dr Yan. He and his team of around 500 decided that the path forward for SHS was to look at the components of a hybrid system, maximise them, and engineer out their shortcomings. The end result is three main elements that make up SHS — the internal combustion motor, the electric motors, and the battery technology.

“There were so many variables, so we had to select the best ones for the individual components of the system,” he explained.

Omoda | Jaecoo had the Super Hybrid System on display at their LATAM Super Hybrid Experience in Santiago, Chile, on May 26 through 27. (Photo: Rory Daley)

SHS begins with the 1.5TGDI DHE internal combustion engine. Now in its fifth generation, this turbocharged 1.5-ltre is bursting with technology from its four cylinders. It uses the more thermally efficient Miller cycle, i-HEC (Intelligent High-Efficiency Combustion system), HTC (High-Efficiency Turbocharging), i-LS (Intelligent Lubrication), HiDS (High Dilution System), and i-HTM (Intelligent Thermal Management) to create an engine with a 44.5 per cent thermal efficiency. This is higher than the industry standard of 40 per cent. By itself, it makes 140bhp and 159lb/ft of torque.

The next part of SHS is the DH (Dedicated Hybrid) Transmission. This transmission is able to achieve 98.5 per cent EV efficiency as the electric motor is integrated into the transmission. The DHT has three gears and is programmed to be able to switch between electric and fuel drive based on the specific scenario the vehicle is facing in real time. It outputs 201bhp and 229lb/ft. SHS-P uses a 3DHT, which has three gears. The system supports all-wheel drive, becoming SHS-P AWD, further extending range and performance.

Dr Yan, hybrid powertrain – chief engineer, Omoda | Jaecoo (Photo: Rory Daley)

Then there is the battery. Regardless of energy capacity, SHS utilises the same hybrid battery pack, a lithium iron phosphate unit with high safety protection, physically and electronically. It will accept charging rates up to 40kWh and will never fall under 20 per cent.

While SHS currently meets the targets as set by Omoda | Jaecoo, Dr Yan and his team handle SHS as an ongoing technology where they monitor and receive feedback for future updates.