BAIC Philippines has been on a roll as of late, when it pivoted towards electrified vehicles. From the B30e Dune Hybrid to the B60e Beaumont rEV and the B40e Trailmaster rEV, the brand was able to build a strong momentum towards hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs).

In the future, the brand may also introduce electrified crossovers after the Department of Energy (DOE) recognized a new HEV model from BAIC. 

We recently stumbled upon the DOE’s list of recognized HEVs, the BAIC X55 HEV Verve. The crossover was initially launched back in 2024 when United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) brought back the BAIC brand after a short hiatus. It served as BAIC’s one of two crossover SUVs and was only available with a turbocharged inline-four at the time. But with the market pivoting towards electrified vehicles, it’s not surprising the X55 may soon be offered solely as a hybrid.

Based on the DOE’s listing, the BAIC X55 Verve will have a maximum electric power of 160 kW or 217 PS, while maximum engine output is at 71 kW or 97 PS. It is then assisted by a small 1.83 kWh ternary lithium battery pack. Size-wise, the X55 HEV Verve measures 4620mm long, 1886mm wide, and 1680mm tall.

According to additional specifications attached to the DOE listing, the X55 HEV Verve makes a combined 217 PS. With that, perhaps the X55 HEV Verve features a hybrid setup that could be similar to the Ford Territory Hybrid. While both have a 1.5L turbocharged engine, the inline-four mostly serves as an onboard generator for the battery and electric motor.

With the BAIC X55 HEV Verve already securing hybrid recognition from the DOE, BAIC Philippines might soon hold its official launch later this year. We’ll be curious how much will the electrified X55 Verve will sell for since the ICE version is currently selling for PHP 998K.