CNBC Exclusive / May 21, 2025 – Great Wall Motor Chairman Wei Jianjun has challenged prevailing electric vehicle narratives in a rare interview, arguing that pure EVs will remain a niche market while hybrids hold the key to sustainable automotive transitions.
The auto industry veteran emphasized pragmatic energy realities, stating: “Replacing the global petroleum ecosystem isn’t feasible – not even for China. Lithium batteries face dual challenges: extreme cold and overheating accelerate degradation. A multi-propulsion strategy isn’t just practical—it’s inevitable.”
This commentary arrives as Chinese automakers push into premium markets with advanced plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). Domestic PHEV sales surged 85% year-over-year in Q1 2025, according to the China Passenger Car Association, outpacing pure EV growth.
Wei dismissed technical barriers to premiumization, noting: “Our engineering matches legacy brands – we deliver comparable quality at $30,000 price points. The true challenge is century-old brand equity we’re compressing into a decade.”
Great Wall Motor’s leadership pushes multi-powertrain approach | Image: CNBC AI News
The executive’s stance contrasts with global EV ambitions but aligns with market realities – 42% of Chinese NEV sales in 2024 were PHEVs. Analysts suggest this reveals strategic divergence: while Western automakers bet on battery breakthroughs, Chinese leaders like Wei prioritize transitional technologies compatible with existing infrastructure.
As the industry grapples with conflicting visions, one truth emerges: The road to decarbonization runs through compromise, not absolutism. Whether hybrid pragmatism or EV idealism prevails may define this automotive century.
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