JAC Motors is bringing its all-electric T9 EV ute to Australia for a public showcase in April, marking its first local appearance at the 2025 Melbourne Auto Show. The race for electrified utes is well and truly underway with plug-in hybrids leading the charge for now. Following the abysmal sales of the only electric ute in the country – the LDV eT60, there’s a lot of room for another brand to give this space a try.
Here’s what you should know about the JAC T9 EV ute:
Local launch uncertain
As the all-electric version of the recently launched turbo-diesel JAC T9 ute, availability of the JAC T9 EV ute in local showrooms remains unconfirmed. It will be evaluated for its suitability, with feedback from industry stakeholders influencing its potential launch. This potential offering for the Australia market will be on display at the Melbourne Motor Show on April 5 and 6, alongside the diesel T9 and JAC’s futuristic DE-FINE concept.
Australia-specific approach
When JAC Motors initially revealed the T9 EV in China last year, Australian distributors suggested that it would follow the diesel-powered variant. However, the company has since softened its stance, stating that a decision is still pending.
A JAC Motors Australia spokesperson commented:
“The JAC T9 EV has a lot to offer Australian ute buyers and businesses keen to embrace zero-emission motoring. However, a decision has not been made on if or when it might come to Australia.”
Following its Melbourne showcase, the T9 EV will be tested in Western Australia’s mining sector to assess its real-world performance under demanding conditions. Feedback from both mining companies and Melbourne show attendees will be factored into JAC’s decision on an Australian launch.
Performance and powertrain
While the T9 EV closely resembles its diesel counterpart—with minor tweaks such as a closed-off grille, aerodynamic wheels, and a refined sports bar—it features an entirely different powertrain under the skin.
Key performance figures:
- Drivetrain: Dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Power Output: 220kW
- Torque: 516Nm
- 0-100km/h: 8.5 seconds
- Battery Capacity: 88kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP)
- Range (claimed, unladen): 330km
- Maximum DC Fast Charging Rate: 88kW
The T9 EV’s AWD system mirrors that of the diesel model, setting it apart from the only electric ute currently available in Australia, the rear-wheel drive LDV eT60. The upcoming LDV eTerron 9 will offer an AWD option with a higher output of up to 325kW, potentially adding further competition.
Load capacity and features
Despite its electric powertrain, the T9 EV retains much of the diesel model’s practicality.
Payload comparison:
- JAC T9 EV: 900kg
- JAC T9 Diesel: 1045kg
- GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: 685kg
- BYD Shark 6 PHEV: 790kg
While the T9 EV’s payload is slightly lower than its diesel sibling, it outperforms many electrified utes in its segment.
Other key features include:
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, enabling users to power external devices from the battery, a function shared with models like the Ford Ranger PHEV.
- Rear tub dimensions that accommodate an Australian standard pallet.
- Leather-accented interior and a suite of active safety features from the diesel T9.
Expected prices
If the JAC T9 EV gets approved for the Australian market, it will likely come at a significant premium over the turbo-diesel T9 (from $45,000 before on-road costs). For reference, the LDV eT60—Australia’s first electric ute—was priced at $92,990 before being discontinued due to poor demand. Meanwhile, hybrid alternatives like the Shark 6 PHEV (expected around $80,000) and the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV (estimated at $100,000) offer electrified options at varying price points. Stay tuned for more updates on the T9 EV’s potential arrival.
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