GWM Cannon Alpha details revealed
Australia’s most popular utes were already under assault from a Chinese rival and the war is about to get a whole lot worse.
China has fired fresh shots in its drive to claim ground in the Australian car industry.
Great Wall Motors has locked in Australian pricing for its plug-in hybrid GWM Cannon Alpha ute, a rival to the BYD Shark that promises to take ground from segment leaders such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger.
Priced from $63,990 drive-away, the GWM Cannon Alpha promises up to 110km of electric driving range, or 880km with a fully charged battery and a full tank of fuel.
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It should be quicker than most utes, with combined 300kW and 750Nm emanating from a 120kW electric motor and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor with 180kW and 380Nm.
Expected fuel economy of 1.7L/100km is impressive on paper, but like all plug-in hybrids, that figure could be hard to match in the real world.
Other important numbers include 3500kg maximum towing capacity that matches the Ranger and betters the Shark, maximum water wading depth of 800mm, and a sturdy 2.81 tonne kerb weight.
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Tech includes twin 12.3 inch display screens in a generously appointed cabin that includes dual-zone climate control, wireless smartphone mirroring and a 360 degree camera.
A premium Ultra version priced from $68,990 drive-away adds features including a panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker hi-fi, a head-up display, leather seats and more.
The new machine will put pressure on BYD’s Shark – the first plug-in hybrid ute sold in Australia – as well as Ford’s upcoming Ranger Stormtrak PHEV.
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GWM spokesman Steve Maciver said the Cannon Alpha will “redefine electrification in the highly competitive utility segment”.
“It delivers advanced EV sophistication without compromising on its strength and capability,” he said.
“This is evidenced by true 4x4 off-road performance and class-leading 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity, which remain critical for consumers.”
The Cannon Alpha PHEV is available for pre-order now.
Originally published as GWM Cannon Alpha details revealed
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