Haval to build hybrid ute

Haval has told journalists gathered for the launch of its updated H9 this week that it plans to build a full-size hybrid utility by 2022.

Aiming to compete with the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, the electrified model will be the first of its kind in Australia, offering a premium alternative to Haval's budget-focussed Great Wall Steed.

Detailing the new ute in a PowerPoint presentation, Haval's as-yet-unnamed model promises a 3000kg towing capacity, the choice of two and four-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and safety equipment including autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Given that Haval wants to take on the Toyota HiLux, the new hybrid ute is likely to be a dual-cab vehicle. That said, the term 'dual-cab'  ute wasn't used by Haval in its presentation and the teaser sketch has tinges of the Hyundai Santa Cruz lifestyle ute.

Haval's presentation states that an all-new platform will be deployed for the new ute. It could share its underpinnings with the next-generation H9, as Haval's head of marketing, Tim Smith, indicated the light commercial vehicle will be of body-on-frame construction.

Smith also said the hybrid powerplant will be an optional part of the model line-up, the derivative model likely diesel-powered.

"The company isn't sure if it should be badged as a Haval or [a] Great Wall," Smith said, despite the teaser image wearing a Great Wall badge on the grille.

"We'd suggest the former."

Smith also said that just like the new H9, the ute will benefit from Australianised tuning.

Haval has worked with local suspension specialists Ironman 4x4 to improve the model's ride and handling, developing heavier springs, upgrading the shock absorber valving and adjusting toe-in to address buyer feedback.

It's also expected the new ute will share the H9's six-mode All-Terrain Control System (ATCS) off-road system, high ground clearance and 700mm wading depth.

Check-out our review of the Haval H9 for more details.