Chinese carmaker JAC Motors has finished initial local testing for the upcoming JAC Hunter plug-in hybrid (PHEV) dual-cab 4×4 ute. Testing took place at the well-known Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria.
This marks an important step in preparing the Hunter for Australian driving conditions, which is expected to arrive locally in mid-2026.
Why test the ute at a local ground
The Lang Lang Proving Ground is an iconic 877-hectare automotive testing facility in Victoria, Australia, famously known as the former “secret” test site for General Motors Holden. It was designed to replicate Australia’s unique and harsh driving conditions to ensure vehicle durability.
The Lang Lang phase is part of a larger local engineering program. The goal of JAC is to adjust the vehicle for Australia’s hot climate and rough conditions, improve durability and performance and fine-tune its hybrid system.
By the end of the full development program, engineers will complete more than 50,000km of testing on Australian roads and tracks.
More: Budget-friendly 2026 JAC T9 ute prices announced
What aspects are being tested?
Engineers are examining many areas of the vehicle, including:
- Durability and vehicle dynamics
- Powertrain performance and tuning
- Towing and load-carrying ability
- On-road and off-road capability
- Acceleration and braking
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The Lang Lang testing was done with support from the independent engineering company Segula Technologies Australia.
Hybrid powertrain details
| Specification | JAC Hunter PHEV |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder petrol |
| Electric motor | Dual motor setup |
| Battery | 31.2kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) |
| Vehicle-to-load (V2L) | 3.3kW |
Australian launch timing
The JAC Hunter PHEV is expected to launch in mid-2026. It will join the existing T9 turbo-diesel dual-cab 4×4 range in Australia. Final pricing and specifications will be announced closer to launch.
The Hunter made its global debut at the 2025 Melbourne Motor Show in April. It attracted attention for its rugged styling and turbo petrol-electric hybrid system. Since then, it has continued local evaluation in Australia.
Warranty and ownership package
The Hunter will be covered by JAC’s All Roads Assurance (JARA) program, which includes a 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty (including commercial use), up to 7 years of 24/7 roadside assistance, capped-price servicing, and a warranty loan vehicle program.
More: Will Chinese cars dominate Australian roads by 2035?
Why Australia is important for JAC
JAC says Australia is a key testing market because of tough road and climate conditions, high customer expectations, and heavy vehicle usage. Results from the Australian testing program will also be shared with JAC’s global development team, meaning improvements made here could benefit customers in other countries.
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