“iDD,” stands for “Intelligent Dual Drive,” and from that name alone Changan’s made it clear that it combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor.

The internal combustion engine component is served up by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder that promises up to 45 percent thermal efficiency—one of the highest in the world. Meanwhile, the electric component uses a fully Changan-developed electric drive transmission with 90 percent efficiency.

Equipped on a two-ton SUV, Changan says fuel consumption is as high as 20 km/L, while its pure electric range is pegged at 130 kilometers thanks to a 30.4 kWh battery. And when both the fuel tank and battery are run dry, they say maximum range is about 1,100 kilometers.

More than just efficiency, Changan thinks they can also boost the performance of their vehicles using the Blue Core iDD system. The plug-in hybrid powertrain offers “high-quality and consistent power output at all speeds.” Zero to 100 km/h is done in about 6 seconds, while the maximum speed is pegged at past 200 km/h.

Changan also promises longevity with the Blue Core iDD with a wide range of operating temperatures—as low as -35 degrees to 55 degrees Celsius. Plus, it will offer both updates and upgrades via Over-The-Air (OTA) updates throughout the car’s lifecycle.

Still no word on which Changan vehicle will first benefit from the Blue Core iDD engine, but they think that the introduction of their in-house developed PHEV powertrain will help them navigate the increasingly challenging automotive landscape.