Almost three months after Geely launched the 2021 Geely Binyue in China, the company has just introduced the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version.

The new PHEV model is called the Binyue 1.5T ePro, available across two variants. Both variants of the Binyue 1.5 ePro are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-pot engine that does 170 PS and 255 Nm.

Combined system output is 258 PS and 415 Nm. What’s even more impressive is the pure electric range, which has increased from 62 km of the pre-facelift model to 85 km, whilst consuming just 1.2-litre/100 km. Being a PHEV, this new Binyue model has a 6.6-kW charger.

Nerdy stats aside, there’s actually very minimal visual differentiators between the regular Binyue and the electrified version. Look closer and you’ll spot the Mazda CX-5-esque 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and a new PHEV emblem on the tailgate.  

The blue colour you see here is also bespoke to the Binyue PHEV, but if this ‘bas kilang blue’ isn’t your thing, the Binyue PHEV can also be had in white or red.

The Geely Binyue PHEV is also packed to the brim with features, mirroring the petrol variant’s safety features. On top of its existing ADAS suite, the new Binyue PHEV will add Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF), Remote Parking Assist (RPA), and an enhanced Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) suite.

In China, prices of the entry-level Geely Binyue PHEV overlap the top-spec petrol Binyue at CNY 119,800 (~RM 78k) and tops out at CNY 135,800 (~RM 88k).

Any luck for Malaysia?

According to The Star, Proton Edar CEO Roslan Abdullah said, “Proton has a planned roadmap towards introducing hybrid, plug-in hybrid vehicles and EVs – so perhaps this development can help to push our plans forward.”

This could potentially pave the way for a Proton X50 PHEV in Malaysia. After all, by adopting a 3-cylinder engine in the Proton X50, it provides engineers with more room for electrification, if and when the need arises.

At the moment, the Malaysian-spec Proton X50 is powered by the choice of two engines. The first is a turbocharged 1.5-litre multi-point fuel injection (MPI) unit with 150 PS and 226 Nm, while the second engine gets a direct-injection engine, good for 177 PS and 255 Nm. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.