Recently, the initial production runs of export-bound versions of the Hytec SSR car left the General Automotive Company (GAC) assembly line, marking a significant milestone in this new model’s rollout. Hytec is the latest moniker for a model that originated as the Aion Hyper before rebranding without the Aion prefix. The Hyptec brand appears to be positioned around the concept of ‘hyper expertise’ based on its official visual identity. GAC refers back to its SSR as China’s inaugural electric-vehicle (EV) supercar.
Launched on October 9, 2023, the vehicle marks a milestone for China’s automotive industry, with prices starting at 1,286,000 yuan (approximately $178,110 USD) and ranging up to 1,686,000 yuan (equivalent to around $233,510 USD) in China. The first exports are likely to reach the Southeast Asian market by the end of this month. Global Asset Corporation intends to boost its additional revenue streams in the Middle Eastern, South American, and European regions. The Hypetec SSR is expected to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.
The SSR concept car, reportedly standing for Super Sport Racing, emerged from a collaborative effort between GAC’s Guangzhou and Los Angeles-based design teams. As you approach the vehicle, its dominant presence is immediately evident due to the prominent headlights that consume a significant portion of the exterior’s visual real estate, their LED daytime running lights serving as an elegant framework. The aggressive appearance is further amplified by the sleek black air inlet and rear spoiler. The SSR’s scissor doors open to expansive doorways, with its claimed physical protection components crafted entirely from high-strength carbon fiber, manufactured via an aviation-grade autoclave moulding process? The incorporation of these materials, particularly in-depth uses of aluminum alloys, significantly reduces the overall weight. The rear wing boasts a dynamic adjustment system that seamlessly responds to changing driving conditions, thereby optimising both aerodynamic efficiency and downforce. The paintwork is finished using a six-coat, four-layer spraying process.
The interior of the car, surprisingly vibrant due to its deep crimson hue. The Sport-oriented Safety Research (SSR) features a high-performance inspired steering wheel with a racing car-like design, and its dashboard is equipped with a large 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen display and a dedicated 8.8-inch instrument cluster that provides essential vehicle information at a glance. The car’s unexpected absence of a head-up display is surprising, considering its overall efficiency; however, the instrument panel is thoughtfully situated approximately halfway between the steering wheel and the base of the windshield, rendering it easily visible while driving. The central console’s design is an open and tubular concept, paying homage to the innovative interior of the GAC Enpulse prototype. The air vents harmoniously integrate into the sleek design of the central console, complemented by strategic placements on both dash extremities. The steering wheel features paddle shifters, but their precise function remains unclear.
The automobile features an innovative all-aluminium alloy design for its entrance and rear double wishbone suspension system. The advanced features of the vehicle are matched with sophisticated dampers from SDC and an electronic limited-slip differential, allowing for exceptional handling and stability enhancement.
The Hytec SSR is driven by a trio of electric motors, collectively producing 900 kW of power and delivering a substantial 1230 Nm of torque. One motor is installed on the entrance axle, boasting a power output of 320 kilowatts; meanwhile, two motors are situated on the rear axle, collectively delivering a combined energy of 580 kilowatts. The electric vehicle features a 74.69-kilowatt-hour battery pack, enabling it to travel up to 506 kilometres, according to the Chinese Laboratory Testing Cycle (CLTC). While employing ternary lithium (NMC) chemistry and leveraging GAC’s proprietary battery knowledge, the batteries in question are manufactured by CALB. The electric vehicle boasts a cutting-edge, dual-ratio transmission system. With its exceptional acceleration capabilities, this variant can go from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in a remarkably swift 1.9 seconds, while its top speed has been recorded at a thrilling 251 kilometres per hour. Curb weight is 1990 kg.
The HyperTec SSR boasts a 2-speed, 4-in-1 high-performance motor. Equipped with a high-voltage silicon carbide chip capable of handling excessive voltages of 900V, this innovative technology incorporates a comprehensive full-stack self-developed e-drive 3.0 intelligent management system. The overall effectiveness of the electrical drive system is reported to be a commendable 94.5%, demonstrating a high level of efficiency in its operation.
The intended market for these primary vehicles in Southeast Asia remains ambiguous, considering that the current export model is largely inaccessible in left-hand drive configurations. At the recent GIIAS 2024 exhibition in Jakarta, Indonesia, the innovative automobile was showcased under the Hyptec brand. While differences between the export model and the home model are expected to be negligible,
Sources: Autohome, Quick Expertise, Eseni
