GWM Cannon Hi4-T for New Zealand: doubling down on plug-in power

David Linklater
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Cannon Hi4-T is the second plug-in ute from GWM for NZ.

Cannon Hi4-T is the second plug-in ute from GWM for NZ.

  • Cannon joins larger Cannon Alpha in offering PHEV power.
  • Hi4-T developed especially for ladder-frame 4x4s.
  • Combined 310kW/750Nm, tow rating 3.5 tonnes.

GWM is doubling its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute offerings in New Zealand with the impending launch of the Cannon Hi4-T, a version of the brand's one-tonne pickup truck.

GWM Cannon PHEV.
Hi4-T plug-in powertrain developed especially for ladder-frame 4x4s.

The Hi4-T powertrain has been developed specifically for ladder-frame 4x4 vehicles. The version in the new Cannon is very similar to that already offered in the larger Cannon Alpha ute and Tank 300 SUV.

Hi4-T integrates electrification with a traditional mechanical 4WD system. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 310kW/750Nm (10kW more than the Alpha or Tank 300). It retains a traditional transmission.

The large-capacity 33.1kWh battery delivers a claimed 115km of electric-only driving range (NEDC). In hybrid mode, GWM claims an overall range in excess of 1000km.

GWM Cannon PHEV.
Cannon PHEV can achieve 100km-plus on electric power.

The Cannon has vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, including integrated 230V power outlets in the tub. Braked towing is 3.5 tonnes.

Pricing and launch timing is yet to be revealed, but GWM says it will be "one of NZ’s most affordable plug-in hybrid utes, lowering the barrier to electrified ute ownership without compromising capability, performance or practicality." 

GWM Cannon PHEV.
Traditional gearbox and mechanical 4WD: tow rating stays at 3.5 tonnes.

The substantially larger Cannon Alpha PHEV starts at $69,990.