What V8? This Corvette C1-inspired SS Dolphin gets a 312 PS PHEV hybrid instead

At a glance, you’d be forgiven for mistaking this Songsan SS Dolphin as a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette C1, seeing how uncanny the resemblance is.

Just look at it – its quad headlights and angular front grille is practically reminiscent of the Corvette C1. If that’s not all, the SS Dolphin also gets three fins on the side with a white trim piece – dead ringer to the Corvette. All that’s missing are white-wall wheels.

But that’s where the resemblance ends, as the Corvette-inspired SS Dolphin is not powered by a big-block V8; instead, it gets a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain. Power is derived from a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor, good for 312 PS and 500 Nm. It also gets a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

With that powertrain, the Dolphin is able to complete the century sprint in just 4.9 seconds, whilst still being able to travel up to 100 km on electric power alone.

This powertrain however, isn’t unique to Songsan Motors, as it utilizes BYD’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. The SS Dolphin is also assembled at BYD’s facility, more specifically at BYD’s Xi’an plant.

It is also properly modern inside.It gets a multi-function steering wheel, a touchscreen infotainment display, a digital instrument cluster, and an electronic shifter. 

Impressed? Wait till you hear the price, as the SS Dolphin isn’t cheap. Those interested to get one have to fork out CNY 598,000 (~RM 385k) – big money for what it is. Regardless, there’s nothing quite on the road like this, that’s for sure.