Forthing range detailed ahead of Australian launch

Forthing has revealed Australian pricing and specifications for its first local model ahead of showroom arrivals later this month, with the electrified SUV range offered with a choice of battery-electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains priced from $36,990 drive-away. The four-variant line-up marks the beginning of the Chinese brand's local roll-out, with importer Ateco Group also planning to expand the range with additional models over the next two years.

Forthing has confirmed full pricing and specifications for the SUV that will launch the brand in Australia, with customer deliveries expected to commence shortly after the first showroom arrivals later this month.

The line-up spans two trim grades, Luxury and Exclusive, available with either a battery-electric drivetrain or a range-extender hybrid system. Pricing begins at $36,990 drive-away for the Range Extender Hybrid Luxury and tops out at $42,490 drive-away for the BEV Exclusive.

The move positions Forthing as another value-focused Chinese challenger brand targeting Australia's rapidly growing electrified vehicle segment.

“We are pleased to offer Australian new-car buyers a range of affordable options in the booming new-energy vehicle class,” said Forthing national manager Shaun Garrard.

Luxury variants arrive with an extensive safety and technology package that includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind zone warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition.

Inside, buyers receive a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, an 8.8-inch digital driver display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, imitation leather trim and a driver's seat featuring electric adjustment, ventilation and massage functions.

Stepping up to the Exclusive grade adds a power tailgate, wireless phone charging, panorama-view camera system, panoramic glass sunroof, privacy glass and upgraded six-speaker audio.

The battery-electric variant uses a front-mounted electric motor producing 150kW and 340Nm, paired with a 64kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery. Forthing claims a WLTP driving range of up to 427km and DC fast charging at up to 80kW, with a 30 to 80 per cent recharge taking approximately 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, the range-extender hybrid combines a 120kW electric motor with a 1.5-litre petrol engine that functions solely as a generator rather than directly driving the wheels. The rear-wheel-drive set-up is claimed to deliver up to 170km of WLTP electric-only range and a total driving range of up to 937km when the battery and 43L fuel tank are used together.

The launch also comes as Forthing prepares to expand its Australian presence. The company has previously confirmed plans for at least three additional models over the next 18 months, including an electrified people mover and a larger SUV, as it seeks to establish itself in the local market.

The SUV arrives with a seven-year/200,000km warranty, while servicing is required every 12 months or 15,000km for the range-extender hybrid and every 12 months or 20,000km for the BEV.

The Forthing launch range arrives as competition intensifies among Chinese brands offering electrified vehicles at increasingly aggressive price points.

A national dealer network has already been established across every Australian state, with the brand targeting further expansion as additional models arrive. Forthing has previously indicated its dealership footprint is expected to grow significantly as it rolls out a broader range of EV and hybrid vehicles over the coming years.

Australian showroom arrivals are due later this month, with prospective buyers able to register their interest through the Forthing Australia website.

How much does the Forthing Range Extender Hybrid cost?
Luxury – $36,990
BEV Luxury – $38,990
Exclusive – $40,490
BEV Exclusive – $42,490
*Prices are drive-away

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