Two Chinese pickup trucks, the JAC Hunter PHEV and Foton Tunland, have recently entered the Australian market, marking a significant development in the country’s fiercely competitive pickup truck segment. The JAC Hunter represents a premium offering from JAC Motors, building upon the existing T9 platform. It’s positioned as a flagship model, directly competing with rivals such as the BYD Shark 6 and the Ford Ranger Raptor.
JAC Hunter Specifications And Features
The JAC Hunter boasts a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain, combining a four-cylinder petrol engine with electric motors at both the front and rear axles. This setup produces an impressive 516 hp (385 kW) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque, significantly outperforming its competitors. For comparison, the BYD Shark 6 generates 430 hp (321 kW) and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm), while the Ford Ranger Raptor produces 391 hp (282 kW) and 430 lb-ft (583 Nm) in its Australian specification.
The Hunter’s 31.2 kWh battery allows for up to 100 km of all-electric driving, and features a vehicle-to-load function, effectively turning the truck into a mobile power source. However, critical specifications such as payload capacity, towing capacity, and pricing remain undisclosed, leaving potential buyers uncertain about its overall value proposition in a market that still prioritizes workhorse capabilities.
Foton Tunland V7 And V9
Foton, traditionally known for its commercial trucks, is also entering the Australian market with its Tunland V7 and V9 models. The standard V7 is marketed as a no-nonsense workhorse, while the V9 offers enhanced suspension and luxurious features, making it a better performer on paved roads. Both models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 161 hp (120 kW) and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque.
While these Chinese models won’t be available in the US market, their entry into Australia signals the growing ambition of Chinese automotive brands to expand their global footprint in the pickup truck segment. Sales of Foton’s Tunland models have already commenced in several South American markets, indicating a broader international strategy.
