- Top 5 Chinese REEV Cars in UAE 2026: Forthing Friday REEV and S7 REEV Lead
- Quick Overview
- Model-by-Model Breakdown
- Forthing S7 REEV
- Forthing Friday REEV
- BYD Song Plus
- Deepal S07
- BYD Sealion 7
- Ranking Analysis: Our Top 5 Picks
- Price & Value Comparison
- Performance & Driving Dynamics
- Fuel Economy & Running Costs
- Practicality & Interior Space
- Technology & Safety Features
- Scoring & Rankings
- Pros & Cons
- Full Specification Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Top 5 Chinese REEV Cars in UAE 2026: Forthing Friday REEV and S7 REEV Lead
The top 5 Chinese REEV cars in UAE 2026 showcase a technology that is perfectly suited to the Gulf region's driving patterns, offering the efficiency and smoothness of electric driving with the range security of a petrol backup. For UAE buyers searching for "top 5 chinese reev cars in uae", the appeal is clear: REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) technology eliminates range anxiety while delivering the responsive, quiet performance of an electric motor. The Forthing S7 REEV, Forthing Friday REEV, BYD Song Plus, Deepal S07, BYD Sealion 7 represent the strongest REEV offerings from Chinese manufacturers, each combining an electric motor for propulsion with a petrol engine that serves as a generator to extend range. The Forthing S7 REEV leads the field with an extraordinary 1,100 km combined range, backed by a 218 hp RWD motor and premium Nappa leather interior. The Forthing Friday REEV offers 950 km of range at a more accessible 109,900 AED, making REEV technology available to a broader audience. The BYD Song Plus PHEV, while technically a PHEV rather than a pure REEV, delivers 1000 km of combined range with 235 hp. The Deepal S07 brings 258 hp and 1040 km of range in an SUV body style, while the BYD Sealion 7 offers pure electric performance with 308 hp for comparison. This guide provides a detailed technical comparison of each model's REEV or hybrid system, examining electric range, combined range, fuel consumption, charging requirements, battery warranty, and overall value to help UAE buyers understand and choose the best REEV car for their needs in 2026.
Updated August 2026. Data verified against manufacturer specifications and Cartea UAE market data.
Quick Overview
The table below provides a snapshot of the key models featured in this comparison, including their body style, starting price, and target buyer profile.
| Model | Body Style | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forthing S7 REEV | Sedan | 139,900 AED | Long-distance drivers wanting EV feel without range anxiety |
| Forthing Friday REEV | Sedan | 109,900 AED | Daily commuters wanting REEV efficiency at an accessible pri |
| BYD Song Plus | SUV | 119,900 AED | Buyers wanting PHEV efficiency with SUV practicality |
| Deepal S07 | SUV | 134,900 AED | Tech-savvy buyers wanting REEV SUV with long range |
| BYD Sealion 7 | Sedan | 172,900 AED | Buyers wanting sporty electric performance at a fair price |
Model-by-Model Breakdown
Below we examine each model in detail, covering its powertrain, performance specifications, interior features, warranty coverage, and the type of buyer it is best suited for. These sections draw on verified manufacturer data and Cartea UAE market pricing.
Forthing S7 REEV
Price: 139,900 AED | Body Style: Sedan | Powertrain: Range Extender (REEV) | Power: 218 hp
The Forthing S7 REEV is a Sedan from Forthing, priced at 139,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a Range Extender (REEV) delivering 218 hp, making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The Forthing S7 REEV is designed for Long-distance drivers wanting EV feel without range anxiety.
Under the bonnet, the Forthing S7 REEV produces 218 hp and 320 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.5s, delivering performance for its class. The RWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads.
Inside, the Forthing S7 REEV offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 450 L boot. Standard features include advanced driver assistance systems, and the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Key Highlights
- 1,100 km combined range - longest in Chinese sedans
- Range extender eliminates range anxiety
- Pure electric drive feel with petrol backup
- Premium cabin with Nappa leather
- L2 ADAS with highway assist
Best For: Long-distance drivers wanting EV feel without range anxiety
Forthing Friday REEV
Price: 109,900 AED | Body Style: Sedan | Powertrain: Range Extender (REEV) | Power: 190 hp
The Forthing Friday REEV is a Sedan from Forthing, priced at 109,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a Range Extender (REEV) delivering 190 hp, making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The Forthing Friday REEV is designed for Daily commuters wanting REEV efficiency at an accessible price.
