Final names shortlisted from public submissions for Chery’s hybrid diesel ute

Chery Australia has narrowed the field in its nationwide naming competition for the brand’s upcoming plug-in hybrid diesel ute, revealing a shortlist of nine names from more than 20,000 submissions.

Set to arrive in local showrooms later this year, the all-new ute has been developed with Australian conditions in mind. Chery says it will offer a 1000kg payload, 3500kg braked towing capacity and a diesel-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain aimed at combining traditional towing grunt with improved efficiency.

The public call-out drew entries from across the country, with Australians asked to nominate a name that captured the character of the new dual-cab and explain why it suited the vehicle. According to Chery, the shortlisted entries were shaped by themes of toughness, performance and durability, reflecting the way Aussies view utes as both hard-working tools and lifestyle vehicles.

“We asked Australians to help name this ute, and they delivered in a big way. The shortlisted names show just how passionate Aussies are about utes, but also how they’re thinking about the next generation of vehicles as new energy technology evolves,” said Lucas Harris, Chief Operating Officer, Chery Australia.

The nine shortlisted names are:

• Outrider: Inspired by pioneers scouting new territory, highlighting capability and long-range potential
• Orca: Draws on strength, intelligence and adaptability
• Ironbark: A nod to the tough native eucalyptus, reflecting durability
• Bushwalker: Captures Australian adventure and all-terrain ability
• Stockman: References outback heritage and dependable workhorse credentials
• Longreach: Suggests long-distance touring and rural toughness
• Ridgeback: Evokes rugged terrain and durable performance
• Terra: Derived from the Latin word for earth, linking to versatility
• Mate: A distinctly Australian name emphasising trust and everyday usability

The competition now moves to the public voting stage, with Australians soon set to choose their preferred name before the final winner is announced.

Whoever submitted the winning name will receive the first example of Chery’s new plug-in hybrid diesel ute when it lands in Australia later this year.