GAC M8 PHEV gets approval from the LTO

GAC Motor Philippines distributor Astara wowed everyone at the 20^th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) when they previewed the M8 PHEV. With a 2.0L engine that's assisted by an electric motor and a high-capacity battery pack, the plug-in hybrid M8 is capable of producing 373 PS and 650 Nm of torque. However, the automaker has yet to release official output figures for the Philippines.

GAC Motor Philippines said they plan to launch the M8 PHEV around Q3 2025 and will be in the sub-PHP 4.3 million price range. That means we can expect the electrified luxury MPV to hit the market between the months of July and September. But if you think the automaker is resting on its laurels, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) recently approved the M8 PHEV for the Philippine market.

In a recent Memorandum Circular released, the GAC M8 PHEV has been homologated by the LTO. Based on the public document, the electrified MPV will be dubbed the “M8 GX PHEV” and will have a 1991cc engine, which translates to a 2.0L unit. A quick check at what other markets get, and the 2.0L turbocharged engine makes 190 PS and 330 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the electric motor puts out an additional 134 kW or 182 PS.

Based on what other international markets get, the M8 PHEV comes with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four that makes 190 PS with 330 Nm. It is then assisted by an electric motor that produces 182 PS and 300 Nm of torque. The result is a combined system output of 373 PS with 650 Nm of torque. Power is then transferred to the wheels via a 2-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).

Size-wise, the PH-spec M8 GX PHEV will measure 5212mm long, 1893mm wide, and 1823mm tall with a 3070mm wheelbase. Side-by-side with that the PRC has and it gets the same dimensions as the one that will be sold in the Philippine market. It will also have 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 225/60 series tires.

The battery capacity of the M8 GX PHEV was not revealed, although based on the document, the electrified MPV can be recharged from empty to 100% in 7 hours via an AC charger. When hooked up to a fast DC charger, the battery can be replenished in as little as 45 minutes.

With the GAC M8 PHEV already approved by the LTO for the Philippine market, we're hoping to see more teasers and perhaps possible leaks in the coming months.