Chinese automakers' hybrid SUV overseas expansions

In late July 2026, Chinese carmaker Jetour unveiled its T2 XWD 4×4 plug‑in hybrid SUV in Brazil, highlighting a 597 hp powertrain, a 43.24 kWh battery—the largest for plug‑in hybrids in the country—and an all‑wheel‑drive system that distributes torque automatically. The launch was supported by a national advertising campaign titled “Adventure without Limits,” which aired on television, streaming platforms and during the Libertadores broadcast.

Around the same time, BYD’s midsize Atto 2 SUV was photographed undergoing road tests in India, revealing a design matching the international specification. The model is offered in both full‑electric and plug‑in hybrid variants, with a 1.5‑litre gasoline engine paired with an electric motor delivering roughly 190‑200 hp and a WLTP‑rated range up to 1,000 km. BYD subsequently introduced the Atto 2 in Brunei, presenting it as an affordable sub‑compact plug‑in hybrid SUV featuring the brand’s Dragon Face design language, digital cockpit, and NFC keyless entry.

Both events illustrate a broader strategy by Chinese manufacturers to expand the global footprint of their new‑energy SUV line‑ups, targeting diverse markets in South America, South Asia and Southeast Asia with locally tailored launches and promotional efforts.