Haval Raptor PHEV adds unexpected “aquatic mode” - Great Wall offers free fix

The issue came to light after reports surfaced about water accumulating under the trunk floor of certain Raptor PHEV models. Investigations by Haval revealed that a drainage flaw near the charging-port cover was allowing water to seep inside, leading to potential damage. In response, Haval has launched a special inspection campaign through its authorized service network, starting October 15. The campaign aims to identify and repair affected vehicles at no cost to the owners. Haval's decision to offer a lifetime warranty on any components damaged as a result of the leak further underscores their commitment to customer care.

Haval's swift response includes opening a 'green channel' at dealerships to expedite service for affected vehicles, ensuring minimal inconvenience to customers. The Raptor, marketed domestically as the Menglong, is positioned as a compact off-roader within Haval's lineup. The 2026 model, introduced just two months ago, features notable updates such as redesigned front and rear ends, new 19-inch wheels, and a revamped cabin equipped with the Coffee OS 3 infotainment system. Priced starting at 173,800 yuan (approximately 24,400 USD), the Raptor draws power from a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine paired with a dual-motor Hi4 system, generating an impressive 330 kW and 750 N·m of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds.

While Haval has not disclosed the exact number of vehicles affected by the water-leak problem, the company is taking steps to enhance its production standards. This incident sheds light on the engineering challenges faced by manufacturers as they balance electrification components with traditional SUV durability. As the automotive industry moves towards increasingly complex plug-in hybrid systems, ensuring robust production quality and sealing standards becomes paramount. Haval's pledge to 'take full responsibility' and its invitation for customer feedback through a dedicated hotline and mobile app demonstrate their proactive stance in addressing these challenges.

The broader implications of this incident highlight the importance of rigorous quality control in the evolving landscape of hybrid vehicles. As manufacturers like Great Wall Motor continue to innovate, maintaining consumer trust through reliable after-sales service and robust product reliability is crucial. The company's commitment to improving drainage design in future production runs indicates an awareness of these challenges and a willingness to learn from them. Moreover, Haval's handling of the situation may serve as a benchmark for other manufacturers in the industry, emphasizing the importance of transparency and customer engagement.

Looking forward, the incident places renewed attention on Great Wall Motor’s production consistency and the importance of maintaining high standards across its hybrid SUV range. Haval's approach to this issue, characterized by transparency and a commitment to customer satisfaction, sets a positive precedent. As the company continues to strengthen its quality-control measures, the lessons learned from this experience could drive improvements not only within Haval but across the broader industry, ultimately benefiting consumers with more reliable and durable vehicles.