A New Chinese Off-Roader Looks Ready to Take On the Jeep Wrangler

Beijing Off-Road has just revealed something genuinely unexpected: a hulking prototype that looks suspiciously similar to the Rezvani Tank. Officially called the ELMT Max, the concept was unveiled at the 2025 Guangzhou Auto Show in China. While Chinese cars aren’t allowed to be sold in the United States, many are warming up to the idea of owning one, and this prototype is a great example of why. If BAIC’s promises hold, this thing could worry established players like the Jeep Wrangler; maybe even the Hummer EV.

A Rugged Statement With a Futuristic Edge

The ELMT Max debuts a new 3D tunnel-style grille paired with adaptive LEDs and almost cartoonishly aggressive proportions. Judging purely from the visuals, its towering ground clearance, short overhangs, and oversized tyres suggest strong off-road potential. But there’s also an unmistakable sense of déjà vu. BAIC calls the design philosophy “ELEMENTAL,” yet the wedge-shaped profile and pumped-up stance nod heavily to the Rezvani Tank. While Chinese brands have rapidly improved, they’re still often inspired by other models. Still, what’s changed in recent years is the execution. The days of flimsy, bargain-bin Chinese SUVs are long gone. Build quality has climbed dramatically, and so has performance – the world’s quickest production EV is currently a Chinese car.

A Powerful Open-Air Off-Roader

One of the most surprising elements of the ELMT Max is its lack of traditional doors and roof, echoing yet another icon, the Jeep Wrangler. Owners can bolt on removable polycarbonate door guards and fender flares when venturing into rougher terrains. On top of that, the rear seatbacks can flip into the roof or flip forward to give extra cargo room. Usually hidden, the ELMT Max has its lightweight monocoque chassis exposed with integrated footsteps to give access to the roof. BAIC hasn’t revealed performance figures, but informed educated guessing has us to believe it will feature the brand’s existing 1.5-liter turbo hybrid setup that’s good for more than 400 hp. It might not match the 392 Wrangler or Bronco Raptor, but Chinese vehicles are typically far cheaper than their American or European counterparts, which is quickly becoming part of their appeal.

A Serious Contender with Global Intent

Even if the ELMT Max prototype never reaches production, it gives us a good idea of where BAIC is heading. The Chinese carmaker’s next generation of off-roaders will be adventure-focused machines built for outdoor lifestyles with a sense of theatre baked in. Although the US won’t see one in showrooms due to import restrictions, prototypes like this show why global attitudes toward Chinese cars are changing. And Chinese carmakers like BAIC continue to refine their formula, they’ll become a serious headache for fan favorites at a fraction of the price.