In December 2024, Chinese automaker BAIC officially began accepting orders for its new BJ40 Magic Core Electric Drive Edition, also known as the BJ40e. This model represents the brand’s latest foray into the range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) segment, combining off-road prowess with advanced electrified technology. The BJ40e is initially targeted at the Chinese market, where its pricing is expected to range from approximately 224,800 yuan (about $30,770) to 244,800 yuan (roughly $33,500).
Design-wise, the BJ40e closely mirrors the appearance of the traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) versions of the BJ40. It retains the rugged, boxy form that has come to define BAIC’s off-road models. Elements such as its square headlights, prominent taillights, bold front grille, and muscular fenders contribute to its tough, utilitarian aesthetic. The BJ40e is built on the second-generation BJ40 platform, which was introduced in late 2023. In terms of size, the vehicle measures 4,790 mm in length, 1,940 mm in width, and 1,964 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,760 mm—dimensions that make it well-suited for both urban and off-road driving scenarios.
The interior of the BJ40e follows the tech-savvy trend seen in many new Chinese vehicles. It features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver and two 12.8-inch touchscreens on the central console—one for the infotainment system and the other for use by the front passenger. All these displays are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 chipset, which offers fast and responsive performance and supports AI voice interaction for a more intuitive driving experience.
What sets the BJ40e apart from the standard version is its electrified powertrain. Rather than functioning as a typical hybrid, the BJ40e utilizes a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 185 horsepower purely as a generator to recharge its battery. The vehicle is driven by two electric motors—one on each axle—delivering a total system output of 540 horsepower and 655 Nm of torque. This setup allows the SUV, which weighs 2,640 kilograms, to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 5.5 seconds.
Despite its powerful performance, the BJ40e maintains impressive efficiency. BAIC reports a WLTC-rated fuel consumption of just 1.39 liters per 100 kilometers. With a 40.3 kWh ternary lithium battery, the SUV offers a pure electric range of 152 kilometers and an extended range of up to 1,200 kilometers on a full charge and fuel tank. Fast-charging capabilities allow the battery to be charged from 30% to 80% in only 30 minutes, making it both practical and versatile for long-distance travel.