A car with a diesel engine as part of a rechargeable hybrid power plant will enter the Australian market in the third quarter of 2026 and will become the first diesel rechargeable hybrid in its class. The pickup truck from Chery will compete with the traditional leaders of the segment – Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and Mitsubishi L200.
Externally, the KP31 is close to the Chinese Rely P3X: a recognizable “square” design with round lighting, massive plastic protection around the perimeter of the body, a snorkel and aggressive off-road tires. But the production pickup will be slightly shorter than the concept (5450 mm versus 5610 mm). Despite this, it is still longer than the Isuzu D-Max.
The main feature of the new Chery model is the power plant. Under the hood of the pickup truck is a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine paired with an electric motor. It is possible to recharge the traction battery from an outlet. The automaker claims that such a power plant is 10% more economical than a diesel engine and notes that engineers were able to reduce vibrations by 30%.
Chery KP31 pickup
Chery 
Chery KP31 pickup
Chery 
Chery KP31 pickup
Chery 
Chery KP31 pickup
Chery 
Chery KP31 pickup
Chery
Technical characteristics, including power and torque, are still kept secret, but key performance parameters are already known: the load capacity will be 1 ton, and the pickup will be able to tow a trailer weighing 3.5 tons. These characteristics are comparable to those of the main competitors. The Chery pickup will receive differential locks, and its tailgate will be removable, which is necessary for installing various add-ons.
Chery Australia does not hide its ambitions. “We’re not releasing a pickup truck for fun, but to make a real difference in the market,” said Chief Operating Officer Lucas Harris. “Being the first brand with a diesel PHEV in this segment is a huge advantage for us.”
The price has not yet been announced, but the company promises a “competitive price offer” relative to the leaders. Following the diesel hybrid, a rechargeable hybrid with a gasoline engine will appear in 2027. All specifications and price list will be revealed closer to the start of sales in Australia at the end of this year.
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