The Chinese automotive market has just witnessed a remarkable debut. The new Dongfeng M-Hero M817, a futuristic hybrid SUV developed in partnership with Huawei, has attracted nearly 10,000 refundable orders in a single day. With extreme performance, rugged looks, and a competitive price tag, the M817 is already proving to be a hit with Chinese buyers—and it’s turning heads globally, despite having no official plans for export to the U.S.
Highlights at a Glance
- Dongfeng M-Hero M817 received 9,713 refundable deposits within 24 hours
- Built with Huawei tech and positioned below the M-Hero 917 in size
- Features a 912 hp hybrid drivetrain with dual electric motors and a range extender
- Accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds
- Offers 200 km (124 miles) of EV-only range
- Starts at approximately $46,000, topping out at around $50,000
- Distinctive design helps it stand out in a saturated SUV market
- Left- and right-hand drive configurations hint at future global availability
A Game-Changer in Chinese Off-Road Mobility
The M-Hero M817 represents a bold new step for Dongfeng’s growing M-Hero sub-brand. Smaller than the M-Hero 917, the M817 combines eye-catching design with cutting-edge hybrid performance. The partnership with Huawei brings advanced tech capabilities, positioning the SUV as a serious contender in China’s high-performance off-road segment.
Dongfeng opened pre-orders just days ago, and in less than 24 hours, it had logged an impressive 9,713 refundable deposits. While these do not guarantee full sales, the enthusiasm reflects clear market demand for powerful and distinctive electric off-roaders.
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Performance and Drivetrain Details
Under the hood—or more precisely, under the body—the M817 is powered by a range-extender hybrid system. A 1.5-liter turbocharged engine acts as a generator for a dual-motor electric powertrain, delivering a staggering 912 horsepower and 1,280 Nm of torque.
This potent setup propels the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.2 seconds, rivaling some high-end performance cars. Additionally, a sizable battery pack provides up to 200 km (124 miles) of pure electric driving, making it suitable for both urban use and rugged terrain.
M-Hero M817 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Range-extender hybrid |
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged gasoline |
| Electric Motors | Dual motor setup |
| Total System Power | 912 hp |
| Torque | 1,280 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) Acceleration | 4.2 seconds |
| EV-Only Range | 200 km (124 miles) |
| Price Range (China) | ¥329,900 – ¥359,900 (~$46,000–$50,000) |
| Drive Configurations | AWD, left- and right-hand drive |
| Availability | China (potential for export) |
A Standout Look in a Crowded Segment
In a market saturated with SUVs that often blur into one another, the M-Hero M817’s angular, aggressive styling helps it stand apart. Borrowing some DNA from its bigger sibling, the M-Hero 917, the M817 delivers a distinctive and modern design language that appeals to buyers seeking something bold and futuristic.
Its confident stance and imposing proportions echo the aesthetic preferences of off-road enthusiasts, while its tech-driven design nods to China’s growing electrification leadership.
Global Outlook: Will It Leave China?
While Dongfeng has not announced plans to bring the M817 to the U.S., speculation about potential international availability is growing. The model is reportedly being developed in both left- and right-hand drive formats, hinting at possible launches in other markets.
This flexibility opens the door for markets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and even some European countries to experience this high-powered Chinese SUV—especially in regions where demand for rugged electrified off-roaders is growing.
A New Challenger in the Global EV SUV Race
The M-Hero M817 is more than just another electric SUV. Its early success in China shows that there is real appetite for bold, high-performance, electrified off-roaders—especially when they’re priced aggressively.
With power figures that rival supercars and the practicality of a hybrid range-extender system, the M817 represents a unique proposition. Its success will likely inspire more Chinese brands to explore electrified performance SUVs, possibly challenging legacy automakers on a global scale in the years ahead.
Whether it ultimately reaches U.S. roads or not, the Dongfeng M-Hero M817 is already making waves as one of 2025’s most talked-about new off-roaders.
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