Under the bonnet, the Forthing Friday REEV produces 190 hp and 300 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 8.0s, delivering performance for its class. The RWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads.
Inside, the Forthing Friday REEV offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 430 L boot. Standard features include advanced driver assistance systems, and the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Key Highlights
- 950 km combined range with range extender technology
- 190 hp electric motor with instant torque
- Modern sedan design with sporty proportions
- Smart cockpit with large touchscreen
- 8-year battery warranty for peace of mind
Best For: Daily commuters wanting REEV efficiency at an accessible price
BYD Song Plus
Price: 119,900 AED | Body Style: SUV | Powertrain: PHEV | Power: 235 hp
The BYD Song Plus is a SUV from BYD, priced at 119,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a PHEV delivering 235 hp, making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The BYD Song Plus is designed for Buyers wanting PHEV efficiency with SUV practicality.
Under the bonnet, the BYD Song Plus produces 235 hp and 460 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.9s, delivering performance for its class. The FWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads.
Inside, the BYD Song Plus offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 500 L boot. Standard features include advanced driver assistance systems, and the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Key Highlights
- PHEV with 1000 km combined range
- 235 hp and 460 Nm torque
- DM-i system for fuel efficiency
- Rotating touchscreen
- Best-selling PHEV SUV in China
Best For: Buyers wanting PHEV efficiency with SUV practicality

Deepal S07
Price: 134,900 AED | Body Style: SUV | Powertrain: Range Extender (REEV) | Power: 258 hp
The Deepal S07 is a SUV from Deepal, priced at 134,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a Range Extender (REEV) delivering 258 hp, making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The Deepal S07 is designed for Tech-savvy buyers wanting REEV SUV with long range.
Under the bonnet, the Deepal S07 produces 258 hp and 320 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.5s, delivering performance for its class. The RWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads.
Inside, the Deepal S07 offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 490 L boot. Standard features include advanced driver assistance systems, and the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Key Highlights
- 258 hp REEV SUV with 1040 km range
- RWD electric drive
- Premium interior with dual screens
- L2+ autonomous driving
- Fast charging support
Best For: Tech-savvy buyers wanting REEV SUV with long range

BYD Sealion 7
Price: 172,900 AED | Body Style: Sedan | Powertrain: Pure Electric (EV) | Power: 308 hp
The BYD Sealion 7 is a Sedan from BYD, priced at 172,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a Pure Electric (EV) delivering 308 hp, making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The BYD Sealion 7 is designed for Buyers wanting sporty electric performance at a fair price.
Under the bonnet, the BYD Sealion 7 produces 308 hp and 380 Nm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 6.5s, delivering performance for its class. The RWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads.
Inside, the BYD Sealion 7 offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 460 L boot. Standard features include advanced driver assistance systems, and the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
Key Highlights
- 82 kWh battery with 456 km range
- 308 hp RWD motor
- Sport sedan styling
- Fast charging architecture
- Premium interior with rotating screen
Best For: Buyers wanting sporty electric performance at a fair price

Ranking Analysis: Our Top 5 Picks
After applying our comprehensive evaluation framework, which weighs price-to-value ratio, performance, technology, safety, practicality, and warranty coverage, we present our definitive ranking of the top 5 models for this category. Each model has been assessed against criteria specific to its intended use case, ensuring that our recommendations are relevant to the real-world needs of UAE buyers.
#1 Forthing Friday REEV
The Forthing Friday REEV earns the highest position in our ranking, distinguished by its focus on combined range, electric driving experience, and value proposition. Priced at 109,900 AED, it delivers 190 hp and 300 Nm from its Range Extender (REEV), accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 8.0s. With seating for 5 and a 430 L boot, it offers practical space for daily use. The 950 km combined range capability and 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty further strengthen its appeal. This model is particularly well-suited for Daily commuters wanting REEV efficiency at an accessible price, making it our top recommendation in this comparison. The combination of its specifications, price point, and warranty coverage creates a compelling value proposition that distinguishes it from both its Chinese rivals and more established Japanese and Korean alternatives in the UAE market. As a REEV, its 950 km combined combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely, while the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty protects the sophisticated battery and electric drivetrain for years to come.
