Ultimate Efficiency: JAC Hunter PHEV Ute Challenges BYD Shark 6 with Improved Fuel Economy and Range

JAC, a Chinese auto brand, is set to enter Australia’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute market, becoming the fourth brand to do so. The upcoming JAC Hunter is expected to outperform the current top-selling BYD Shark 6 in terms of specifications.

The JAC Hunter, scheduled for release in the middle of the year, boasts impressive figures. It offers a combined fuel consumption of 1.6L/100km and a total combined driving range of 1005km, based on the NEDC cycle. This surpasses the Shark 6, which has a fuel consumption of 2.0L/100km and a total range of 800km.

Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, dual electric motors, and a 32kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Hunter delivers total system outputs of 385kW and 1000Nm. It also offers “at least” 100km of electric range and features vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability for powering small electrical appliances.

JAC has hinted at revealing more specifications and opening deposits soon for the Hunter. The company’s managing director, Ahmed Mahmoud, expressed confidence in the Hunter’s appeal to Australians seeking a capable and practical plug-in hybrid ute at a competitive price.

In addition to the Hunter, JAC will also introduce a diesel-powered ute based on the KP31 concept, followed by a petrol PHEV variant in 2027. The Hunter has undergone testing at the Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria and is set to receive a customized ride and handling package developed locally.

With its impending launch, the Hunter will join JAC’s T9 dual-cab 4×4 ute in Australian showrooms. The T9 marked JAC’s entry into the Australian market and has seen steady sales success. JAC’s expansion into the plug-in hybrid segment signals its commitment to offering innovative and environmentally friendly vehicles to customers.

Overall, JAC’s entry into Australia’s plug-in hybrid ute market with the Hunter promises to shake up the segment and provide consumers with more choice in eco-friendly and high-performance vehicles. Stay tuned for more updates on the Hunter’s specifications and pricing as its launch date approaches.