Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially unveiled the Cannon Hi4-T plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute at the Beijing motor show. This move signals a strategic push into the rapidly expanding Australian plug-in hybrid segment, where GWM aims to compete directly with the BYD Shark 6 and the upcoming Ford Ranger PHEV.
The Cannon Hi4-T is expected to arrive in Australia toward the end of Q3 2026, providing GWM with a dual-pronged PHEV strategy alongside its larger Cannon Alpha PHEV.
Performance and Powertrain
The Hi4-T utilizes a powertrain derived from GWM’s “Tank” off-road SUV range, specifically tuned for the demands of a utility vehicle.
Key technical specifications include:
– Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder (180kW / 380Nm).
– Electric Motor: 130kW / 495Nm front motor.
– Total System Output: 310kW and 750Nm.
– Acceleration: 0–100km/h in just 6.1 seconds.
– Transmission: Nine-speed hybrid automatic.
While the BYD Shark 6 utilizes an independent rear suspension, the Cannon Hi4-T retains a live axle at the rear, a design choice common among traditional Australian utes that prioritizes durability under heavy loads. It also features a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a mechanical linkage and a locking rear differential.
Range, Battery, and Utility
Despite the inclusion of a large battery, GWM engineers have managed to tuck the spare tyre underneath the vehicle rather than mounting it in the tub, preserving cargo space.
- Battery: 33.1kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP).
- Electric Range (NEDC): 118km.
- Total Combined Range: 1,017km.
- Charging: DC fast charging can replenish the battery from 30% to 80% in approximately 18 minutes.
- Towing Capacity: While Chinese specifications list 3,000kg, the Australian division has confirmed a 3.5t braked towing rating.
- V2L Capability: A 6kW “Vehicle-to-Load” feature allows users to power tools or small appliances directly from the ute.
Interior and Technology
The cabin represents a middle ground between the standard diesel Cannon and the more luxurious Cannon Alpha. It features a significant tech upgrade, including:
– A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
– A 15.6-inch touchscreen running the new Coffee 3 infotainment system.
– Specialized software modes, including “Camp Mode” and “Sentinel Mode” for enhanced security monitoring.
Market Context: The PHEV Explosion
The timing of this launch is critical. The Australian automotive landscape is undergoing a massive shift toward electrification. In 2025, PHEVs saw a staggering 130.9% year-on-year growth, accounting for roughly half of all electric vehicle sales.
This surge is being led largely by Chinese manufacturers. GWM is currently a top player in this transition, ranking as Australia’s third-best-selling PHEV brand. By introducing the Cannon Hi4-T, GWM is positioning itself to capture a wider demographic:
1. The Value Buyer: Likely priced more aggressively than the Cannon Alpha or the BYD Shark 6.
2. The Traditionalist: Those who want hybrid efficiency but require the ruggedness of a live-axle, high-towing-capacity ute.
The Bottom Line: GWM is leveraging its growing dominance in the hybrid market to turn the “ute wars” into a high-tech battle of efficiency and capability, aiming to climb even higher in Australia’s top-selling brand rankings.
