Chery Eyes Australia with New Hybrid Ute

We’re always keeping an eye on what’s next in the ute world — because when new vehicles land, our customers expect premium canopy solutions to match. The latest development? Chery Australia has confirmed it won’t be bringing the Himla ute to local shores but is instead working on a larger, more powerful plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute, with a launch expected in 2026.

This new model is being designed specifically for right-hand drive markets like Australia. That means it’s not just an international concept — it’s a ute built with Australian drivers in mind. And if Chery delivers on its plans, MRT will be ready to offer canopy packages tailored to suit.

Key Takeaways

• Chery’s smaller Himla ute won’t launch in Australia

• A new, larger hybrid ute is in development with Aussie conditions in mind

• Powered by Chery’s fifth-gen plug-in hybrid system

• MRT is prepared to build custom-fit canopies when the new ute arrives

• Expected release: global launch in 2026

What We Know About Chery’s Upcoming PHEV Ute

Unveiled in Shanghai, the Himla ute showed Chery’s intention to break into the global pickup market. Although that specific model isn’t coming to Australia, it marks the beginning of a bigger strategy. The next model — still unnamed — will sit above the Himla and go head-to-head with heavy hitters like the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha, and Ford Ranger PHEV.

Built on a ladder-frame chassis, the new Chery ute promises robust performance for both work and adventure. It’s expected to carry features such as:

• 95km electric-only range (WLTP)

• 44.5% thermal efficiency

• Direct Hybrid Transmission (98.5% efficiency)

• Up to 340kW and 700Nm of torque

In short — this thing is built to handle Australia’s rugged landscape.

Why This Matters for MRT Customers

If Chery’s new ute hits our market, you can bet we’ll be working behind the scenes to make sure our Tradesman Package and Explorer Package are compatible from day one.

• The Tradesman Package is ideal for serious work use — with full storage systems, tough powder-coated finishes, and water/dust resistance.

• The Explorer Package suits off-road adventurers with built-in drawers, rooftop storage, and lifestyle-focused features.

We know no two utes — or customers — are the same. That’s why we custom-fit our canopies to the make, model and purpose. If Chery’s new PHEV delivers, MRT will be right there with premium canopy solutions, ready to roll.

Chery’s Ambition in the Aussie Market

Chery’s broader goal is to sell over a million vehicles globally by 2027, with Australia earmarked as a key part of that strategy. While 2024 sales didn’t quite meet their 30,000-unit goal, the company isn’t backing off — and a successful ute launch could be a major turning point.

From work-ready dual-cabs to future-forward hybrids, the Australian ute market is evolving fast. At MRT, we’re already planning for it.