#2 BYD Song Plus
The BYD Song Plus secures the second position in our ranking, distinguished by its focus on combined range, electric driving experience, and value proposition. Priced at 119,900 AED, it delivers 235 hp and 460 Nm from its PHEV, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.9s. With seating for 5 and a 500 L boot, it offers practical space for daily use. The 1000 km combined range capability and 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty further strengthen its appeal. This model is particularly well-suited for Buyers wanting PHEV efficiency with SUV practicality, making it our strong runner-up in this comparison. The combination of its specifications, price point, and warranty coverage creates a compelling value proposition that distinguishes it from both its Chinese rivals and more established Japanese and Korean alternatives in the UAE market. As a REEV, its 1000 km combined combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely, while the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty protects the sophisticated battery and electric drivetrain for years to come.
#3 Deepal S07
The Deepal S07 takes the third spot in our ranking, distinguished by its focus on combined range, electric driving experience, and value proposition. Priced at 134,900 AED, it delivers 258 hp and 320 Nm from its Range Extender (REEV), accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.5s. With seating for 5 and a 490 L boot, it offers practical space for daily use. The 1040 km combined range capability and 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty further strengthen its appeal. This model is particularly well-suited for Tech-savvy buyers wanting REEV SUV with long range, making it our solid mid-pack choice in this comparison. The combination of its specifications, price point, and warranty coverage creates a compelling value proposition that distinguishes it from both its Chinese rivals and more established Japanese and Korean alternatives in the UAE market. As a REEV, its 1040 km combined combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely, while the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty protects the sophisticated battery and electric drivetrain for years to come.
#4 Forthing S7 REEV
The Forthing S7 REEV claims the fourth position in our ranking, distinguished by its focus on combined range, electric driving experience, and value proposition. Priced at 139,900 AED, it delivers 218 hp and 320 Nm from its Range Extender (REEV), accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.5s. With seating for 5 and a 450 L boot, it offers practical space for daily use. The 1,100 km combined range capability and 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty further strengthen its appeal. This model is particularly well-suited for Long-distance drivers wanting EV feel without range anxiety, making it our worthy contender in this comparison. The combination of its specifications, price point, and warranty coverage creates a compelling value proposition that distinguishes it from both its Chinese rivals and more established Japanese and Korean alternatives in the UAE market. As a REEV, its 1,100 km combined combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely, while the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty protects the sophisticated battery and electric drivetrain for years to come.
#5 BYD Sealion 7
The BYD Sealion 7 rounds out our top 5 in our ranking, distinguished by its focus on combined range, electric driving experience, and value proposition. Priced at 172,900 AED, it delivers 308 hp and 380 Nm from its Pure Electric (EV), accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 6.5s. With seating for 5 and a 460 L boot, it offers practical space for daily use. The 456 km (WLTP) range capability and 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty further strengthen its appeal. This model is particularly well-suited for Buyers wanting sporty electric performance at a fair price, making it our value-oriented option in this comparison. The combination of its specifications, price point, and warranty coverage creates a compelling value proposition that distinguishes it from both its Chinese rivals and more established Japanese and Korean alternatives in the UAE market. As a REEV, its 456 km (WLTP) combined range eliminates range anxiety entirely, while the 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty protects the sophisticated battery and electric drivetrain for years to come.
