Electric Utes Headed to Australia – A Look Ahead

 

Carsales has just released a detailed article highlighting the electric utes set to arrive in Australia, and it’s generating quite the buzz across the industry. With several new models from well-known and emerging brands on the way, the EV ute landscape is set to change dramatically. Here at MRT, we’re closely following these developments to ensure that our premium ute trays and canopies will perfectly complement every new model that hits Australian roads.

 

A Wave of Electric Utes is Coming to Australia

Australia’s automotive scene is gearing up for a significant shift as more electric utes are poised to join the market. Although diesel utes currently reign supreme, the tide is turning as EV options from major brands, such as Ford, Toyota, and Kia, as well as up-and-coming manufacturers, are set to make their mark. The electric vehicle (EV) market is already growing steadily in Australia, but the ute segment has largely remained untouched—until now.

These electric utes will span the spectrum from mid-size models like the popular Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux (which are both working on their own electric versions), to full-size pick-ups and lifestyle-focused EV utes. Below, we’ll outline the details from CarSales’ insightful roundup, focusing on the EV utes expected to land in Australia over the next few years—including full battery-electric models and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles.

 

EV Utes Already on the Scene

 

 

LDV eT60

The LDV eT60 was a trailblazer as the first battery-electric mid-size ute sold through a national distributor in Australia. With an 88.5kWh battery and a range of up to 330km (WLTP), it’s set to be replaced later this year with an updated model expected to improve in all key areas, including a new 4×4 option and an extended range of over 600km.

Riddara RD6

Another anticipated arrival is the Riddara RD6, the export version of Geely’s Radar RD6. Set for a 2024 release in Thailand, this model is likely to make its way to Australia shortly after, offering two battery capacities and proper ute proportions, designed for both utility and performance.

Tembo Tusker

Aimed at fleet users, the Tembo Tusker is currently going through ADR approval and is expected to offer both single- and dual-cab variants. With a price starting at $74,000 plus GST and on-road costs, the Tusker boasts a driving range of up to 400km, a 1000kg payload, and a towing capacity of 3000kg.

Toyota HiLux Revo BEV

Toyota’s HiLux Revo BEV concept showcases the brand’s commitment to electrifying their popular HiLux. Scheduled to start production in late 2025, the Revo BEV could make its way to the Australian market in the first half of that year.

Toyota HiLux FCEV

Toyota UK is also converting the diesel HiLux into a hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV), with ten prototypes in development. One or more of these prototypes may be brought to Australia for testing, paving the way for a future HiLux lineup that could feature diesel, hybrid, BEV, and FCEV powertrains.

Isuzu D-MAX EV

Isuzu’s electric D-MAX is nearly production-ready and comes equipped with a 130kW/325Nm dual-motor powertrain and a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery. It’s set for release in Norway next year and retains key capabilities like a towing capacity of 3500kg and a 1000kg payload.

Foton Tunland G7 EV

The Foton Tunland G7 EV marks the Chinese brand’s return to Australia, expected to arrive in the second half of next year. With a range of 500km, 130kW/330Nm outputs, a 1090kg payload, and a 3000kg towing capacity, it’s designed for both practicality and performance.

 

Upcoming EV Utes to Watch For

 

Kia Tasman EV

Kia is preparing to launch its highly anticipated Tasman ute in 2025, and a battery-electric variant is part of the plan. While specs remain under wraps, it’s expected to carry a large battery similar to that of the EV9 SUV, setting the Tasman up as a strong contender in the growing electric ute market.

Hyundai IONIQ T7 and T10

Hyundai is developing two electric utes—the lifestyle-oriented IONIQ T7 and the larger IONIQ T10, which will compete with the Ford F-150 Lightning. Though details remain scarce, Hyundai has indicated that these models are still some way off from an official Australian release.

JAC T9 Hunter

JAC is gearing up to release an electric version of its T9 ute in 2025, following the launch of its turbo-diesel model. The EV version is expected to feature a 150kW/290Nm single-motor powertrain, a 77kWh battery, and a range of 300km (WLTP).

GWM Cannon EV

GWM’s electric ute has been in development for some time, with preliminary specifications released in 2021. While an exact timeline hasn’t been confirmed, the EV Cannon remains part of GWM’s future strategy.

SsangYong O100

The SsangYong O100 is set to be a compact electric pick-up positioned below the Musso. The O100 will incorporate BYD battery technology and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, with further details to be announced as development progresses.

Ford Ranger EV

Ford is hinting at an all-electric Ranger to complement its F-150 Lightning. A plug-in hybrid Ranger is set to launch early next year, but details regarding the full EV model are yet to be confirmed.

Nissan Navara EV

The next generation of the Nissan Navara will offer an electric powertrain, potentially utilizing solid-state battery technology. Combustion versions are set to arrive in Australia by 2027, with the EV variant following before 2030.

Mitsubishi Triton EV

Mitsubishi’s electric version of the Triton is set to arrive before the decade’s end. This EV model will cap off the powertrain lineup that includes diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions.

BYD Shark EV

While the BYD Shark has been showcased as a plug-in hybrid, a fully electric version is likely to follow. Given BYD’s rapid development pace, a reveal for the Shark EV could be just around the corner.

Full-Size EV Pick-Ups in the Pipeline

 

 

Ford F-150 Lightning

The battery-electric Ford F-150 Lightning is already available in Australia via independent converters. However, a factory-backed model could be remanufactured in Melbourne in the near future, providing an option for those wanting the popular pick-up in electric form.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

With a powerful 495kW/1065Nm powertrain and a range of 644km, the Chevrolet Silverado EV is expected to make its way to Australia, remanufactured by Walkinshaw Automotive.

RAM 1500 REV

The best-selling full-size pick-up in Australia, the RAM 1500 is set to go electric. The RAM 1500 REV’s production is slated to begin in late 2024, with an Australian release date yet to be announced.

Toyota Tundra Hydrogen

Toyota is collaborating with the Walkinshaw Group to develop a hydrogen-powered Tundra for the Australian market. Though not a battery-electric model, the hydrogen-powered Tundra could offer a low-emission option in the competitive full-size pick-up space.

Rivian R1T

Initially targeting the mining fleet market, Rivian’s R1T will eventually make its way to Australian showrooms once right-hand drive production begins. With sightings of the R1S SUV already reported in Australia, Rivian’s presence in the market seems inevitable.

Tesla Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck, known for its bold design and high-profile status, has been touring Australia and New Zealand. However, Elon Musk has indicated that the Cybertruck may not arrive in Australia immediately, with international certification planned for “sometime next year.”

 

MRT Compatibility

As soon as the MRT research and development team gets a closer look at these new electric utes—be it the Kia Tasman, Ford Ranger EV, or any of the other exciting models on their way—our team will start designing and testing our range of trays and canopies for a seamless fit. MRT is dedicated to creating durable, stylish, and custom-fit accessories that enhance the functionality and style of your vehicle. Whether you’re using your EV ute for work, adventure, or everyday storage, MRT will ensure that our high-quality products will be ready as soon as you drive off the lot with your new EV. Stay tuned for more updates as these vehicles hit the Australian market!