All-new JAC Hunter PHEV Ute makes global debut ahead of 2026 showroom arrival. JAC Motors has revealed the groundbreaking JAC Hunter plug-in hybrid Dual-Cab 4X4 Ute to the world at the Melbourne Motor Show.
- The JAC Hunter will set new benchmarks in electrified utility performance when it goes on sale locally in early 2026
- The JAC Hunter Dual-Cab 4X4 Ute debuts JAC’s all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and dual electric motor combination, which produces a class-leading 385kW and 1000Nm
- JAC Hunter is based on the JAC T9 Dual-Cab 4X4 Ute that ANCAP has recognised as Australia’s Safest Ute
JAC Hunter PHEV Ute
Set to arrive in Australian showrooms in 2026, the JAC Hunter represents a significant leap forward in electrified utility vehicles globally and in Australia.
The JAC Hunter will also be JAC’s most powerful and technologically advanced production vehicle when series production commences later this year.
This supremely powerful plug-in hybrid petrol-electric utility combines an efficient all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine which augments front and rear electric motors to deliver a class-leading 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque.
This powerhouse combination comfortably positions the JAC Hunter PHEV at the forefront of the rapidly evolving electrified ute segment, outstripping its plug-in hybrid rivals for real-world performance and efficiency.
“The global premiere of the JAC Hunter marks a pivotal moment in JAC Motors’ 61-year history of innovation,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director of JAC Motors Australian importer, LTS Auto.
“Australian drivers demand vehicles that offer both capability and sustainability, and the JAC Hunter delivers this without compromise.”
“We are thrilled to host this Global Premiere for JAC Motors. And we are even more thrilled to confirm that the JAC Hunter will arrive in JAC dealerships across Australia in early 2026.”
Advanced Technology Meets Practical Capability
The JAC Hunter dual-cab ute integrates cutting-edge technology throughout its practical four-door ute design. Hunter’s sophisticated petrol-electric hybrid system features a dedicated hybrid transmission. And an energy recovery system that optimises efficiency across various driving conditions.
JAC is targeting an electric-only driving range of at least 100km* from Hunter’s state-of-the-art lithium-iron phosphate battery pack. Comfortably more than its rivals and more than enough to cover most daily commutes without using a drop of fuel.
THe JAC Hunter will come with a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system. That allows owners to power tools, appliances, and even provide emergency backup power from the vehicle’s battery. Making it a versatile partner for work and adventures alike.
Inside the cabin, the JAC Hunter exhibits many of the same creature comforts that make its JAC T9 turbodiesel sibling so appealing to Australian ute buyers. The show car features a generous 10.4-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment system. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, alongside a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster.
The JAC Hunter will also feature JAC’s highly-specified driver assistance suite.
Which includes:
- enhanced autonomous emergency braking,
- adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality,
- and a 360-degree camera system.
Towing and payload
JAC has also designed the Hunter to possess the hard-working payload and towing capabilities Australians expect of a dual-cab ute. Plus, the vehicle’s advanced all-wheel-drive system. Enhanced by dual electric motor precision, aims to deliver surefooted performance and handling on and off-road.
JAC Motors conducted extensive Australian testing of the T9 on which the Hunter is based. To ensure the T9’s suspension, ADAS, powertrain and cooling systems were all validated for Australia’s harsh climate and demanding conditions.
JAC Motors’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond the Hunter’s capability for zero-emission motoring. JAC’s manufacturing process employs renewable energy sources and water conservation technologies. In line with JAC’s stated mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The JAC Hunter will arrive in Australian showrooms in the first quarter of 2026. Australian pricing and specifications will be announced closer to that time. Interested customers can register for updates at jacute.com.au or at any of JAC’s more than 60 dealers across Australia.
* Notes
1 The specifications above have been supplied by JAC China. Australian market specifications will be confirmed closer to local launch.
2 The JAC T9 Dual-Cab was recognised as Australia’s Safest Ute based on its overall weighted ANCAP safety score (tested in August 2024).
3 For more information on JAC’s All Roads Assistance (JARA) warranty, see https://jacute.com.au/jara/