Amr Adib Changes His Mind on Chinese EVs After Testing REEV Technology

Egyptian TV host Amr Adib has reversed his stance on Chinese electric vehicles after a hands-on experience with technology he found genuinely impressive. Adib admitted he had sworn off buying an EV — especially a Chinese one — but the test drive changed everything. His mind flipped.

What Is REEV Technology That Impressed Amr Adib?

REEV, or Range-Extended Electric Vehicles, rely on an electric motor to drive the car. The gasoline engine never powers the wheels — it acts purely as a generator to produce electricity and recharge the battery when needed. This setup lets the car generate power while driving, reducing the need to stop for charging on long trips. It feels almost like a full EV.

So why did Adib switch sides? Speaking on his show 'El Hekaya' on MBC Masr, he explained that after testing several Chinese EVs, his entire perspective shifted. The car he recently bought uses an onboard system that generates electricity while driving via a small gasoline engine. This approach tackles the biggest fear for BYD and other Chinese brand owners — range anxiety.

BYD's DM-i — The Direct Rival

In the Egyptian market, similar technologies are already available, most notably DM-i, the plug-in hybrid system developed by BYD. This setup combines an electric motor, a gasoline engine, and a large rechargeable battery. The key difference lies in the combustion engine's role. With DM-i, the gasoline engine can drive the wheels directly in certain scenarios, while in REEV it remains a pure generator.

Range-extended EVs offer a practical solution for Egypt. Charging infrastructure remains limited across many regions, making full electric reliance a real challenge. Having a gasoline generator on board gives drivers more flexibility without worrying about running out of charge. This trend could accelerate adoption of the BYD Song Plus and other hybrid models in Egypt.

Will These Technologies Expand in Egypt?

The Egyptian market is gradually shifting toward electric and hybrid solutions. Technologies like REEV and DM-i bridge the gap between conventional cars and full EVs. With fuel prices climbing and environmental awareness growing, this segment looks set for increased consumer attention. Yet pricing and spare parts availability remain decisive factors. Competition will heat up.