The BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV need to watch their back, as the JAC Hunter PHEV has just been confirmed to start from under $50,000. That’s a remarkably low price for the kit it offers.
This is Australia’s fourth plug-in hybrid ute, following the Shark, Alpha and Ford Ranger PHEV. It’s based on the existing JAC T9, including its ladder-frame chassis, however, it swaps the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel for a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol plug-in hybrid.
JAC is boasting “class-leading power” with a maximum combined output of 360kW, backed up by a 31.2kWh battery and electric motors. It also comes with front and rear diff locks (there is no tailshaft, only an electric motor at the back), and offers of combined total range of 1005km.
Unlike most of those rivals, the JAC Hunter is stamped with a 3500kg braked towing capacity. Basically, there is no compromise by going with hybrid power here. JAC also confirms a payload of 915kg and an official fuel consumption average of 1.6L/100km.
JAC has been spending plenty of time in Australia testing and tuning the new model to make sure it fits our conditions. In fact, prototypes have covered around 50,000km on local soil as part of its local validation program. JAC Australia managing director Ahmed Mahmoud said:
“Our focus was simple, deliver a truly work-ready ute with class-leading power, serious towing capability and outstanding efficiency, without the premium price tag. With Hunter, we’re giving Australian buyers everything they’ve been asking for and more, at a price point that changes the conversation.”
Online reservations open today, at 5pm (AEST). The first 1000 reservations will receive either a free EV charger for the home or a $500 JAC accessory voucher. Final prices and specs will be announced very soon.
