Australian ute buyers will soon have another electrified option when the JAC Hunter PHEV arrives in early 2026. This plug-in hybrid dual-cab represents a significant step forward for the Chinese automaker, combining serious work capability with modern electric technology.
What Makes the Hunter PHEV Special
The Hunter PHEV isn’t just another electric vehicle trying to appeal to everyone. JAC has specifically designed this ute for Australian conditions and buyer expectations. The company chose Australia as the global launch location, showing their commitment to getting things right in our unique market.
What sets this ute apart is its impressive power delivery. The combination of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and dual electric motors produces 385kW of power and a massive 1000Nm of torque. These numbers put it ahead of many traditional diesel utes and position it as JAC’s most powerful vehicle ever.
Electric Range That Actually Works
One common concern with plug-in hybrid utes is whether the electric range is practical for daily use. The Hunter PHEV addresses this with its 32kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, delivering over 100 kilometres of pure electric driving. This means most daily commutes and local trips can happen without using any petrol.
The vehicle-to-load charging capability adds another layer of practicality. Whether you’re camping, working on a remote site, or dealing with a power outage at home, the Hunter PHEV can power your electrical equipment directly from its battery.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The Hunter PHEV will enter a growing but still limited market of electrified utes. Its main rivals include the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and the upcoming Ford Ranger PHEV. Each brings different strengths to the table.
Performance Comparison
| Specification | JAC Hunter PHEV | BYD Shark 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Power Output | 385kW | 321kW |
| Torque | 1000Nm | 650Nm |
| Electric Range | 100km+ | 100km |
| Battery Type | LFP 32kWh | LFP 29.6kWh |
| Towing Capacity | 3200kg (estimated) | 2500kg |
| Payload | 1045kg (estimated) | 835kg |
The Hunter PHEV appears to offer superior power and torque figures compared to its main competitor, while maintaining similar electric range capabilities.
What About Real-World Usability?
Numbers on paper only tell part of the story. The Hunter PHEV builds on the foundation of the existing T9 diesel ute, which has been available in Australia since late 2023. This means JAC has real-world feedback from Australian customers about what works and what doesn’t.
The diesel T9 currently offers 3200kg braked towing capacity and 1045kg payload. JAC claims the Hunter PHEV will maintain these “hard-working capabilities” that Australian ute buyers expect. If these figures hold true for the PHEV version, it would give the Hunter PHEV a significant advantage over some electric competitors.
Interior Updates
Inside, the Hunter PHEV closely resembles the diesel T9 but includes some modern touches. The most notable change is a rotary gear selector replacing the traditional gear shifter, reflecting the advanced drivetrain underneath.
Pricing and Availability Expectations
JAC hasn’t announced pricing for the Hunter PHEV yet, with details coming closer to the early 2026 launch date. However, the company will need to be competitive given the increasing options in the electrified ute space.
The timing puts JAC in an interesting position. By 2026, buyers will have had more experience with electric utes, potentially making them more comfortable with the technology. However, there may also be more competitors in the market by then.
What This Means for Buyers
The Hunter PHEV represents another step toward mainstream adoption of electric utes in Australia. For buyers considering an electric or plug-in hybrid ute, it offers:
- Strong performance figures
- Practical electric range for daily use
- Traditional ute capabilities for work and recreation
- Vehicle-to-load functionality for added versatility
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the JAC Hunter PHEV be available in Australia?
A: JAC plans to launch the Hunter PHEV in early 2026, with pricing and specifications to be announced closer to that date.
Q: How far can it travel on electric power alone?
A: The Hunter PHEV can travel at least 100 kilometres on electric power alone, thanks to its 32kWh battery pack.
Q: What’s the towing capacity compared to other electric utes?
A: JAC claims it will maintain the diesel T9’s 3200kg towing capacity, which would be higher than many electric competitors.
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