Chinese Automakers Push Limits: Jetour G700 SUV Floats Across Lake with Propellers

Chinese automaker Jetour has taken amphibious vehicle technology to new heights with its G700 SUV, which recently demonstrated its ability to float and propel itself across Yanqi Lake in Beijing using electrically-driven propellers.

The Jetour G700 Ark Edition, a modified version of the standard model, transforms the SUV into a functional watercraft when needed. Unlike typical amphibious vehicles, the G700’s powertrain shifts from land to water mode seamlessly: its 2.0-liter turbocharged plug-in hybrid four-cylinder engine and two electric motors redirect power from the wheels to a set of propellers. An advanced gyroscopic stability system ensures the vehicle remains level on the water.

The demonstration showcased the G700’s versatility, proving it can traverse both land and water with ease. While Jetour has designed the water-wading capabilities primarily for emergency use—such as crossing floodwaters—it’s clear the vehicle’s amphibious features will likely attract adventurous owners eager to test its limits.

Power and Performance: A Land and Water Beast

The Jetour G700 is roughly the same size as a Toyota Land Cruiser 300 Series and is slated for global export. On land, it delivers a staggering 892 horsepower and 837 lb-ft (1,135 Nm) of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds. The SUV also comes equipped with three locking differentials, making it a formidable off-roader.

For electric driving, the G700 is powered by a 31.4 kWh CATL battery pack, providing an all-electric range of 150 km (93 miles). The battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in just 10 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for long adventures.

From BYD’s U8 to Jetour’s G700: A Trend of Amphibious Innovation

Jetour’s G700 isn’t the first Chinese SUV to make waves—literally. Two years ago, BYD’s YangWang division captured global attention when it floated its U8 SUV across a body of water, showcasing the brand’s innovative approach to vehicle design. The U8’s water-crossing feat went viral, setting a new benchmark for what was thought possible in automotive engineering.

Now, Jetour has raised the bar further with the G700’s propeller-driven propulsion and advanced stability systems. The move underscores China’s growing influence in pushing the boundaries of automotive technology, blending off-road capability with amphibious functionality.

What’s Next for Amphibious Vehicles?

While Jetour has framed the G700’s water capabilities as an emergency feature, the vehicle’s performance and design suggest broader appeal. With its combination of high power, rapid charging, and dual-mode operation, the G700 represents a bold step forward in the evolution of multi-terrain vehicles. As Chinese automakers continue to innovate, consumers worldwide can expect even more groundbreaking designs that challenge traditional notions of what a car—or a boat—can do.