- KP31 ute unveiled in Sydney as a prototype.
- Production version this year, with diesel-PHEV powertrain.
- Plug-in petrol to follow in 2027.
Chinese brand Chery unveiled its KP31 ute at a Hybrid Showcase in Sydney this month. While it's officially a "concept", the brand's Australian distributor has confirmed it's the forerunner of a production model that will be launched there towards the end of the year.
While that doesn't automatically mean it's a starter for New Zealand, it's certainly likely: Chery's Kiwi operatation comes under the auspices of Australia and while our model ranges aren't identical, key cars are shared.
The Chery ute comes with a twist: the brand claims it's the "world's first ute to feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) diesel system."
It's yet to reveal specific technical details, but says the PHEV will be 10% more economical more a conventional diesel - which doesn't sound like a lot to us - with a 2.5-litre engine boasting 47% thermal efficiency, which does sound like a lot to us.
Chery also says it will haul 1000kg in the tray and tow 3.5 tonnes, matching traditional 1-tonne utes in key metrics.
The concept is nuggety looking but surprisingly large: 5610mm long. The production version will be trimmed back a bit, to 5450mm, or about the same as a Ford Ranger.
A petrol PHEV will also be launched in 2027.
