Buick Electra Encasa Debuts in China as New Flagship MPV, Launching First as a PHEV

Buick has officially introduced the Electra Encasa, a large luxury MPV that becomes the flagship model of the brand’s Electra sub-line in China. Serving as the sixth generation of the iconic GL8, the Encasa arrives first as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), with a fully electric version to follow shortly after.

Positioned as a premium mid-to-large MPV, the Electra Encasa is built on GM’s new Xiaoyao super-fusion architecture and priced from €52,800 to €56,300 (RMB 439,900–469,900).

Bold Exterior Design for Buick’s Luxury MPV Era

The Electra Encasa moves away from the traditional grille found on combustion models, adopting a clean, enclosed EV-style front fascia. The lighting package includes:

• Adaptive headlights with seven illumination modes

• Full-width rear lighting using 257 ultra-red LEDs

Its proportions fully embrace the premium MPV segment:

• Length: 5.26 m

• Width: 2.02 m

• Height: 1.83 m

• Wheelbase: 3.16 m

A straight, uninterrupted waistline emphasises size and stability, giving the vehicle a commanding road presence.

Advanced Driver Assistance With Qualcomm Power

The Electra Encasa debuts Buick’s Xiaoyao Intelligent Drive system, powered by Qualcomm’s new SA8775P automotive chip delivering 72 TOPS.

The ADAS suite uses Momenta’s R6 autonomous driving algorithm, enabling advanced urban NOA (Navigation on Autopilot). The sensor array includes:

• 1 long-range LiDAR

• 3 mmWave radars

• 12 ultrasonic sensors

• 11 HD cameras

Together, they support hands-free highway functions, automated urban driving assistance, and highly reliable perception in complex city environments.

A Tech-Rich, Theatre-Like Interior Experience

Inside, the Electra Encasa delivers one of the most screen-heavy MPV cabins in the segment:

Front Row Displays

• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster

• 16.3-inch centre infotainment display

• 16.3-inch passenger entertainment display

Rear Cabin Entertainment

• 21-inch 4K smart display

• Dual 5.5-inch touchscreen controllers for each second-row seat

• Controls for climate, seating, refrigerator, and rest modes

• Optional gaming console connections

• Premium Bose sound system

Passengers can fully recline, adjust lighting, and personalise cabin settings for long-distance comfort.

PHEV Powertrain: “True Dragon” Hybrid System

The launch model uses the new True Dragon Hybrid, pairing:

• 1.5-litre turbo engine producing 132 kW (177 hp)

• Electric motors + LFP battery pack

• Designed for smooth EV-mode city driving and long-distance hybrid efficiency

This setup prioritises range flexibility and reduced fuel consumption.

Upcoming Full EV Version: Dual-Motor Flagship

A full battery-electric Electra Encasa is scheduled for release soon, featuring:

Dual-Motor AWD Setup

• 268 hp (200 kW) front motor

• 174 hp (130 kW) rear motor

• 442 hp combined output

Range Options (CLTC)

• 601 km with a standard LFP battery

• 632 km with an extended-range LFP battery

Both versions use CATL-supplied lithium iron phosphate chemistry for improved durability and stability.

Key Specifications Overview

Category	Details
Model	Buick Electra Encasa (6th-gen GL8)
Price	€52,800–€56,300
Length	207.1 in
Width	78.7–79.6 in
Height	71.7–72.2 in
Wheelbase	124.4 in
Screens	10.25″, 16.3″, 16.3″, 21″
2nd Row	5.5″ controls, fridge, rest modes
Audio	Bose premium
Hybrid Powertrain	1.5T + EV; LFP battery
EV Powertrain (upcoming)	Dual-motor AWD, 442 hp
EV Range	373–393 miles (601–632 km)

A Significant Moment for Buick in China’s MPV Market

China is the world’s largest MPV market, and Buick has long held a powerful position with the GL8. The Electra Encasa elevates Buick’s presence into the premium electrified segment, appealing to business users, luxury family buyers, and chauffeur markets.

With both PHEV and full EV options, advanced autonomous features, and one of the most high-tech interiors in its class, the Electra Encasa is poised to become Buick’s new flagship for China’s rapidly growing electrified MPV landscape.