GWM confirms Tank 300 plug-in hybrid: eco-ranger

David Linklater

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GWM claims Tank 300 loses none of its 4x4 ability in PHEV configuration.

GWM claims Tank 300 loses none of its 4x4 ability in PHEV configuration.

  • Tank 300 PHEV joins diesel, petrol and HEV models next year.
  • Powertrain technology shared with Tank 500 and Cannon Alpha ute.
  • Full mechanical 4x4 system with low-range, 3-tonne towing.

GWM will launch a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the Tank 300 SUV in New Zealand early next year, bringing the count of powertrains offered in the retro-styled 4x4 to four. It already offers turbo-diesel, petrol and petrol-electric hybrid (non-plug-in).

GWM Tank 300 Hi4-T PHEV.
Powertrain basics are shared with larger Tank 500 and Cannon Alpha ute.

While GWM is yet to confirm final specification and pricing, the so-called "Hi4-T" PHEV setup is already offered in the larger Tank 500 and Canon Alpha ute. In those models, the 2.0-litre petrol is paired with a large 37.1kWh battery and electric motor, making a massive 300kW/750Nm and giving 100km-plus pure-electric range.

The PHEV will sit at the top of the Tank 300 lineup (currently $53,990-$61,990), but will logically slot in underneath the Tank 500. The non-plug-in hybrid Tank 500 HEV is $74,990, while the PHEV is $79,990 (but sold only in luxury Ultra specification).

GWM is proud of the Hi4-T platform retaining a "true mechanical four-wheel-drive system, complete with a low-range transfer case and locking differentials, ensuring the Tank 300 Hi4-T remains a genuine off-road SUV rather than a soft-roader with electrification."

GWM Tank Hi4-T PHEV.
Low-range 4x4 is standard, plus vehicle-to-load power to do outdoorsy stuff.

The Tank 300 Hi4-T offers a braked towing capacity of up to 3 tonnes and features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) 
capability, enabling owners to power external equipment, tools and accessories directly from the vehicle.

As with the Tank 500 and Cannon Alpha, the Tank 300 Hi4-T/PHEV can operate in electric, hybrid and petrol modes, optimising energy use depending on driving conditions. 

The brand says expanding the Hi4-T platform into the Tank 300 also "reflects GWM’s broader strategy of offering diverse powertrain options, now including petrol, diesel, hybrid and PHEV across its range.

The Cannon Alpha Hi4-T holds the distinction of being the first, and still the sole, PHEV to make it to the top of the gruelling Beer O’Clock Hill in Australia - an acknowledged tough test for any 4x4.

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