Buick Velite 6

Velite 6 in brief

Velite 6 — a compact Buick MPV, produced by SAIC-GM and sold exclusively in China. It is offered as a pure electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Chevrolet has a related model, the Menlo.

The car prototype was shown in 2016, two series versions were introduced in April 2018, and the series Velite 6 debuted at the 2019 Shanghai Auto Show. Since it is not officially sold in Europe, such a car can only be found in Lithuania as a private import.

Versions and updates

Initially, the Velite 6 was only available as an electric car, offered with two battery options. In October 2019, the Velite 6 Plus was introduced with a larger battery, and in July 2020, the plug-in hybrid version. In November 2021, the electric version was updated and renamed Velite 6 EV: it received a larger battery, a more powerful engine, an updated multimedia system with a 10-inch screen, new wheels, and a redesigned front bumper and grille.

Three trim levels are offered: „Entry“, „Middle“ and „Luxury“. The car features three driving modes (standard, sport and eco) and three levels of energy regeneration.

Engine and battery

The „Velite 6 Plus“ has a 52.5 kWh battery, with a claimed range of up to 410 km according to NEDC, power output of up to 110 kW (around 150 hp), and torque of 350 N·m.

The „Velite 6 EV“ (2022) has a 61.1 kWh battery with a claimed range of up to 518 km according to NEDC, and engine power of up to 130 kW (around 177 hp).

The PHEV version features a 1.5-litre petrol engine (72 kW) and an 80 kW electric motor, connected via an e-CVT transmission; combined system power is 135 kW (around 184 hp), 380 N·m. The battery capacity is 9.5 kWh, with an electric-only range of up to 60 km and a total range of up to 780 km.

What to check when buying a Buick Velite 6

Since the car is officially sold only in China, first ensure its provenance, documentation, and that it is properly registered and inspected. Request warranty and service information — there is no official servicing in Lithuania.

For an electric car, the battery condition and type of charging port (Chinese standards may differ from European ones) are crucial, so check if the car is compatible with European charging stations before buying.

Software and multimedia systems are often tailored to the Chinese language, so check if other languages can be installed.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

Comparing versions

If you only need an electric car, go for the updated Velite 6 EV. If you often drive long distances, consider a PHEV, but always bear in mind the lack of official servicing in Lithuania.

Frequently asked questions