The dawn of a new era in electrified utility vehicles is upon us, and at its forefront stands the JAC Hunter PHEV—a dual-cab 4X4 ute with enough muscle, brains, and eco-friendly swagger to redefine the standards of utility vehicles globally. Unveiled at the Melbourne Motor Show on April 4, 2025, this bold step by JAC Motors is a testimony to their 61 years of innovation and a relentless pursuit of sustainable mobility solutions.
Under the hood (or, more accurately, behind the charging port), the JAC Hunter embodies a hybrid engineering marvel. Its all-new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine works in perfect harmony with dual electric motors to belt out an impressive 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque, cementing its place as a class leader in raw performance. This powerhouse combination is designed not just for gut-punching power but for intelligent efficiency, showcasing JAC’s technical prowess.
But this ute isn’t just about brute force; it’s delightfully capable of sipping fuel sparingly, with a targeted electric-only range of at least 100km, thanks to its cutting-edge lithium-iron phosphate battery. That’s more than ample to conquer most daily commutes without even waking the petrol engine from its nap. And if that wasn’t versatile enough, the included Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system transforms the Hunter into a portable power station, ready to energize tools, appliances, or even act as an emergency power source on outdoor adventures. It’s a utility vehicle in every sense of the word—rugged, reliable, and resourceful!
Inside, the JAC Hunter doesn’t skimp on creature comforts. With a slick 10.4-inch portrait infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside an equally impressive 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, you might forget you’re behind the wheel of a utility vehicle. Advanced driver-assistance systems like enhanced autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, and a 360-degree camera system round out its arsenal, making it as tech-savvy as it is tough.
The JAC Hunter isn’t just catered to urban jungles; it’s also built to thrive on rugged terrain. Its advanced all-wheel-drive system, bolstered by the precision of dual electric motors, ensures optimal off-road handling. JAC’s extensive testing of the Hunter’s predecessor, the T9 ute (Australia’s Safest Ute in ANCAP ratings), in harsh Australian conditions further underscores the brand’s dedication to durability and localized optimization. Add to that its impressive payload and towing capabilities, and you have a ute that’s more than ready to work and play as hard as the Australian driver demands.
Beyond the nuts and bolts, the Hunter is a reflection of JAC Motors’ commitment to sustainability. From its zero-emission driving potential to a manufacturing process employing renewable energy and water conservation technologies, the vehicle embodies the company’s vision of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. It symbolizes a promise—utility without compromise, sustainability with purpose.
The JAC Hunter is set to land in Australian showrooms in early 2026, carrying with it not just electrified muscle but also the reputation of a brand that has proven its mettle across global markets. With Australian pricing and detailed specifications still under wraps, one thing’s for certain: the JAC Hunter is shaping up to be a disruptive contender in the ute market and a compelling choice for drivers who refuse to choose between performance, practicality, and the environment.
