JAC has confirmed the Hunter PHEV will start from under $50,000 MSRP in Australia, undercutting key plug-in hybrid rivals including the BYD Shark and Ford Ranger PHEV.

BYD’s Shark launched in Australia at around $57,900 drive-away, establishing an early benchmark for the segment as one of the first mainstream plug-in hybrid dual-cab utes to reach the local market.

JAC has also confirmed the Hunter will offer a 3500kg braked towing capacity and 915kg payload across the range. Power comes from a dual system pairing a 2.0T GDI engine with dual electric motors, backed by a 31.2kWh LFP battery.

“Our focus was simple, deliver a truly work-ready ute with class-leading power, serious towing capability and outstanding efficiency, without the premium price tag,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director at JAC Motors Australia. “With Hunter, we’re giving Australian buyers everything they’ve been asking for and more, at a price point that changes the conversation.”

The 4×4 system includes front and rear differential locks and vehicle-to-load capability. JAC lists combined fuel consumption at 1.6L/100km (NEDC), with a claimed combined range of up to 1,005km under NEDC testing.

Development input came from Michael Barber of Multimatic, known for high-performance and off-road engineering programs, while the Hunter has also completed a 50,000km local validation program covering extreme heat, heavy rain, unsealed roads and long-distance touring conditions.

Reservations for the Hunter open Tuesday 5 May at 5pm AEST via jacute.com.au/hunter, with the first 1000 customers eligible for either a free home charger or a $500 JAC Genuine Accessory voucher on delivery.

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