Bulk of GWM models to be localised by mid-2026
Chinese brand’s local engineering team is moving rapidly to improve the driving manners of its carsThe News
GWM Australia has confirmed to carsales its model-specific ‘AT1’ suspension tune will be applied to the bulk of its vehicles by the middle of 2026 and not held back for a mid-life update or facelift.
The Key Details
- Former Holden chassis guru Rob Trubiani working “tirelessly” at Lang Lang
- AT1 tune being applied to H6 and Cannon Alpha diesel next month
- Other models to follow suit in 2026 – announcements due shortly
The Finer Details
GWM, like many of the Chinese brands, proved long ago it can move and evolve quickly in accordance with market requirements and consumer demands, with its biggest powerplay Down Under arguably being the hiring of former Holden engineer Rob Trubiani.
Trubiani’s appointment as lead engineer for GWM Australia and New Zealand was only announced in March and yet two localised models (H6, Cannon Alpha diesel) are already on the cusp of entering production (November) so these vehicles are expected to arrive in Australia in late 2025 or early 2026.
We recently reviewed the latest H6 and compared an AT1 vehicle with the original Chinese tune and the differences were night and day.
“We’re thrilled with the rapid progress Rob has made in developing our AT1 refinements across both the H6 and Cannon Alpha,” GWM Australia marketing and communications boss Steve Maciver said.
“The results highlight our commitment to elevating engineering excellence and localisation for our Australian customers.
The Road Ahead
“By mid-2026, we expect a substantial portion of our local range to feature the new AT1 tuning, delivering a more refined, confident and locally-matched driving experience.”
carsales understands ‘a substantial portion’ to effectively mean the entirety of the line-up – save perhaps for one or two models – and can confirm the new suspension tunes are being implemented as rolling changes as opposed to model year updates or facelifts.
One of the most intriguing outcomes of the AT1 program will be if Trubiani and his team and quell the Tank 300’s tendency to stand on its nose during hard braking; previous versions actually used to lift the rear wheels off the ground in an emergency stop.
Related: GWM poised to buy former Holden proving ground
Related: GWM signs deal to “Aussify” its vehicles at Lang Lang
Related: Holden handling hero hired by GWM
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