Chery’s Diesel Plug-In Hybrid Ute Confirmed for Australia – Arriving Late 2026

A major shake-up is coming to the Australian ute market.

Chery has confirmed it will launch what’s being described as the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid dual-cab ute in Australia, due in showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Codenamed KP31, the all-new Chery ute will combine traditional diesel workhorse capability with modern plug-in hybrid technology — positioning it as a direct rival to the Ford Ranger PHEV, BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV.

For Australian tradies and fleet buyers looking for serious towing capacity with improved efficiency, this could be one of the most significant new ute launches in years.

Diesel Plug-In Hybrid – A First for Australia

Unlike petrol-based plug-in hybrid utes already on the market, Chery’s new dual-cab will debut with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine paired with plug-in hybrid technology.

Key targets announced so far include:

• 1000kg payload capacity
• 3500kg braked towing capacity
• Mechanical locking differentials
• Expected live rear axle (diesel variant)
• Traditional four-wheel-drive capability

If achieved, those numbers would match leading diesel utes such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger — while potentially improving fuel efficiency through electrification.

Chery claims its new 2.5-litre diesel engine delivers:

• 47% thermal efficiency (class-leading claim)
• 30% less vibration
• 10% better fuel efficiency than the “average diesel powertrain”

Importantly, this efficiency claim does not yet include the added benefits of the plug-in hybrid battery system.

Serious Workhorse Intentions

Chery Australia has made it clear this ute is not just about technology — it’s about capability.

Senior engineers have visited Australia to study off-road conditions and benchmark rivals including:

• Ford Ranger
• Mitsubishi Triton
• Other leading dual-cab utes

Executives have also suggested:

• Leaf springs are likely on the diesel variant
• A low-range transfer case is under consideration
• Front and rear locking differentials will be available

This signals that Chery is targeting genuine off-road credibility — not just lifestyle appeal.

How It Compares to Other Plug-In Hybrid Utes

If it meets its stated targets, the Chery diesel PHEV could outperform current electrified ute rivals in key areas:

That would position the Chery as one of the most capable plug-in hybrid utes in Australia.

Petrol Plug-In Hybrid to Follow

In 2027, Chery is expected to introduce a petrol plug-in hybrid version of the ute.

Unlike the diesel workhorse, the petrol PHEV is expected to focus more on:

• Highway comfort
• Independent rear suspension
• Lifestyle and daily driving refinement

This two-powertrain strategy could allow buyers to choose between off-road capability and on-road comfort.

Size & Presence

The concept shown in Sydney features bold, boxy styling and strong Chery branding.

Expected showroom dimensions:

• Approx. 5450mm long
• Larger overall footprint than a Ranger or HiLux
• Similar in length to the BYD Shark 6

Wheel offset and specifications were reportedly influenced by Australian dealer consultation — highlighting the brand’s intent to tailor the ute for local buyers.

A New Era for Hybrid Work Utes?

As fuel efficiency and emissions regulations continue to evolve, plug-in hybrid utes are becoming increasingly relevant for:

• Tradies
• Fleet operators
• Caravan owners
• Off-road enthusiasts

If Chery can deliver diesel torque, strong towing capability and improved efficiency in one package, it could significantly disrupt the established ute hierarchy.

With arrival expected between October and December 2026, more details on pricing, battery capacity and electric driving range are expected closer to launch.

Stay Updated with Tynan

The dual-cab ute market is evolving rapidly — and electrified work vehicles are set to play a major role in its future.

To stay informed about upcoming ute releases and hybrid work vehicles, keep an eye on the Tynan blog for the latest updates.

For now, explore our current Tynan Chery Wollongong stock here or our utes here.

Source

Drive.com.au – Chery ute: ‘World’s first’ diesel plug-in hybrid dual-cab due in Australia late 2026 (23 February 2026)