GWM has confirmed plans to introduce a V8 engine to its Tank 700 large SUV, with company chairman Jack Wei outlining the move during the Beijing Auto Show.

Speaking to media from Australia and New Zealand, Wei said the Tank 700 is expected to adopt a newly developed V8 powertrain, extending the company’s work on higher-performance engines beyond an upcoming flagship sports car.

“The Tank 700 will also use a V8 engine,” Wei said. He distinguished it from the unit planned for GWM’s future supercar, noting the SUV would receive a less extreme version. He added the decision reflects demand outside China, particularly in markets such as Australia and New Zealand, where larger-capacity engines remain popular.

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The idea of a V8-powered Tank model has been under discussion since the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, when GWM executives acknowledged interest from export markets in a more powerful, premium SUV offering. The latest comments provide the clearest indication yet that such a model is moving forward.

At the same event, GWM also confirmed details of its upcoming GF supercar, which is set to use a 4.0-litre twin-turbo hybrid V8. The announcement suggests the company is developing multiple V8 configurations for different vehicle types, from performance-focused models to larger SUVs.

The Tank 700 sits at the top of GWM’s off-road-focused Tank range, positioned as a flagship model combining luxury features with heavy-duty capability. In China, it is already offered with the brand’s Hi4-Z hybrid system, and the addition of a V8 would broaden its drivetrain line-up.

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No timing for the V8 version has been announced, and GWM has not confirmed specific markets or launch dates. However, the company’s comments point to a continued focus on tailoring products for overseas regions where demand differs from domestic trends, particularly in segments where traditional engine formats remain in favour.