Chery Australia is inviting the public to name its first ute model for the Australian market, a ground-breaking plug-in hybrid diesel pick-up set to launch in late 2026. The winner of the naming contest will receive the very first unit sold in the country.
Pioneering Hybrid Diesel Technology
Currently identified by its internal code KP31, this dual-cab 4×4 ute is positioned as the world’s first plug-in hybrid diesel model. It promises up to 170 kilometers of electric-only driving, complemented by a 2.5-liter turbo-diesel engine. This combination aims to provide both efficiency and the rugged capability expected of Australian work vehicles.
Why This Matters: A Shift in Ute Design
The introduction of a plug-in hybrid diesel ute is significant because it addresses a growing demand for fuel-efficient yet powerful work vehicles. Australia’s ute market traditionally favors diesel for its torque and reliability, but the integration of hybrid technology offers a solution to rising fuel costs and increasing environmental concerns.
The Naming Competition
Chery is actively seeking public input on the ute’s official name. Participants are asked to submit their suggestions along with a brief explanation justifying their choice. The company emphasizes that the final name should reflect the vehicle’s suitability for Australian conditions: long-distance driving, heavy towing, and all-terrain performance.
Performance Targets
Chery Australia’s chief operating officer Lucas Harris has stated that the ute will meet key performance benchmarks critical to Australian buyers: a 1,000-kilogram payload capacity and a 3.5-ton towing capacity. The vehicle is also expected to include features like triple-locking differentials for enhanced off-road capability.
Future Plans
The KP31 will be followed by a plug-in hybrid petrol powertrain option in 2027, aligning with other emerging hybrid ute models like the BYD Shark, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, and Ford Ranger PHEV. This expansion signals Chery’s commitment to diversifying its hybrid offerings in the Australian market.
Competition Details
The “Great Australian Chery Ute Naming Competition” is open from March 12 to March 26, 2026, at 11:50 PM AEDT. Interested participants can find more information and submit their entries on the Chery Australia website.
This naming contest highlights the importance of local adaptation for international automakers entering the competitive Australian market. By involving the public, Chery aims to create a stronger connection with potential buyers and ensure the ute’s branding resonates with Australian consumers.
