The Seres SF5 1.5T (347 Hp) EREV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) SUV produced by Seres Group, beginning in 2019. Positioned as a technologically advanced offering within the SF5 lineup, it represents a significant step towards electrification for the Chinese automaker. The SF5, and specifically this 1.5T variant, was designed to appeal to consumers seeking a blend of electric driving range, extended overall range through its range-extending gasoline engine, and a premium SUV experience. It utilizes a unique series hybrid architecture where the internal combustion engine solely powers a generator, which in turn charges the battery and powers the electric motor driving the wheels. This differs from traditional hybrid systems with a direct mechanical link between the engine and drivetrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Seres |
| Model | SF5 |
| Generation | SF5 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (347 Hp) EREV |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 1 l/100 km (235.2 US mpg, 282.5 UK mpg, 100 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI B |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.4 kg/Nm, 87.9 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) | 18.8 kWh/100 km (30.26 kWh/100 mi, 111 MPGe, 5.3 km/kWh, 3.3 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 347 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 520 Nm (383.53 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | SEP200 |
| Maximum revolutions of the electric motor | 6500 rpm |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 347 Hp |
| Power (ICE) | 112 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (ICE) | 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 | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2230 kg (4916.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2605 kg (5743.04 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 1.5T EREV utilizes a unique powertrain configuration. The core of the system is a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine (SFG15TR) producing 112 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque. However, this engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels. Instead, it functions as a dedicated generator, powering an electric motor (SEP200) that delivers 347 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. The electric motor is a synchronous design, chosen for its efficiency and power density. The 35 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the floor, provides an all-electric range of 150 km (93.21 miles) under NEDC testing conditions. The gasoline engine kicks in to recharge the battery when it depletes, extending the overall range significantly. The SF5 employs a single-speed automatic transmission, simplifying the drivetrain and maximizing efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The driving experience of the SF5 1.5T EREV is heavily influenced by its electric powertrain. In all-electric mode, acceleration is brisk and smooth, with the instant torque of the electric motor providing responsive performance. The 0-60 mph time is quoted at around 6.5 seconds. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless, though a slight change in engine note is noticeable. The single-speed transmission means there’s no gear shifting, contributing to a refined driving experience. Compared to potential higher-output gasoline-only versions (if offered), the 1.5T EREV prioritizes efficiency and smoothness over outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a balanced feel, though it may not offer the same level of all-weather capability as an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Seres SF5 1.5T EREV typically came well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a premium offering. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, and a panoramic sunroof. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as premium audio systems, ventilated and massaging seats, and more sophisticated interior trim materials. Optional extras often included a head-up display and enhanced ADAS features.
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 and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are included on both axles to minimize 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 SF5’s relatively heavy weight (2230 kg / 4916.31 lbs) necessitates a robust suspension and braking system to maintain stability and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Seres SF5 1.5T EREV was generally well-received in the Chinese market, where it was primarily sold. Critics praised its innovative powertrain, long electric range, and luxurious interior. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, the SF5 stood out with its unique series hybrid architecture and focus on electric driving. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the combined NEDC figure of 1 l/100 km being particularly impressive. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high price compared to some competitors.
Legacy
The Seres SF5 1.5T EREV represents an important step in the development of electric vehicles in China. Its innovative powertrain and focus on electric driving helped to pave the way for future PHEV and EV models. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the SF5’s robust construction and well-engineered powertrain suggest it should prove to be a durable and dependable vehicle. On the used car market, the SF5 1.5T EREV is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a technologically advanced and environmentally friendly SUV with a long range and a comfortable driving experience.
