GWM has unveiled the Tank 500 Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), the latest addition to its SUV range. The large hybrid SUV pairs a spacious, feature-rich interior with off-road capability and an electrified powertrain.
The Tank 500 Hi4-T is scheduled to arrive in Australia in late 2025 and reflects GWM’s plan to expand its hybrid lineup, alongside the H6 and Cannon Alpha PHEV models.
Prices for the GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T are expected to be announced closer to launch.
Design and interior luxury
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The GWM Tank 500 has already built a reputation as GWM’s premium large SUV, and the Hi4-T variant builds further on this foundation. Buyers can expect:
- Premium cabin materials and a refined finish
- Seating capacity goes down from seven to five, third-row removed to make room for the larger battery and the second-row gets roomier
- Modern infotainment system integrated with driver-focused technology
- Attention to comfort and convenience features designed to rival established large SUV competitors
The all-new GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV will be offered in four exterior colours- Onyx Silver, Crystal Black, Marble White and Dune Gold, with metallic finishes available for an additional $595. Inside, buyers can choose between a Black Nappa leather interior or a Blue/Cream Nappa leather option, the latter exclusively paired with Marble White and Crystal Black exteriors.
Performance and hybrid technology
At the core of the new model is GWM’s Hi4-T plug-in hybrid technology, which is designed to deliver both performance and efficiency. Key benefits of the Hi4-T system include:
- Extended electric driving capability (figures to be confirmed closer to launch)
- Instant torque and strong acceleration, useful for heavy-duty towing
- Improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional petrol engines
- Seamless transition between electric and petrol power for balanced driving dynamics
- Mechanical 4WD capability (claimed)
GWM has engineered the Hi4-T system to complement the Tank 500’s rugged platform, ensuring that the SUV maintains its reputation for strength and capability even as it adopts a more sustainable powertrain.
GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T powertrain specifications
Here are the key specifications:
| Specification | Hybrid Version | Hi4-T PHEV Version |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Gearbox | 9-Speed Hybrid Automatic (9HAT) | 9-Speed Hybrid Automatic (9HAT) |
| Combined Power (kW) | 255 kW | 300 kW |
| Combined Torque (Nm) | 648 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Engine Output (kW) | 180 kW @ 5,500–6,000 rpm | 180 kW @ 5,500–6,000 rpm |
| Engine Torque (Nm) | 380 Nm @ 1,700–4,000 rpm | 380 Nm @ 1,700–4,000 rpm |
| Motor Output (kW) | 78 kW | 120 kW |
| Motor Torque (Nm) | 268 Nm | 400 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h (seconds) | 8.5 sec | 6.9 sec |
| Fuel Consumption (NEDC) | 8.5 L/100 km | 2.1 L/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions (g/km) | 199 g/km | 47 g/km |
| EV-only Range (NEDC) | – | 120 km |
| Battery Capacity | 1.76 kWh | 37.11 kWh |
| Battery Chemistry | – | Nickel Manganese Cobalt |
| Fuel (RON) | 91 | 91 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
Rugged capability meets electrification
Unlike many hybrids that focus primarily on city use, the Tank 500 Hi4-T retains the brand’s focus on off-road strength. Drivers can expect:
- Durable chassis and suspension built for challenging terrains
- Hybrid power delivery that enhances traction and towing capacity
The Hi4-T system features a “true mechanical 4WD system” with a non-decoupling structure and offers up to three locking differentials. So, the driver gets the choice of 2H, AWD, 4H Lock and 4L Lock, as well as numerous driving modes, making the Tank 500 a rather capable and rugged SUV.
Launch timeline
The GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms in Q4 2025. This launch follows a busy year for the brand, which has already introduced plug-in hybrid variants of the H6 GT, Cannon Alpha, and H6.
Final thoughts
The GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid represents the brand’s strongest push yet into the premium SUV market. With its combination of flagship luxury, rugged capability, and advanced hybrid powertrain, it offers a distinctive alternative in Australia’s growing electrified SUV segment.
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