JAECOO-J8-SHS-Hybrid-SUV-UAE-Media-Preview-&-Interview
I was invited to the media briefing for the new JAECOO J8 Hybrid SUV. I also attended the ride experience at the Dubai Autodrome. The guest list included journalists and automotive enthusiasts registered for the drive experience of the 600-horsepower hybrid SUV.
I completed a single lap around the club circuit. There, I experienced the SUV’s strong performance. I also noted its precise handling and confident braking characteristics. The controlled track environment highlighted how composed the JAECOO J8 feels at higher speeds and during quick directional changes.
Alongside the circuit drive, I participated in a dedicated parking and manoeuvrability challenge. This activity demonstrated the SUV’s agility, control, and ease of use, despite its large and powerful proportions. The exercise clearly showcased the J8’s comfort through tight turns. It also highlighted its advanced features, including 540-degree safety camera coverage. These features enhance visibility and driver confidence.
I had the opportunity to interview two crucial people from OMODA & JAECOO. One of them is Mr Will Li, EVP, OMODA & JAECOO – UAE. And Mr Gary Zhu, Product Manager, OMODA & JAECOO (HQ).
Mr Will Li, can you tell us more about the launch of JAECOO J8?
So today, December 24, we are doing the media and influencer text drive event in Dubai Autodrome. And our official launch for SHS (Super Hybrid System) and J8 SHS (JAECOO J8 SHS) will be in January 29.So we will invite 200 to 300 people in our SHS launch event. And so this is our launching plan.
Gary, can tell us about this JAECOO J8 SHS, I heard it’s a very powerful car?
Yes, our J8 (JAECOO J8 SHS) is now the most high-end model in the OMODA and JAECOO brands. And now our J8 has 600 horsepower, and its acceleration is very, very good. And its performance from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour only needs maybe 5.8 seconds. Also, we have some technological functions. It has over 20 driver assistance functions. The comfort features include seat massage and seat ventilation. It also has safety features like 10 airbags and a 540 panoramic image. So our J8 is the most high-end mode in the current mode and the JAECOO product series.
Gary, you said it’s a hybrid model, so if somebody is driving this car on a battery? What kind of range are we looking at?
As J8 SHS Hybrid model, with petrol and battery usage, the total range will be 1,300 kilometers. On just battery, you get 170 kms.
Gary, which segment or category of audience would be interested to the buy the J8?
I consider it a premium segment. You know, this model has an excellent interior design, exterior design, and function. It is a premium segment Hybrid SUV.
Coming back to you – Mr Will, As you already present in UAE, can you tell us more about OMODA and JAECOO which other countries in the Middle East are going to be present or already there?
Okay, let’s firstly talk about UAE. We launched our OMODA and JAECOO brand in February of 2025.So we just launched 10 months and we are sold around 3,000 cars. And just like Gary said, JAECOO J8 SHS is our flagship model, our highest premium car in our product lineup. And 2026, we want to continue to expand in the UAE market with JAECOO brand. Our plan is to sell 7,000 cars to 10,000 cars. That means we will see more customer with JAECOO car on the road in the UAE.
And for the other market expansion in the Middle East, we launched in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. We are also going to enter new markets like Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. And for the global market, now we’re already selling very well in the European market, in UK. In September month, we have sold more than 10,000 cars. And also we are going enter markets like Spain, UK, Malaysia and more markets soon. And recently, if you read the news, we just launched in Pakistan and have built a factory. Just in one month, our OMODA and JAECOO brand, we got 3,000 bookings. Now I think we have already entered more than 50 countries. The market share is increasing step by step.
Gary, just one final question, you already spoken about the J8 SHS safety features and all the other details. What is the customer’s perception, do they look at safety, speed or look at the premium features?
As our J8 SHS is a 7-seater, it’s a family car. We need to have some safety functions, like 10 airbags. Additionally, it includes a 540 panoramic image and add-on functions. I think a family car doesn’t mean it is bought for the family. Sometimes, you may drive it by yourself. It must have performance and acceleration power. Customers in this segment expect the vehicle to be a very premium flagship performance SUV. So J8 SHS is a combination of all the above.
Brief about JAECOO J8 SHS (Super Hybrid System)
The JAECOO J8 SHS (Super Hybrid System) combines strong performance with a luxury interior. It has a first-class cabin designed for comfort and refinement. The cabin features premium NAPPA leather upholstery, 12-way power-adjustable seats, and five massage modes for both driver and passengers.
Safety and intelligence get equal focus, with the J8 SHS offering up to 10 airbags, the highest in its segment. It also includes 19 advanced ADAS driving assistance features, delivering confidence for daily commutes and long-distance journeys.
The advanced third-generation SHS PHEV technology allows driving without external charging. The petrol engine intelligently acts as a generator, powering the electric system and eliminating range anxiety for UAE driving conditions.
For fast-paced urban lifestyles, the J8 SHS-P delivers class-leading fast-charging ability. It requires only 25 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%.
Commenting on the event, Shawn Xu, CEO of OMODA & JAECOO Automobile International, said: “The JAECOO J8 SHS (Super Hybrid System) test drive at Dubai Autodrome demonstrates our confidence in the Super Hybrid System’s performance, technology, and real-world usability. From powerful acceleration and extended range to a premium cabin experience, the J8 SHS has been engineered to meet the expectations of UAE customers who demand both performance and luxury.”
The successful debut reinforces OMODA & JAECOO UAE’s commitment to innovation. It validates their performance and hands-on engagement with the regional automotive community. The brand continues expanding across the Emirates.
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