In a surprising move that could reshape the EV market, Geely has unveiled the Haoyue R7, a range-extender electric vehicle (EREV) with a swappable battery system—an industry-first combination that blends flexibility, innovation, and practicality.
 |
| Geely Haoyue R7 |
A Game-Changer: Swappable Battery Meets Range Extender
The Geely Haoyue R7 has been officially registered with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) as a battery-swappable EREV designed for versatile passenger use. This vehicle is positioned as a successor to the Geely Livan 7, incorporating a similar design language with enhanced capabilities and broader market appeal.
Visually, the Haoyue R7 mirrors the Livan 7’s sleek SUV silhouette, complete with through-style LED light strips on both the front and rear. Its dimensions—4680 mm in length, 1892 mm in width, and 1650 mm in height, with a 2778 mm wheelbase—make it nearly identical to its predecessor, emphasizing interior space and road presence. Two variants were disclosed, with curb weights of 1760 kg and 1960 kg, respectively.
The rear of the vehicle now proudly displays the Geely brand lettering, replacing the Livan insignia and signifying a strategic rebranding.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the Haoyue R7 is equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (model BHE15-BFN) producing 82 kW (110 horsepower). This engine functions solely as a range extender, working in tandem with a lithium iron phosphate battery. The vehicle boasts a top speed of 185 km/h, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment.
What truly sets the Haoyue R7 apart is its battery-swapping technology, a feature previously limited to fully electric vehicles. In a move that mimics Nio’s battery replacement model, Geely allows buyers the option to purchase the vehicle separately from the battery, complying with evolving national energy and vehicle ownership policies.
Addressing Market Gaps and Boosting Sales
This innovation appears to be a response to underwhelming market performance from the Livan 7, which sold only 124 units in May and totaled just 615 units in 2025 to date. In 2024, the model sold 4,493 units, signaling the need for a refreshed strategy. With the Haoyue R7, Geely is not only refreshing the design but also tapping into the growing demand for fast, flexible battery solutions.
Customization and Features
Future owners can look forward to a variety of customization options, including:
-
Hidden door handles
-
Dual-tone exterior finishes
-
Multiple rim designs
-
Adjustable side mirrors
-
Front camera options
Wheel choices include 215/55R18 and 215/60R17 tires, giving users a balance of comfort and style.
A First in Its Class
As of now, there are no mainstream EREVs on the market that support battery exchange systems. The Haoyue R7 will stand as the first-ever swappable battery range-extender EV, setting a new precedent for hybrid electric vehicle design and infrastructure.
With this groundbreaking release, Geely is not just unveiling a new vehicle—they’re introducing a new category. The Haoyue R7 could pave the way for future vehicles that combine the endurance of hybrids with the convenience of battery swapping, delivering a powerful solution to range anxiety and charging wait times.
0 Comments