Haval’s B06 (internal codename) is based on a new platform, independent of the ‘H’ and ‘F’ series
It is not news that Chinese automaker Haval, a subsidiary of Great Wall Motor (GWM) is planning an SUV onslaught for the Indian market. Back at Auto Expo 2020 (held in early February), the company had showcased a range of products that could potentially hit our market in the near future. Highlights of the Haval pavilion were the H9, F7X, F5, H Concept and Vision 2025 concept.
Great Wall Motor has four automakers under its umbrella: Haval, Wey, Ora and Great Wall Pickup. After a considerable amount of planning, the company chose Haval to mark its debut on Indian shores. Manufacturing and assembling will take place in Talegaon, Maharashtra at the facility previously run by General Motors India. Haval is yet to share its Indian portfolio but one can expect it to be mostly premium crossovers and SUVs. EVs might also be added to the lot at a later stage.
Images of a new Haval SUV (internal codename: B06) have surfaced on the internet. Reports state that it will make its global debut later this year. It is apparently based on an all-new platform which does not share traits with the underpinnings of Haval’s ‘H’ and ‘F’ SUV model line.
Being an early reveal, nothing much is known about the upcoming Haval B06 at the moment. Images suggest that it could be a proper ladder-frame chassis but modern-day SUVs are gradually shifting to monocoque architecture (which, on paper, does not technically make them SUVs). At least visually, the B06 looks capable enough to take on tricky terrains. It is safe to expect no less than a front-wheel-biased AWD powertrain.
Coming to its styling, the rugged lines and prominent shoulders were created by Haval’s VP and Global Design Director, Phil Simmons. Prior to joining GWM group in 2018, he was working at Land Rover as the British marque’s Design Director. He has had a hand in creating the 2018 Range Rover siblings, 2017 Velar and 2016 Evoque.
Haval’s current range of engines includes 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbo petrol motors available in varied states of tune. The B06 would most likely employ one of these power plants (its dimensions seemingly demand a 2.0-litre mill).
Over the months, the SUV was spotted on multiple occasions on public roads. Despite wearing heavy camouflage, interiors details such as an extra-large touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, rotary-dial gear selector, etc., were observed. Considering the present state of affairs, Haval has enough time to rethink or perfect its business strategies.