Price & Value Comparison
Price is often the primary driver for buyers exploring Chinese cars in the UAE, and the spread across these models is significant. The Forthing Friday REEV starts at 109,900 AED, making it the most affordable option in this group, while the BYD Sealion 7 is priced at 172,900 AED, representing the premium end of this comparison. That is a difference of 63 AED, which can fund several years of fuel, insurance, and maintenance. However, price alone does not determine value. The cheapest car is not always the best value, nor is the most expensive necessarily overpriced. True value is found at the intersection of price, equipment, performance, and warranty coverage. When we examine the standard feature lists, several of these models include leather upholstery, large touchscreens, panoramic sunroofs, and advanced safety suites that would cost thousands of dirhams extra on Japanese or Korean alternatives. The warranty packages are equally compelling, with most offering five to eight years of coverage, providing peace of mind that rivals premium brands. For budget-conscious UAE buyers, the key question is not simply which car is cheapest, but which delivers the most equipment, performance, and long-term reliability per dirham spent. Our analysis suggests that the mid-range options in this group often represent the sweet spot, offering the best balance of affordability and capability.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
Performance is a critical consideration for UAE drivers who regularly tackle long highway stretches between emirates, merge onto fast-moving multi-lane expressways, and occasionally venture into desert terrain. The models in this comparison offer a wide spectrum of power outputs and drivetrain configurations, each suited to different driving priorities. The Forthing S7 REEV delivers 218 hp and 320 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.5s. Its Range Extender (REEV) configuration with RWD provides a distinct driving character that appeals to Long-distance drivers wanting EV feel without range anxiety. This makes it particularly well-suited for enthusiastic driving and long-distance travel. The Forthing Friday REEV delivers 190 hp and 300 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 8.0s. Its Range Extender (REEV) configuration with RWD provides a distinct driving character that appeals to Daily commuters wanting REEV efficiency at an accessible price. This makes it particularly well-suited for enthusiastic driving and long-distance travel. The BYD Song Plus delivers 235 hp and 460 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.9s. Its PHEV configuration with FWD provides a distinct driving character that appeals to Buyers wanting PHEV efficiency with SUV practicality. This makes it particularly well-suited for enthusiastic driving and long-distance travel. The Deepal S07 delivers 258 hp and 320 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.5s. Its Range Extender (REEV) configuration with RWD provides a distinct driving character that appeals to Tech-savvy buyers wanting REEV SUV with long range. This makes it particularly well-suited for enthusiastic driving and long-distance travel. The BYD Sealion 7 delivers 308 hp and 380 Nm, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 6.5s. Its Pure Electric (EV) configuration with RWD provides a distinct driving character that appeals to Buyers wanting sporty electric performance at a fair price. This makes it particularly well-suited for enthusiastic driving and long-distance travel. When comparing outright acceleration, the differences are notable. Buyers who prioritise overtaking confidence and highway merging will prefer the higher-output models, while those focused on fuel economy and urban drivability may find the lower-powered options perfectly adequate for Dubai and Abu Dhabi traffic conditions. The drivetrain layout also matters: all-wheel drive provides superior traction in adverse weather or light off-road situations, while front-wheel drive optimises efficiency and interior space. For most UAE buyers, the choice comes down to whether they value raw performance or operating economy more highly.
Fuel Economy & Running Costs
Running costs are a major factor for UAE car owners, where fuel prices, while subsidised relative to many global markets, still represent a significant ongoing expense alongside insurance, registration, and maintenance. The models in this comparison span petrol, hybrid, and electric powertrains, each with distinct cost profiles. Petrol-powered models offer the convenience of instant refuelling at any of the UAE's numerous service stations, with fuel consumption ranging from economical naturally aspirated engines to more powerful turbocharged units that trade efficiency for performance. Hybrid models bridge the gap, using electric motors to supplement the petrol engine and reduce consumption by 20-35% in urban driving, where regenerative braking captures energy typically lost during deceleration. Fully electric models eliminate fuel costs entirely, with home charging costing a fraction of petrol per kilometre, though they require access to charging infrastructure and carry higher upfront purchase prices. For UAE buyers, the calculation should include not just fuel or electricity costs but also the typically lower maintenance requirements of electric and hybrid vehicles, which have fewer moving parts and no oil changes. Insurance costs in the UAE vary by vehicle value and power output, so more affordable models often benefit from lower premiums. Over a five-year ownership period, the total cost of ownership can differ dramatically between these models, and buyers should consider the full picture rather than focusing solely on the sticker price.
Practicality & Interior Space
Practicality is where Chinese cars have made some of their most impressive strides, with manufacturers understanding that UAE buyers demand generous interior space, flexible seating configurations, and enough boot capacity for family trips, grocery runs, and airport journeys. The seating capacity across these models ranges from 5-seat configurations ideal for small families and singles, to 7-seat layouts that accommodate larger households or those who frequently travel with extended family or domestic staff. Boot space is equally varied, with some models offering compact luggage areas suitable for daily use and others providing cavernous cargo holds that rival dedicated estate cars. Interior quality has also improved markedly, with soft-touch materials, leather or premium cloth upholstery, and thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. The infotainment systems in these models typically feature large touchscreens of 10 to 15 inches, wireless smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and integrated navigation tailored to UAE roads. Climate control is a critical consideration in the Gulf, and all of these models are equipped with powerful air conditioning systems designed to cope with summer temperatures that regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Rear AC vents, multi-zone climate control, and even cooled seats are increasingly common, ensuring passenger comfort regardless of where they are seated. For families, the availability of ISOFIX child seat anchors, rear door child locks, and spacious rear legroom are important considerations that these models address comprehensively.
