The Seres SF5 1.5T (694 Hp) EREV 4WD is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV produced by Seres Group, beginning in 2019. It represents a significant entry into the burgeoning Chinese New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market, and showcases a unique extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) architecture. The SF5 is notable for its high combined system power output and its focus on delivering a premium driving experience with reduced emissions. It occupies the upper end of the Chinese SUV market, competing with both domestic and international brands offering similar electrified powertrains. The “1.5T” designation refers to the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine used as a range extender, while “EREV” signifies its primary operation as an electric vehicle with the gasoline engine serving to recharge the battery.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seres |
| Model | SF5 |
| Generation | SF5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (694 Hp) EREV 4WD |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 1.2 l/100 km (196 US mpg, 235.4 UK mpg, 83.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 295.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.3 kg/Nm, 442.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 35 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 345.6 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 150 km (93.21 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 16.65 kWh/100 km (26.8 kWh/100 mi, 126 MPGe, 6 km/kWh, 3.7 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor 1 model/code | SEP200 |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Asynchronous |
| Electric motor 2 model/code | Hw150 |
| Electric motor 2 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 694 Hp |
| System torque | 1040 Nm (767.06 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 112 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 196 Nm @ 1800-4000 rpm (144.56 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SFG15TR |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2725 kg (6007.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4700 mm (185.04 in.) |
| Width | 1930 mm (75.98 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2180 mm (85.83 in.) |
| Height | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2875 mm (113.19 in.) |
| Front track | 1655 mm (65.16 in.) |
| Rear track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 935 mm (36.81 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 890 mm (35.04 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 181 mm (7.13 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 362×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 363.5×18 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Seres SF5’s powertrain is a complex system designed to maximize electric driving range while offering the security of a gasoline-powered range extender. The core of the system is the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (SFG15TR), producing 112 horsepower and 196 Nm (144.56 lb.-ft.) of torque. This engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels; instead, it powers a generator to produce electricity, which then charges the 35 kWh lithium-ion battery pack or directly powers the electric motors. Two electric motors – a front asynchronous motor (SEP200) and a rear synchronous motor (Hw150) – provide all-wheel drive capability and a combined system output of 694 horsepower and 1040 Nm (767.06 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a turbocharger with intercooling to improve efficiency and power output. The automatic transmission is a single-speed unit, typical for electric vehicle drivetrains, focusing on smooth and efficient power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The SF5 1.5T EREV delivers a driving experience heavily biased towards electric operation. In typical driving scenarios, the vehicle operates solely on electric power, providing instant torque and quiet acceleration. The 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.6 seconds is indicative of the potent electric motors. When the battery is depleted, the 1.5-liter engine seamlessly kicks in to generate electricity, extending the range. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally smooth, though some engine noise is noticeable during range-extending operation. Compared to potential higher-output gasoline-only versions (if offered), the 1.5T EREV prioritizes efficiency and refinement over outright performance. The single-speed transmission provides linear acceleration, but lacks the gear changes found in traditional automatic transmissions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Seres SF5 1.5T EREV 4WD typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a premium SUV. Standard features generally include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Optional extras could include upgraded audio systems, premium interior trim materials, and more sophisticated ADAS features. The interior design emphasizes a modern and luxurious aesthetic, with a focus on technology integration.
Chassis & Braking
The SF5 utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. Stabilizer bars are included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The relatively heavy weight of the vehicle (2350 kg / 5180.86 lbs) necessitates a robust suspension and braking system to maintain control and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seres SF5 has received generally positive reviews in the Chinese market, praised for its innovative EREV powertrain, luxurious interior, and strong performance. Critics have noted the vehicle’s relatively high price point compared to some competitors. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in China, the SF5 stands out with its high system power output and extended electric range. Fuel economy is excellent when operating in electric mode, and the range-extending engine provides peace of mind for longer journeys. Reliability data is still emerging, but early reports suggest a generally positive ownership experience.
Legacy
The Seres SF5 1.5T EREV 4WD represents a significant step forward in the development of extended-range electric vehicles. Its innovative powertrain and focus on delivering a premium driving experience have helped to establish Seres as a key player in the Chinese NEV market. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be fully assessed, but the combination of a relatively simple gasoline engine and robust electric motors suggests a potentially durable and dependable system. On the used car market, the SF5 is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a technologically advanced and environmentally friendly SUV with a unique driving experience.
