Buick has strengthened its commitment to electrification in China with the launch of the Velite 7 electric vehicle and Velite 6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
The Velite 7 is the first all-electric SUV in Buick’s new energy vehicle portfolio, offering an impressive range of 500 kilometers on a single charge. It is also designed to set a new benchmark in its segment with a suite of winning technologies that take the innovative connectivity and EV riding experience to the next level.
The Velite 6 PHEV adopts Buick’s latest eMotion electric propulsion technology to appeal to eco-minded consumers. It has a driving range of up to 780 kilometers, including an electric-only range of 60 kilometers, while delivering the same smooth and comfortable ride that Buick is known for.
Both new models leverage GM’s global electric vehicle leadership and strong local engineering capability. With the two latest entries, Buick is further expanding its EV presence in China with a strengthened portfolio that covers a broad range of body style and technology solutions.
“There has never been such an ambitious rollout of two remarkable electrified products at the same time in Buick’s history in China. It demonstrates our long-term commitment to technology leadership in the electrification segment in our largest market,” said Molly Peck, executive director of Buick Sales and Marketing at SAIC-GM.
“With their contemporary styling, exceptional driving experience, trusted safety and reliability, and incredible connectivity functionality, we believe the Velite 7 and Velite 6 PHEV will change people’s perceptions of electric vehicles and convince more of them to make the move from traditional vehicles powered solely by petroleum to environmentally friendly vehicles powered by electricity.”
The Velite 7 is available in two variants with a price of RMB 179,800 and RMB 199,800 including government subsidies. The three trims of the Velite 6 PHEV have a price range of RMB 159,800 to RMB 179,800 including government subsidies.
In response to customers’ growing demand for online shopping, Buick is launching direct sales for the Velite 7 to provide the seamless integration of online and offline sales channels. Under the new sales model, customers can check vehicle information, engage in purchase consultation and place an order directly with Buick through the iBuick app. Dealers will maintain their service contacts with vehicle handover and other personalized customer service.
To maximize the EV ownership experience, Buick is also offering a whole package of customer-centric services for buyers of both the Velite 7 and the Velite 6 PHEV. They include a free home charging pole to facilitate their daily usage and updated digital service via the iBuick app that will enable owners to remotely control their vehicle, check the battery capacity and range, manage charging settings, plan routes and locate nearby charging stations.
In addition, both models come with an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty for the electric propulsion system and key components. Customers will also enjoy 100G of free OnStar 4G LTE data service every year.
Keyword: Buick Launches Velite 7 EV and PHEV