GAC S7 PHEV firms for Australia with 2027 right-hand-drive production
Large plug-in hybrid SUV makes Aussie public debut as GAC seeks local feedback ahead of potential 2027 launchThe News
Chinese auto giant GAC has taken another step towards launching its S7 plug-in hybrid SUV in Australia, confirming right-hand-drive production is expected to begin globally in the second half of 2027.
The Key Details
- GAC S7 makes public Australian debut at Everything Electric Sydney
- Right-hand-drive production expected from second half of 2027
- Australian launch remains under consideration rather than confirmed
- 36.3kWh battery delivers claimed 150km EV range in international specification
- AWD PHEV combines 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with front and rear electric motors
The Finer Details
The GAC S7 plug-in hybrid SUV’s potential place in the expanding Chinese brand’s Australian line-up has been highlighted by its public local debut at Everything Electric Sydney.
The large five-seat SUV was previously displayed behind closed doors at GAC’s Australian brand launch in November 2025, when company executives confirmed it was being evaluated for right-hand-drive production and a potential Australian launch.
GAC has now confirmed global right-hand-drive S7 production is expected to commence in the second half of 2027, although an Australian launch has yet to be formally locked in.
Its appearance at Everything Electric Sydney is partly intended to gauge reaction from Australian consumers as GAC considers the business case for adding the S7 to its local range.
Former GAC International Australia CEO Kevin Shu told carsales earlier this year the company planned to introduce a plug-in hybrid SUV in 2027 similar in size to the Ford Everest, but with a five-seat layout and monocoque construction rather than a ladder-frame chassis.
Those comments further pointed towards the S7, which measures about 4.9 metres long and competes in the large SUV class.
International specifications supplied by GAC for the vehicle appearing in Sydney list a 36.3kWh battery and a claimed pure-electric driving range of up to 150km.
The all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with front and rear electric motors.
The front motor produces 170kW/220Nm and the rear motor produces 80kW/250Nm, while GAC claims a combined petrol-electric driving range of up to 1020km.
Australian specifications have not been confirmed and could change before a potential local launch.
The S7 was originally revealed in China under GAC’s Trumpchi brand, but GAC has adopted a simplified branding strategy in Australia, selling vehicles from its Trumpchi, Aion and Hyptec operations under the GAC banner.
The Road Ahead
The S7 would expand an Australian GAC range that launched in late 2025 with the Aion V electric SUV, Emzoom petrol small SUV and M8 PHEV people-mover, and has since grown with the Aion UT electric hatch.
GAC also has much broader Australian expansion plans, including a new dual-cab ute due in 2027 and further electrified SUVs.
Related: GAC tests Aussie waters with S7 hybrid and Hyptec HT EV
Related: 2025 GAC M8 PHEV details and pricing
Related: China’s GAC confirms ambitious factory-backed launch and sales plan in Australia this year
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