Chery's Jetour Zongheng G700 Makes History as First SUV to Traverse 1.5 km Yangtze River

      On October 16, 2025, Chery's Jetour brand achieved a groundbreaking milestone when its Zongheng G700 luxury hybrid off-road SUV became the first vehicle of its kind to cross China's mighty Yangtze River. The daring 1,480-meter (about 1.5 km) journey, completed in just 22 minutes, showcased the SUV's exceptional amphibious capabilities amid challenging currents.The Historic CrossingDeparting from Heisha Zhou Ferry Terminal in Wuhu, Anhui Province—Chery's hometown—the unmodified Zongheng G700 navigated approximately 1.2 km of open water to reach Nanlong Ferry Terminal on the opposite bank. Facing river currents of 5–10 km/h, the vehicle maintained a steady cruise speed of around 7 km/h and a stable floating posture throughout. Wuhu lies about 350 km upstream from the Yangtze's mouth at Shanghai, underscoring the river's formidable scale as Asia's longest and the world's third-longest waterway, spanning 6,300 km from the Tibetan Plateau to the East China Sea.This feat highlights the G700's engineering prowess, including a seamless, hole-free painted body, active air circulation system, and a 6-axis gyroscope for real-time balance adjustments—ensuring precise control even in turbulent waters.Vehicle Specifications and PowertrainThe Zongheng G700 is a flagship large luxury hybrid off-road SUV, available in four configurations with pre-sale prices from 349,900 to 429,900 yuan (roughly $49,000–$60,200 USD). It boasts an impressive 970 mm wading depth, making it ideal for extreme off-road and water-based adventures.Under the hood, the G700 features a 2.0TD hybrid-specific engine producing 155 kW (208 hp) and 340 Nm of torque, with a class-leading 45.5% thermal efficiency. Paired with an 800V silicon carbide high-voltage architecture, a 2-speed DHT hybrid transmission, a 4C dual-layer battery, and a 2-speed P4 electric motor, it delivers a combined 560 kW (751 hp) and 795 Nm of torque. This setup enables a remarkable full-tank range of 1,400 km, blending luxury, performance, and efficiency.The official launch is slated for October 19, 2025, positioning the G700 as a trailblazer in the competitive hybrid SUV segment.Market ImpactOrganized by Chery Auto, this river-crossing demonstration not only celebrates the company's innovative spirit but also teases the G700's potential for real-world versatility beyond traditional roads. As Chery continues to expand Jetour's global footprint, this achievement could redefine expectations for off-road hybrids, appealing to adventure seekers worldwide.