LDV T60 ute set for October launch

Local launch dates for LDV's T60 ute and its D90 SUV version have been locked in, according to the brand's Australian distributor, Ateco Automotive.

The T60 will officially debut on October 1, and D90 is scheduled for launch on November 15.

Ateco is confident the new models will grow sales significantly for the Chinese brand, better known in Australia for its vans. That's a reflection of the strong appeal of pick-ups in Australia, and the T60 will capitalise on that with a wide range of variants, comprising single and dual-cab body styles, and 4x2 or 4x4 manual and auto drivetrains.

The one engine available will be a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel producing 110kW. Basic dimensions will measure 5.3 metres long and 1.9 metres wide. In addition, the new model will be offered in two different levels of trim.

With all the T60 has on offer, Ateco has been encouraged to expand the LDV dealer network in Australia.

"Since its launch in Australia LDV has focused on its van and people mover ranges with the V80 and G10 vehicles," says Dinesh Chinnappa, General Manager of LDV Australia.

"Sales of this type of vehicle are primarily in metro areas, so that is where we have concentrated our dealers and our business. But the T60 and the D90 will have a much broader appeal across the whole country. The Ute and SUV markets are much bigger than the van market and they are booming. In preparation for the arrival of the T60 and D90 we are opening new dealers in country areas as well as enlarging our urban representation.

"There is little doubt that from day one, the T60 will be LDV's best-selling model in Australia, with the D90 close behind it, and this will be matched by a much higher visibility for LDV across the country.

"In short, these two new models will transform LDV's position in the market, awareness of the brand across the country and, of course, the number of vehicles we will sell."

Ateco is keeping a lid on details of the D90 until closer to its launch on November 15, but the seven-seat SUV is known to be based on the same chassis as the T60 and is expected to run the same mechanicals. As for the V80 and G10 vans, the T60 and D90 will be covered by a three-year/100,000km warranty that also provides 24-hour roadside assistance.