China’s Great Wall Motors cut its teeth here with cheap utilities that were snapped up by tradies a decade ago.
And now China’s largest SUV and utility manufacturer is getting ready to take its sales strategy to the next level with a 4×4 dual cab ute that is sure to have universal appeal.
It’s just released a sneak preview of its Adventure ute that will make its debut at the Shaghai motor show in a couple of weeks.
And the images suggest that the big guns of the 4×4 scene here in Oz — Ford and Toyota — have plenty to worry about.
This new ‘adventure’ model features an impressive array of off road equipment, including a built-in front winch, triple diff locks and a 7-setting All Terrain Control System.
Put these together and Great Wall claims the ute will offer segment leading four-wheel drive capabilities, with an impressive 900mm wading depth
BUT, the really big news, is that Great Wall also plans to unveil a fully electric ute at Shanghai, with a range of up to 500km.
Great Walls says it is committed to advanced cost-competitive technologies for all sustainable energy, including Fuel Cell, EV and PHEV worldwide.
The new ute is built on a new platform and adopts Great Wall’s “tough truck” design direction, words that Ford uses to describe its own utility range and Ranger.
It incorporates a new, single bar grille, high performance LED lights and carbon black wheel arches.
The rear also features LEDs, with an extended sports bar and tailgate specially designed to meet the needs of dirt bike enthusiasts.
The ute will be produced at Great Wall’s new A$1 billion Chongqing plant where the next generation HAVAL H9 seven-seat SUV will be built.
Haval, an offshoot of Great Wall, is the brand the company puts on its SUVs.
The new 4×4 dual cab ute is scheduled to go on sale in Australia and New Zealand next year.
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