Following the 8-cylinder motorcycle, China's GWM has developed a new V8 engine for automobiles | Carscoops

      Great Wall Motor showcased a bi-turbo V8 with a hot-vee layout paired with an all-wheel drive system at the Shanghai Auto Show.

      The Chinese automaker introduced a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 during the event. This engine will be featured in vehicles under Great Wall's new luxury brand as well as in the Tank SUV series.

      Great Wall refers to the PHEV-compatible DOHC V8 engine as a “secret weapon in luxury markets.”

      While Ford, Stellantis, Mercedes, and even Ferrari have reduced their offerings of V8 engines recently, Great Wall Motor is stepping up, surprising many with this decision.

      Chinese automakers are leading in EV technology, but GWM demonstrated at the Shanghai Auto Show that they still value traditional internal combustion engines. The new bi-turbo V8 is poised to challenge established Western luxury brands. This is the same company that famously fitted an 8-cylinder engine into a motorcycle last year.

      The V8 engine is made entirely of aluminum and features a hot-vee design, meaning its two turbos are placed within the 90-degree V configuration, allowing proximity to the intake ports. This setup reduces lag and helps compact the engine's width.

      GWM describes the engine as “a masterpiece of Chinese large-displacement engines” and a “secret weapon in luxury markets.” Although the 4.0-liter capacity has been disclosed, the exact power and torque figures remain unrevealed. However, an executive from the automaker mentioned to Drive that it is intended for plug-in hybrid use.

      Regrettably for V8 enthusiasts, the hybrid system appears to prioritize electric power for regular driving, with the V8 engaging only when additional power is needed, such as for towing or overtaking. Hopefully, there will be modes that allow drivers to fully enjoy the V8 experience whenever they desire.

      This V8 is designated for a new luxury brand named Confidence, as reported by Drive, a moniker that likely wouldn’t fit a vehicle powered solely by an inline four or V6. The engine is also set to appear in certain Tank SUVs from GWM (the Tank 700 is depicted below).

      This isn't the first time GWM has surprised the market with an eight-cylinder engine. Last year, they arrived at the Beijing Auto Show with the Souo, a competitor to the Honda Goldwing motorcycle featuring a flat-eight engine, offering two additional cylinders than the Honda.