Demand for hybrid vehicles is growing rapidly in India, especially plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Compared to traditional hybrid systems, PHEVs come with larger batteries and a longer electric range, offering a better balance between petrol and electric driving. Amid this growing trend, a new full-size luxury PHEV SUV – the Rox 01 – has filed a patent in India, sparking excitement in the auto industry.
The Rox 01 was developed by a Chinese startup called Rox Motor, which reportedly has connections with major tech brands. This SUV is also known as the Adamas, and both models are nearly identical, with minor design changes for different markets. The version patented in India incorporates some design elements from the Rox Adamas, such as the wheels and bumpers, and also features the Rox 01’s LiDAR sensor, giving it advanced driving technology.
In terms of size and road presence, the Rox 01 is a large and sturdy SUV. It measures 5,298 mm in length, 1,985 mm in width, and 1,856 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,010 mm. This makes it a full-size SUV, fitting into the Indian market alongside vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster. Furthermore, its 272 mm ground clearance and 770 mm water wading capability make it capable of off-roading.
In terms of design, the Rox 01 features a boxy and traditional SUV style, giving it a rugged and premium appeal. The front features a classic headlamp setup with integrated DRLs and a large grille. Its straight roofline and window line give it a rugged look. Traditional door handles, a side-hinged tailgate, and a rear spare wheel give it a true SUV feel.
Interior-wise, the Rox 01 is designed to offer a completely luxurious experience. It features a three-row seating layout, with options for 2+2+2 and 2+3+2 configurations. The 2+2+2 layout, in particular, features lounge seats in the second row, which come with retractable ottomans. These seats are 8-way power adjustable, heated, ventilated, and have a massage function, ensuring comfort even on long journeys.
The SUV’s cabin is made of premium materials, including Nappa leather upholstery and a suede headliner. It’s also quite technologically advanced, featuring a 15.7-inch 3K high-resolution infotainment system, a 15.7-inch rear entertainment display, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Additionally, features like a 14-speaker Arkamys sound system, three-zone climate control, and soft-close doors further enhance its premium feel.
The Rox 01 is well-positioned in terms of safety and driving technology. It boasts advanced ADAS features, a 360-degree surround-view camera, crawl control, and up to eight airbags. Electronic dampers with adjustable ride height provide a better driving experience in varying road conditions.
The Rox 01’s biggest highlight is its powertrain. It features a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine and a large 56.01 kWh battery. This setup combines dual motors and a full-time 4WD system, producing a total of 469 bhp and 740 Nm of torque. This power output makes it one of the most powerful SUVs in its segment.
The Rox 01’s performance is also impressive. This SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 190 km/h. However, its biggest highlight is its range. It offers a pure electric range of 235 km, allowing for petrol-free city driving. It comes with a 70-liter fuel tank, which gives it a claimed range of 1,226 km.
Overall, the Rox 01 PHEV SUV offers a perfect combination of luxury, performance, and long range. While there’s no official confirmation regarding its launch in India yet, the patent filing indicates that the company is seriously considering the Indian market. If launched in India, it could set a new benchmark in the full-size SUV segment and help bring PHEV technology to the mainstream.
