Hot off the back of initial testing at the Lang Lang Proving Ground, JAC Motors is refining its Hunter dual-cab ute for Australian conditions with the expertise of Michael Barber from global engineering firm, Multimatic

“Australian roads demand specific engineering expertise, and Michael Barber has spent his career mastering exactly that,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director of JAC Motors Australia. “His understanding of what Australian drivers expect will make Hunter match-fit and ready for work.”

Barber, recognised as one of Australia’s top vehicle dynamics engineers, said: “The investment JAC is making, in both time and resources, demonstrates their commitment to developing a vehicle truly suited to Australia. JAC has sent us an impressive library of tuning components, which gives us the scope to explore different configurations and find the optimal setup. 

“Australian roads are unique – we have challenging surfaces, long distances, and demanding conditions from urban to Outback. I want customers to find Hunter easy to drive and confident across all those conditions, straight out of the box.”

He has previously played a key role in developing the Holden Commodore VE and Holden Commodore VF, and more recently has assisted international brands to adapt vehicles for diverse local conditions.

“Michael [Barber] brings a level of dynamics expertise that is rare globally and invaluable for the Australian market,” said Hongjian Jiang, JAC Motors Australia Technical Director. “His work for JAC is primarily focused on optimising Hunter’s driving dynamics for Australia, while also influencing JAC Hunter’s suspension tune for China and international markets outside Australia.”

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The local tuning program focuses on optimising the Hunter’s suspension as a fully integrated system. Each component is calibrated to work together, delivering balanced ride, precise steering and confident handling whether on tarmac, dirt tracks or carrying a full payload. JAC says the program prioritises performance across on- and off-road scenarios, ensuring the Hunter PHEV feels composed in challenging terrain while maintaining ride comfort for everyday driving.

This work is part of Hunter’s ongoing Australian development ahead of its mid-2026 launch. Australian pricing and final specifications for the Hunter will be confirmed closer to launch.

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