Technology & Safety Features
Technology and safety have become battlegrounds where Chinese car brands compete aggressively, often offering equipment levels that rival vehicles costing twice as much. Across the models in this comparison, buyers can expect to find large touchscreen infotainment systems with high-resolution displays, wireless smartphone mirroring, digital instrument clusters, and voice control. Many also include premium audio systems from brands like Bose, multi-zone climate control, wireless phone charging, and connected car features that allow remote monitoring and control via smartphone apps. On the safety front, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are increasingly standard, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 360-degree or even 540-degree camera systems. These features, once the exclusive domain of luxury European brands, are now available on Chinese cars at accessible price points, democratising safety technology for UAE buyers. The airbag count typically ranges from four to six, with some models offering additional knee and curtain airbags. Structural safety is validated through crash testing, and while not all Chinese models have been assessed by GCC-specific programmes, many have undergone testing in their home markets and in ASEAN NCAP or Latin NCAP protocols. For UAE buyers, the combination of active safety systems and passive crash protection provides confidence that these vehicles can protect their families on the busy roads of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.
Scoring & Rankings
Each model is scored out of 100 across six criteria. The table below summarises our assessment for the Top 5 Chinese REEV Cars in UAE 2026: Forthing Friday REEV and S7 REEV Lead comparison.
| Model | Price/Value | Performance | Tech | Safety | Practicality | Warranty | Total /100 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forthing S7 REEV | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 80 |
| Forthing Friday REEV | 18 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 83 |
| BYD Song Plus | 18 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 10 | 85 |
| Deepal S07 | 15 | 17 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 10 | 84 |
| BYD Sealion 7 | 12 | 17 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 79 |
Pros & Cons
Every vehicle has its strengths and weaknesses. The following section summarises the key advantages and potential drawbacks of each model, helping you weigh the trade-offs before making a purchase decision.
Forthing S7 REEV - Pros
- 1,100 km combined range - longest in Chinese sedans
- Range extender eliminates range anxiety
- Pure electric drive feel with petrol backup
- Premium cabin with Nappa leather
- L2 ADAS with highway assist
Forthing S7 REEV - Cons
- Higher price point in Chinese car segment
- Limited dealer network compared to Japanese brands
Forthing Friday REEV - Pros
- 950 km combined range with range extender technology
- 190 hp electric motor with instant torque
- Modern sedan design with sporty proportions
- Smart cockpit with large touchscreen
- 8-year battery warranty for peace of mind
Forthing Friday REEV - Cons
- Brand awareness still growing in UAE
- Resale value unproven long-term
BYD Song Plus - Pros
- PHEV with 1000 km combined range
- 235 hp and 460 Nm torque
- DM-i system for fuel efficiency
- Rotating touchscreen
- Best-selling PHEV SUV in China
BYD Song Plus - Cons
- Brand awareness still growing in UAE
- Resale value unproven long-term
Deepal S07 - Pros
- 258 hp REEV SUV with 1040 km range
- RWD electric drive
- Premium interior with dual screens
- L2+ autonomous driving
- Fast charging support
Deepal S07 - Cons
- Higher price point in Chinese car segment
- Limited dealer network compared to Japanese brands
BYD Sealion 7 - Pros
- 82 kWh battery with 456 km range
- 308 hp RWD motor
- Sport sedan styling
- Fast charging architecture
- Premium interior with rotating screen
BYD Sealion 7 - Cons
- Higher price point in Chinese car segment
- Limited dealer network compared to Japanese brands
Full Specification Comparison
For buyers who want to compare the technical specifications side by side, the table below presents a comprehensive view of pricing, powertrain, performance, dimensions, and warranty across all featured models.
| Specification | Forthing S7 REEV | Forthing Friday REEV | BYD Song Plus | Deepal S07 | BYD Sealion 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (AED) | 139,900 AED | 109,900 AED | 119,900 AED | 134,900 AED | 172,900 AED |
| Body Style | Sedan | Sedan | SUV | SUV | Sedan |
| Powertrain | Range Extender (REEV) | Range Extender (REEV) | PHEV | Range Extender (REEV) | Pure Electric (EV) |
| Power | 218 hp | 190 hp | 235 hp | 258 hp | 308 hp |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 300 Nm | 460 Nm | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.5s | 8.0s | 7.9s | 7.5s | 6.5s |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | FWD | RWD | RWD |
| Range / Fuel | 1,100 km combined | 950 km combined | 1000 km combined | 1040 km combined | 456 km (WLTP) |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Boot Space | 450 L | 430 L | 500 L | 490 L | 460 L |
| Warranty | 8 yr / 200,000 km | 8 yr / 200,000 km | 8 yr / 200,000 km | 8 yr / 200,000 km | 8 yr / 200,000 km |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between REEV and PHEV?
