GWM is expanding its electrified ute range with the all-new Cannon Hi4-T PHEV, combining a 310kW plug-in hybrid powertrain, mechanical four-wheel drive and a claimed 115km of electric-only range.
The new model will sit alongside the larger Cannon Alpha Hi4-T PHEV, giving GWM two plug-in hybrid utes in the New Zealand market.
While local pricing, specifications and launch timing are yet to be confirmed, GWM says the Cannon Hi4-T PHEV will become one of the most affordable plug-in hybrid utes available in New Zealand.
310kW and 750Nm
At the heart of the Cannon PHEV is GWM’s Hi4-T hybrid system, developed specifically for body-on-frame four-wheel drive vehicles.
The powertrain combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a high-output electric motor, producing a claimed combined output of 310kW and 750Nm.
Rather than relying solely on electric motors to provide four-wheel drive, the Hi4-T system retains a conventional transmission and mechanical four-wheel drive system.
That distinction is important for a vehicle intended to tow, tour and travel off-road. GWM says the layout allows the Cannon to retain the durability and predictable power delivery expected from a traditional four-wheel drive ute, while gaining the efficiency and low-speed response of an electrified powertrain. Braked towing capacity is rated at 3500kg.
Up to 115km of electric driving
A 33.1kWh battery provides a claimed 115km of electric-only driving range under the NEDC testing cycle.
That should be enough for many owners to complete their normal weekday commuting without using the petrol engine, provided they are able to charge regularly.
GWM claims combined fuel consumption of 2.4L/100km under NEDC testing, although, as with all plug-in hybrids, real-world consumption will depend heavily on how frequently the vehicle is charged and the type of driving it is used for.
Once the battery’s usable charge has been depleted, the petrol engine allows the Cannon to continue travelling without the charging and range limitations associated with a fully electric ute.
Total combined driving range is claimed at up to 1037km under NEDC testing.
Power for tools and camping equipment
The Cannon Hi4-T PHEV will also feature Vehicle-to-Load capability, allowing energy stored in the battery to power external electrical equipment.
Integrated 230V outlets in the tub can be used to run power tools, camping equipment and other appliances without requiring a separate generator or auxiliary power station.
For recreational users, that could mean running lighting, refrigerators, cooking equipment or charging devices while camping remotely. For commercial buyers, the same system could provide power for tools or equipment on a worksite.
A second plug-in hybrid ute for GWM
The Cannon Hi4-T PHEV joins the larger Cannon Alpha Hi4-T PHEV in GWM’s New Zealand range.
That gives the manufacturer two distinct plug-in hybrid ute models, while the wider Cannon line-up now spans multiple body styles and petrol, diesel and electrified powertrains.
The smaller Cannon should also provide a more accessible alternative to the Alpha for buyers who want plug-in hybrid performance without moving into a larger premium ute.
GWM has not yet confirmed how the New Zealand model will be positioned, what grades will be offered or how closely its specification will mirror versions sold overseas.
Further details, including pricing and local availability, will be announced closer to launch.
Customers can register their interest through the GWM New Zealand website.
GWM Cannon Hi4-T PHEV: key figures
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol
Electric motor: High-output traction motor
Combined output: 310kW
Combined torque: 750Nm
Battery: 33.1kWh
Electric-only range: 115km claimed, NEDC
Combined driving range: 1037km claimed, NEDC
Fuel consumption: 2.4L/100km claimed, NEDC
Drivetrain: Mechanical four-wheel drive
Towing capacity: 3500kg braked
Additional equipment: Vehicle-to-Load capability and integrated 230V tub outlets
Claimed fuel consumption and driving-range figures are based on NEDC testing and are intended for comparison purposes. Real-world results will vary depending on charging frequency, vehicle load, driving conditions, terrain, weather and driving style.
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