GWM showcases future-ready technology and global ambitions at Beijing Auto Show

At the Beijing Auto Show 2026 in Beijing, GWM (Great Wall Motor) unveiled what it describes as its most ambitious technology and product offensive to date, led by the global debut of the new GWM ONE S platform. The new architecture marks a major shift in the company’s global strategy, combining multi-powertrain flexibility with native AI integration, while reinforcing GWM’s long-term ambitions in key markets including the Middle East.

For the UAE and wider GCC region, where GWM vehicles are represented by the Saeed Juma Al Naboodah Group, the spotlight remains firmly on the rapid growth of the HAVAL and TANK brands, alongside the future regional arrival of Wey and ORA models.

GWM ONE S platform takes centre stage in Beijing

At the core of the showcase was the GWM ONE S platform, also known internally as “Gui Yuan.” The architecture is built around what GWM calls a “One Vehicle, Multiple Powertrains” philosophy, allowing the same platform to support plug-in hybrid, hybrid, battery-electric, hydrogen fuel-cell, and traditional internal combustion powertrains.

According to GWM, the platform is underpinned by three major technological pillars – atomised hardware, tagged software, and an AI-native architecture. The company believes this flexibility is essential for global markets, particularly regions where infrastructure, climate conditions, and customer requirements differ significantly.

The technical figures revealed during the event were equally ambitious. GWM claims the plug-in hybrid version can achieve 0-100 kph in around four seconds while delivering a combined driving range of up to 1,377 km. Meanwhile, the battery-electric variant adopts a 900V electrical architecture capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 10 minutes, with a claimed range exceeding 660 km.

For Middle East markets, these developments are particularly relevant. Long-distance capability, fast charging, and durability under high ambient temperatures remain key priorities for regional buyers, especially in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia where vehicles frequently operate in demanding desert conditions.

GWM highlights Middle East ambitions

Speaking during Auto China 2026, Sunny Bhat, Sales & Marketing Director of GWM Middle East, positioned the new technologies as a major step forward for the brand’s regional future.

“What we are presenting in Beijing is the future of mobility for the Middle East. The new model launches, combined with breakthrough technologies like the GWM ONE S platform and our Hi4-T and Hi4-Z intelligent hybrid four-wheel-drive systems, directly address what our regional customers value most: performance, durability, efficiency, and intelligence.”

He added: “Each vehicle unveiled at Auto China 2026 has been engineered with global ambition but with the versatility to perform in our unique environment. We see this as a defining moment that will shape GWM’s growth trajectory across the Middle East over the coming years.”

The statement reflects GWM’s increasingly aggressive push into overseas markets, with the Middle East becoming one of its most important expansion regions.

Advanced drivetrains and off-road engineering

Alongside electrification and AI-driven systems, GWM also used Auto China 2026 to showcase several major powertrain developments.

One of the highlights was the company’s new 9DCT transmission, a compact nine-speed dual-clutch gearbox engineered for improved efficiency and hybrid compatibility. The transmission is rated to handle up to 400 Nm of torque and integrates a more compact hydraulic module, updated synchroniser technology, and a smaller mechanical pump aimed at reducing torque losses and improving efficiency.

GWM says the transmission is designed to deliver smoother shifts while supporting various hybrid configurations and frequent stop-start driving scenarios, something increasingly important as electrified powertrains become more mainstream.

The company also revealed a new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, developed with a strong focus on durability and off-road performance. The engine adopts a traditional 90-degree V-angle design for improved balance and reduced vibration, while integrating twin turbochargers and a water-cooled intercooler within the V-angle itself for packaging efficiency.

GWM says the V8 incorporates several advanced technologies inherited from its existing V6 engine programs, including a dual-injection system combining 350-bar direct injection with port fuel injection, a Miller combustion cycle, and a full-map oil pump designed to reduce mechanical losses and improve efficiency. Additional engineering measures include enhanced water-wading capability and a silicone oil damper designed to minimise vibration while delivering a distinctive V8 exhaust character.

The introduction of such an engine signals that GWM continues to see strong demand for traditional high-capacity powertrains alongside electrification, particularly in markets where towing, off-road capability, and long-distance driving remain important.

AI, safety and connectivity take priority

Beyond engines and drivetrains, GWM’s stand in Beijing also placed major emphasis on intelligent technologies and connected mobility.

The company showcased its proprietary Coffee Pilot 3 advanced driver assistance suite and Coffee OS 3 infotainment ecosystem, both designed to deliver scenario-based autonomous driving functions alongside a more immersive connected cabin experience.

GWM also displayed its growing battery technology portfolio, including ternary lithium, LFP, and semi-solid-state battery chemistries, alongside a 100 kW hydrogen fuel-cell system said to achieve 61% efficiency. The company additionally showcased a dedicated 2.0-litre hybrid engine developed specifically for high-efficiency electrified applications.

Visitors to the stand were also given access to a 110-metre off-road demonstration course, while displays from GWM’s crash-testing facilities highlighted the company’s focus on safety engineering and real-world durability testing.

Growing global footprint

GWM says it now serves more than 16 million customers globally, supported by an overseas sales network spanning more than 1,500 locations and cumulative international sales exceeding two million vehicles.

For the Middle East, the company sees HAVAL, TANK, and POER continuing to drive current momentum, while future Wey and ORA models are expected to introduce a more premium and lifestyle-focused dimension to the brand portfolio.

Company chairman Wei Jianjun, also known internationally as Jack Wey, reiterated GWM’s broader philosophy during the event, emphasising trust, quality, and long-term global compliance as the foundations of the company’s international growth strategy.

For Middle East buyers, Auto China 2026 signals that GWM is preparing to bring some of its most advanced technologies and global products closer to the region through its expanding HAVAL, TANK, POER, Wey, and ORA lineup.