The Buick Velite 6 (微蓝) is a Chinese compact station wagon, or a "multi-activity vehicle" (MAV) that is sold exclusively in China built by Chinese-American manufacturer SAIC-GM under the Buick marque. It is available as either an electric car or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
History
The Velite 6 was previewed with the Velite concept car in 2016[2] (not to be confused with the 2004 concept of the same name). In April 2018, two production-intent models were unveiled; one electric, and the other a plug-in hybrid.[3] The production Buick Velite 6 debuted at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show in April. At first, it was only available as an all-electric vehicle, with two battery options available.[4] In July 2020, the production plug-in hybrid version was launched.[5]
The Velite 6 is available in three variants: Entry, Middle, and Luxury. It also features three driving modes (standard, sport, and economy)[clarification needed] and three levels of energy recycling.[4]
Velite 6 Plus
The Buick Velite 6 Plus was introduced in October 2019. The Velite 6 Plus has a larger battery, with 52.5 kWh capacity and a range of up to 410 kilometers (250 mi) on the NEDC.[6] It generates up to 110 kW (148 hp; 150 PS) and 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) torque.
Velite 6 EV (2022)
In November 2021, Buick introduced an updated version of the original and Plus models, called the Velite 6 EV to distinguish it from the plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The battery was again improved, with 61.1 kWh capacity and a range of up to 518 kilometers (322 mi) on the NEDC.[7] The updated motor generates up to 130 kW (174 hp; 177 PS). Other changes included an update to Buick's eConnect infotainment system with 10-inch screen, new wheel design, and an updated front bumper/grille design.
Buick Velite 6 EV front.
Buick Velite 6 EV rear.
Plug-in hybrid
The Buick Velite 6 PHEV combines a 1.5-liter 72-kilowatt (97 hp; 98 PS) internal combustion engine with an 80-kilowatt (107 hp; 109 PS) electric motor, driven by an electronically controlled variable transmission (e-CVT). Together, they produce 135 kW (181 hp; 184 PS) and 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft) torque.[8] With a 9.5-kWh battery capacity, the PHEV has an electric-only range of 60 kilometres (37 mi) and total range of 780 kilometres (480 mi). The Velite 6 PHEV includes a "lock" mode which keeps the car on hybrid power for maximum range.
