Chery officially unveiled the “KP31” ute design prototype at a global debut in Sydney, confirming it will reach Australian showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2026. The upcoming Chery ute will be the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute. A petrol-powered PHEV variant is also confirmed to follow in 2027.
First diesel plug-in hybrid ute
The Chery KP31 will be the world’s first dual-cab ute to use a diesel plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. It is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged diesel engine and claims 47% thermal efficiency and around 10% better fuel efficiency than average diesel engines.
The production version of the ute is expected to offer 1000kg payload capacity and 3.5-tonne towing capacity. Chery is also focusing on reducing noise and vibration. The company also claims 30% less vibration in its ute compared with typical diesel powertrains.
Chery says this diesel PHEV system will be its main difference compared with its rivals. A petrol PHEV version is also planned for 2027.
More: Chery claims record 2000km range with new hybrid tech
Exterior design and dimensions
| Length | 5610mm |
| Width | 1920mm |
| Height | 1925mm |
The final production model of Chery KP31 will be slightly shorter, at about 5450mm long. The concept ute looks strong and rugged and has these exterior features:
- Large Chery lettering at the front and rear
- Snorkel for off-road use
- 285/70 R17 all-terrain tyres
- Tub rack with recovery tracks
- Matte grey paint finish
Chery KP31 ute’s rivals and production
The primary rivals for the Chery KP31 ute are the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, as well as emerging plug-in hybrid competitors like the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha.
Lucas Harris, COO, Chery Australia, said, “We’re incredibly excited to finally reveal the KP31 ute concept vehicle, and this marks the next step in bringing it to the Australian market.”
“It’s also riveting to be the first brand to offer a diesel PHEV in the dual-cab ute class, which will be our key point of difference compared to the competition.”
The production version of this ute is expected to launch in Australia in late 2026 (Q4).
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