GWM (Great Wall Motor) is preparing for an aggressive 2026, with up to 10 new and updated models scheduled to launch. The expansion will significantly expand the brand’s New Energy Vehicle (NEV) portfolio, including plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric vehicle (BEV), and a new diesel powertrain.
It also plans to expand its staff and dealerships to achieve 60,000+ sales in 2026. The strategy is designed to align with Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES) and evolving customer demand.
Key 2026 model confirmations
The Chinese carmaker mentioned these models arriving in 2026:
- GWM Tank 300 Hi4-T (April arrival)
- GWM Haval Jolion Max (mid-size SUV)
Plus, an all-new 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine will debut globally in Australia and will feature in:
- GWM Cannon Alpha ute
- GWM Tank 500 SUV
Ora and Wey updates
Additionally, at least 2 new Ora models will arrive in 2026, strengthening GWM’s EV lineup. Plug-in hybrid tech may also be introduced to the Ora range.
GWM will launch “Wey”, its first premium marque, in Australia in the second half of 2026.
More: 2026 GWM Ora electric hatch launches from $35,990
Leadership comments
John Kett, COO, GWM ANZ, said, “Several years ago, GWM made a deliberate choice to design Hi4 and Hi4-T as class-leading examples of four-wheel electrification, engineered for outstanding performance both on and off-road. This relentless focus on innovation and continuous improvement is what we firmly believe will drive the next phase of our growth in Australia.”
“Product is only one element of success. Expanded dealer network coverage, enhanced aftersales support, improved parts availability, and comprehensive technical training will form the core foundations of our pursuit of a top-five position. These are non-negotiable.”
Electrification expansion
Electrification remains central to GWM’s strategy. The brand’s Hi4 and Hi4-T powertrains will expand across more models.
The GWM Cannon will adopt the Hi4-T PHEV architecture in mid-2026. GWM says this will make it the only OEM offering two PHEV variants in the ute segment.
‘Drive to Top 5’ ambition
GWM is targeting a Top 5 brand position in Australia by the end of 2027, and it is targeting 60,000+ sales in 2026. To support this, the company is investing beyond the product. Their dealer network expansion includes:
- 10% increase in dealerships
- Growth from 123 to 135 sites nationwide
- New flagship dealership opening in Rockingham, WA (April 2026) with ~1,000 sqm floor space and new-generation retail design
Internal growth
The key areas for internal growth include increasing staff numbers by 20% within six months and appointing Samuel Mulkearns (as Head of Go-to-Market & Product Planning), Carlo Jacobs (as Head of Customer Experience & Technical Service), and Aniket Nadkarni (as Head of Parts, Accessories & Logistics).
More: GWM claims top Chinese brand spot in Australia for 2025
Shifting from growth to scale
After delivering nearly 53,000 vehicles in Australia in 2025 (a record year for the brand), GWM is moving from growth to scale in 2026. With new diesel, PHEV and BEV offerings across SUVs, passenger cars and utes, plus network and staffing expansion, 2026 shapes as the brand’s most aggressive year yet in Australia.
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