BAIC B40e Trailmaster rEV Arrives In PH, Priced From P2.888M

The appeal of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has significantly gained traction in the past month due to the ongoing fuel crisis as a consequence of recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As such, the arrival of the new BAIC B40e Trailmaster rEV couldn’t be any more perfect.

The B40e Trailmaster rEV, as its nomenclature suggests, is a range extender electric vehicle (REEV), which, in principle, is pretty much a PHEV. What makes an REEV different from a PHEV is that the engine never powers the wheels, and it simply charges the battery. In the case of the B40e Trailmaster rEV, it gets a 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder, which charges a 40 kWh lithium-ion battery.

With two electric motors and a four-wheel drive (4WD) system, the combined output is 547 horsepower and 655 Nm of torque, enough for a 5.5-second 0-100 kph time. Not only is it fast, but it enables a total driving range of more than 1,200 kilometers, while its pure electric range is 152 kilometers, both tested with the CLTC test cycle. The PHEV system also allows vehicle-to-load capabilities, while its charging port is GB/T.

From the outside, the BAIC B40e Trailmaser rEV has a boxy and commanding presence. Its front grille contains LED accent lighting, along with LED daytime running lights to complement the main LED lighting units. There are also power deployable step boards, a heavy-duty roof rack, and an interesting silver trim surrounding the rear quarter window. At the rear, there are interesting F-shaped LED taillights and a swing-out tailgate, as it accommodates a full-size spare wheel.

Equally rugged and modern is the BAIC B40e Trailmaster rEV’s interior. There’s plenty of plush materials and interesting textures, plus there are three screens to greet the driver and front passenger. The main infotainment screen and front passenger display both measure 12.8 inches. This is complemented by a 12-speaker Infinity sound system. Other interior features include a large panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, and an air intelligence system that can monitor the cabin air quality.

Finally, the BAIC B40e Trailmaster rEV comes equipped with a full suite of driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane centering, blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams, just to name a few.

The BAIC B40e Trailmaster rEV is going to be launched at the upcoming Manila International Auto Show from April 9 to 12, which will also be an opportunity for you to see this rugged PHEV SUV in person. The B40e Trailmaster rEV is priced at P2,888,000.