The Evolution of the SRM Jinhaishi: From Commercial Workhorse to Modern Chinese MPV
The SRM Jinhaishi is a Chinese minivan and multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Shineray Group under its SRM brand. Introduced in 2021, the Jinhaishi was developed to serve both commercial and passenger transportation markets, offering a modernized interpretation of the traditional rear-wheel-drive van formula that has long been popular throughout China and other emerging markets. Although relatively new compared with many established MPV nameplates, the Jinhaishi has already expanded into multiple variants and trim levels while gaining attention in export markets.
Origins and Background
The SRM brand emerged from the restructuring of the former Jinbei commercial vehicle business. Shineray Group, through Brilliance Xinyuan, continued development of light commercial vehicles that were historically associated with the Jinbei name. The Jinhaishi was created as part of a broader effort to modernize the company’s lineup while maintaining affordability and practicality. The model is closely related to the Jinbei Haise X30L platform, although it received a redesigned front-end appearance and updated interior features. Production began in Chongqing, China, in September 2021.
The vehicle was designed primarily for businesses, shuttle operators, cargo transport companies, and large families seeking a low-cost people mover. Unlike many modern front-wheel-drive MPVs, the Jinhaishi retained a rear-wheel-drive layout and a traditional van architecture focused on durability and load-carrying capability.
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2021: Introduction of the First-Generation SRM Jinhaishi
The SRM Jinhaishi entered production in 2021 as a midsize MPV. It featured a 5-door wagon body style, a wheelbase of 125.4 inches (3,185 mm), and a rear-wheel-drive configuration. The vehicle was positioned as a practical alternative to more expensive commercial vans and MPVs.
At launch, several seating configurations were offered, including:
- 2-seat cargo versions
- 5-seat passenger versions
- 6-seat passenger versions
- 7-seat passenger versions
- 9-seat passenger versions
Engine offerings varied by market and trim level and included:
- 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine
- 1.6-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine
- 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine
All engines were paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
Early Trim Levels
The Jinhaishi lineup quickly expanded into several trim families. While naming conventions varied by market and translation, the most common trim designations included:
Travel Lion Series
- Travel Lion 5-Seat
- Travel Lion 6-Seat
- Travel Lion 7-Seat
- Travel Lion 9-Seat
Engineering Lion Series
- Engineering Lion 5-Seat
- Engineering Lion 6-Seat
- Engineering Lion 7-Seat
- Engineering Lion 9-Seat
Certain markets also received special commercial variants featuring enhanced air conditioning systems and simplified interiors for fleet use.
2022: Expansion with the Jinhaishi M
In July 2022, SRM introduced the smaller SRM Jinhaishi M. This model was positioned beneath the standard Jinhaishi and was based on the Jinbei Haixing X30 platform. While sharing a similar front-end design, it featured a shorter wheelbase and more compact dimensions.
The Jinhaishi M was designed for customers needing a smaller, more maneuverable van while retaining much of the practicality of the larger model.
Key specifications included:
- Length: 180.1 inches (4,575 mm)
- Rear-wheel drive
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Seating for up to 8 passengers
Engine options included:
- 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing approximately 112 horsepower
- 1.6-liter gasoline engine producing approximately 120 horsepower
The Jinhaishi M expanded the product family and allowed SRM to compete in a broader segment of the Chinese commercial vehicle market.
Jinhaishi M Trim Levels
Known trim levels included:
Travel Lion
- 5-Seat Travel Lion
- 6-Seat Travel Lion
- 7-Seat Travel Lion
Engineering Lion
- 5-Seat Engineering Lion
- 6-Seat Engineering Lion
- 7-Seat Engineering Lion
These variants catered to both passenger and commercial buyers.
2023: Expanded Configurations and Powertrain Choices
By 2023, the Jinhaishi range had become significantly more diverse. Additional seating combinations and specialized commercial configurations were introduced.
Notable trims offered during this period included:
Standard Jinhaishi
Travel Lion Models
- 5/6/7-Seat Travel Lion
- 9-Seat Travel Lion
Engineering Lion Models
- 5/6/7-Seat Engineering Lion
- 9-Seat Engineering Lion
Magic Lion
- 9-Seat Magic Lion
The 2.0-liter engine became increasingly prominent in higher-specification models, producing approximately 150 horsepower. Meanwhile, the 1.5-liter engine remained available as the entry-level option for cost-conscious buyers.
2024โ2025: Continued Development
The first-generation Jinhaishi remained in production through 2024 and 2025 without a major redesign. Instead, SRM focused on expanding the range through specialized commercial and alternative-fuel versions.
Among the notable offerings were:
- 2.0-liter Engineering Lion Coach
- CNG-powered Engineering Lion variants
- Passenger-oriented Travel Lion models
- Fleet-focused commercial versions
The model continued to emphasize affordability, ease of maintenance, and passenger capacity rather than advanced luxury features. High-roof versions also became available in some markets, improving cargo and passenger space.
International Expansion
The Jinhaishi has gradually entered export markets outside China. In Russia, the vehicle has been marketed under alternative branding and has attracted interest as a low-cost commercial van. Reports indicate local assembly arrangements have been developed to support regional sales. This international expansion represents an important step for the SRM brand as it seeks to increase its global presence.
Design Philosophy
The Jinhaishi reflects a design philosophy focused on practicality rather than luxury. Key characteristics include:
- Rear-wheel-drive layout
- Long wheelbase design
- High passenger capacity
- Large cargo area
- Simple mechanical components
- Manual transmission availability
These traits make the vehicle particularly attractive for commercial operators, shuttle services, and small businesses seeking low operating costs.
Future Outlook
As of 2026, the SRM Jinhaishi remains in production. Industry trends suggest that future updates could include improved safety equipment, more efficient powertrains, expanded alternative-fuel options, and additional export-market variants. Given China’s increasing emphasis on electrification, an electric or hybrid derivative is also a possibility, although no production version has been officially announced.
The Jinhaishi’s success demonstrates continued demand for affordable, rear-wheel-drive commercial MPVs. While many manufacturers have shifted toward more car-like crossovers and front-wheel-drive vans, SRM has maintained a traditional approach that continues to appeal to fleet operators and businesses.
Since its debut in 2021, the SRM Jinhaishi has evolved from a single commercial van into a broader family of passenger and utility vehicles. The introduction of the smaller Jinhaishi M in 2022, the expansion of Travel Lion, Engineering Lion, and Magic Lion trims, and the addition of various seating and powertrain configurations have allowed SRM to serve a wide range of customers. Although still a relatively young model line, the Jinhaishi has established itself as an important player in China’s commercial MPV market and appears well positioned for continued growth in both domestic and international markets.
