In a strategic move that underscores Australia’s growing importance as a testing ground for next-gen electrified utes, JAC Motors has selected the 2025 Melbourne Motor Show for the global unveiling of its new plug-in hybrid model – the Hunter PHEV. Locally known as the T9 Hunter, the new vehicle is the electrified sibling of the T9 turbo-diesel, which began local deliveries in late 2024.
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Performance and powertrain
Touted as the most powerful JAC vehicle to date, the Hunter PHEV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with dual electric motors, delivering a substantial 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque. These figures surpass other plug-in hybrid competitors in the segment, including:
- BYD Shark 6: 321kW / 650Nm
- Ford Ranger PHEV: 207kW / 697Nm
- GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: 300kW / 750Nm
Battery and electric range
Fitted with a lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Hunter PHEV offers a battery capacity of 31.2kWh. JAC claims an all-electric driving range of over 100km – matching or slightly trailing key competitors such as the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV (110km) and BYD Shark 6 (100km), but clearly exceeding the Ranger PHEV’s 49km.
To further enhance efficiency between charging stops, the Hunter PHEV also features an energy recovery system—likely regenerative braking—to extend its electric range during daily driving.
Towing and payload targets
While final specifications remain under wraps, JAC says the Hunter PHEV is being engineered to meet the practical demands of Australian ute buyers. It is targeting:
- Payload: 1000kg
- Braked towing capacity: 3500kg
These targets position the Hunter PHEV to compete directly with diesel-powered utes that dominate the segment. For reference, the diesel-powered T9 currently offers a 1045kg payload and 3200kg towing capacity.
Features and safety
Inside the cabin, the Hunter PHEV introduces a rotary gear selector and retains modern amenities such as:
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality
In terms of safety, the Hunter PHEV will come equipped with:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- 360-degree surround-view monitor
JAC has confirmed the new model will share its platform with the T9 ute, which has undergone local tuning and calibration and achieved a five-star ANCAP safety rating—suggesting strong safety credentials for the upcoming PHEV variant.
Launch and market positioning
The JAC Hunter PHEV is expected to arrive in Australian showrooms in the first quarter of 2026. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, its key rivals are priced as follows:
- BYD Shark 6: from $57,900 plus on-road costs
- GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: from $63,990 drive-away
- Ford Ranger PHEV: from $71,990 plus on-road costs
Further details including confirmed specifications and local pricing will be announced closer to launch. In the meantime, JAC encourages interested customers to register their interest via its website or through authorised dealers.
JAC at the Melbourne show
Alongside the Hunter PHEV, JAC will also display the all-electric T9 EV and the sleek De-Fine concept at the 2025 Melbourne Motor Show. The showcase highlights the brand’s growing commitment to electrified transport in the Australian market.
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