When JAC rolled into Fieldays last year with a bold orange prototype, they weren’t just showing off. They were listening. And after twelve months of “Tested By Kiwis, For Kiwis” development, the wraps are finally off the T9 PHEV Ute, and it’s a machine that’s managed to tick pretty much every box Kiwi tradies have been demanding.
The specs? Seriously impressive
We’re talking 360kW of power, up to 1,005km of combined hybrid range, 100km of pure EV range, and the ability to tow 3,500kg of braked load. For context, that’s the kind of performance envelope that makes this New Zealand’s most powerful hybrid ute. Oh, and it scored five stars with ANCAP, making it our safest hybrid ute too. Not bad for a vehicle that still comes with a built-in pie warmer. Yes, that’s still a thing, and honestly, we’re here for it.
Engineering a Ute That Actually Works Like a Ute
Here’s what makes the T9 PHEV different: JAC didn’t bolt some electric motors onto a standard platform and call it a day. They took their proven commercial vehicle heritage, (over 60 years of truck manufacturing and EV expertise) and electrified the whole thing from the ground up.
The drivetrain setup is clever. Dual electric motors work in tandem with a 2-litre petrol engine and a 4-speed transmission that keeps the combustion engine operating in its sweet spot. Translation: consistent, predictable power whether you’re towing, hauling, or heading off-road. Speaking of off-road credentials, the T9 doesn’t mess around. Front, rear, and centre differential locks, dedicated off-road and crawl drive modes, plus easy quick-access buttons make switching between bitumen and backcountry terrain straightforward and intuitive. This isn’t a compromise vehicle trying to be something it’s not, it’s a genuine working ute that happens to be electrified.
Tech and Comfort That Doesn’t Skimp
The spec sheet reads like someone finally listened to what Kiwi workers actually want. You get a 360-degree camera, a full suite of safety and driver-assist features, premium interior trim, and advanced infotainment.It’s top-spec technology without the price tag that usually comes with it.
The Price That’s Got Everyone Talking
And here’s where things get genuinely interesting. The T9 PHEV is launching at a limited-time pre-sale price of $59,990 + ORC. As JAC’s General Manager Andrew Craw put it: “you’d be forgiven for thinking we’ve made a pricing mistake.” In the PHEV ute segment, that’s the sharpest price in the market. For a vehicle that delivers the most power and the highest safety rating, that’s a genuinely compelling proposition for Kiwi businesses and tradies who’ve been waiting for an electrified ute that doesn’t compromise on capability or cost.
Where to See It (And Grab a Free Pie)
Stock is estimated to arrive late-July to early-August 2026, and pre-orders are open now at www.jac.co.nz/phev.If you’re heading to Fieldays, JAC will be on-site with demo units, test drives on their dedicated track, and (because they clearly understand the Kiwi spirit) free pies for everyone.
The wait is over. The T9 PHEV is exactly what New Zealand’s working community has been asking for: a proper ute, properly electrified, at a price that doesn’t break the bank. And yeah, it’ll keep your lunch warm too.