REEV (Range Extended Electric Vehicle) systems like the Forthing S7 REEV and Forthing Friday REEV use an electric motor for propulsion, with a petrol engine that acts solely as a generator to charge the battery. The driving experience is purely electric. PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) systems like the BYD Song Plus use both the petrol engine and electric motor for propulsion, sometimes simultaneously. REEVs offer a smoother, more EV-like driving experience, while PHEVs can deliver more combined power.
Which Chinese REEV car has the longest range in UAE?
The Forthing S7 REEV leads with 1,100 km combined of combined range, making it the longest-range Chinese car available in the UAE. The Deepal S07 follows with 1040 km, while the BYD Song Plus PHEV delivers 1000 km. The Forthing Friday REEV offers 950 km at a more accessible price point. These ranges eliminate range anxiety entirely for UAE drivers.
Do I need to plug in a REEV car, or can I just use petrol?
REEV cars can operate entirely on petrol without ever being plugged in, as the petrol engine generates electricity to power the electric motor. However, plugging in when possible maximises efficiency and reduces fuel costs, as electricity is cheaper per kilometre than petrol. The Forthing S7 REEV and Friday REEV are designed to be driven as electric cars with petrol backup, so regular charging enhances the ownership experience but is not mandatory.
What is the fuel consumption of REEV cars in UAE driving conditions?
When driven on petrol only (without charging), REEV cars typically consume 6-8 L/100 km, similar to efficient petrol engines. When regularly charged and driven primarily on electricity, effective fuel consumption can drop to 2-3 L/100 km or even lower for daily commuting. The Forthing S7 REEV with its 1,100 km range is particularly efficient, as the range extender only engages on longer journeys beyond the electric-only range.
Are REEV cars better than pure EVs for UAE drivers?
For many UAE drivers, REEV cars offer the best of both worlds: the smooth, quiet, responsive driving experience of an electric car, combined with the unlimited range of a petrol car. This is particularly valuable in the UAE, where inter-emirate driving is common and charging infrastructure is still developing. The Forthing S7 REEV with 1,100 km range is ideal for drivers who want electric driving without any range anxiety. However, for pure city driving with home charging, a pure EV like the iCAUR V23 may be simpler and cheaper to run.
Final Verdict
After thorough analysis of the top 5 Chinese REEV cars in UAE 2026, our top recommendation is the Forthing Friday REEV. Priced at 109,900 AED, it delivers 190 hp and 300 Nm, with a 8 yr / 200,000 km warranty that provides exceptional peace of mind. Its combination of daily commuters wanting reev efficiency at an accessible price makes it the standout choice for buyers seeking the best balance of price, performance, and equipment in the UAE market. The Forthing Friday REEV excels because it offers features and capabilities that were previously available only on vehicles costing significantly more, demonstrating the value proposition that has made Chinese cars so compelling in the GCC region. Our runner-up is the BYD Song Plus, which offers a compelling alternative at 119,900 AED with 235 hp. Depending on your specific needs and budget, it may be the better choice, particularly if you value buyers wanting phev efficiency with suv practicality. For buyers with different priorities, each model in this comparison has distinct strengths: some prioritise outright affordability, others focus on performance or technology, and some offer the practicality that families need. We encourage you to test drive multiple models, as personal preference in ride comfort, interior ergonomics, and infotainment usability often plays a decisive role in the final purchase decision. The UAE Chinese car market in 2026 is more competitive than ever, and buyers are the ultimate beneficiaries of this competition. Whichever model you choose, you can be confident that Chinese car quality, technology, and value have reached a level that warrants serious consideration alongside any Japanese, Korean, or European alternative. Visit your nearest dealership to experience these vehicles firsthand and negotiate the best possible deal.









