The automotive landscape in 2024 has been a pivotal year for fleet buyers, marked by significant move towards hybrid powertrains, an influx new ute options, and the planning for the New Vehicle Efficiency Standards (NVES) which came into effect on 1st January 2025. These developments underscore the industry’s response to market demand and the need to meet stricter emissions regulations.
The Ute Battleground Heats Up
One of the most talked-about categories in 2024 was utes, as several manufacturers vied for dominance in this highly competitive market.
Mitsubishi Triton: Mitsubishi made headlines with the launch of its all-new Triton, a completely redesigned model that elevated its position in the competitive ute market. Featuring advanced technology, improved off-road capabilities, and a more powerful engine lineup, the Triton aimed to set a new benchmark for both fleet and private buyers.
Kia Tasman: Kia’s much-anticipated Tasman ute was unveiled to fleet buyers and the media in October. The design, while polarising, signals the future direction of ute styling—a more Americanised aesthetic designed for both domestic and international markets. With deliveries set to commence in 2025, the Tasman’s performance and market reception remain to be seen.
BYD Shark 6 Plug-in Hybrid: BYD made waves with the launch of its Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute. Available for order immediately after its release, the Shark 6 sold out its initial allocation of 2,000 units within 48 hours, making it one of the most successful launches of the year.
Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid: At the Mobility Live event in Victoria, Ford showcased its plug-in hybrid Ranger. Although details were scarce, the vehicle’s towing capacity and utility features were highlighted as key benefits for fleet buyers. Ford also teased the Ranger Super Duty, a model designed to bridge the gap between utes and light trucks.
Ford Ranger Super Duty: The Ford Ranger Super Duty was one of the year’s most exciting announcements. Designed to offer the towing capacity and payload of a light truck in the body of a mid-sized ute, the Super Duty represents a game-changing option for fleet managers. With a 4.5-tonne towing capacity and robust build, it caters to industries requiring heavy-duty capabilities without necessitating a truck licence. Set to arrive in 2026, its unveiling underscores Ford’s commitment to innovation in the fleet sector.
Great Wall Motors Cannon Alpha Hybrid: As the first full-hybrid dual-cab ute in the market, Great Wall Motors continued to expand its presence with the Cannon Alpha Hybrid. This model positions the brand as a strong contender in the low-emission vehicle category.
LDV eTerron 9: LDV introduced the eTerron 9 which will arrive in 2025, a fully electric 4×4 dual-cab ute, signalling its commitment to electrification. Earlier in the year, LDV had launched the eDeliver 7 electric van, which also gained attention for its practicality and range.
2024 was the Year of the Hybrid
While electric vehicles (EVs) continued to gain traction, 2024 will likely be remembered as the year hybrids dominated new vehicle launches. The proliferation of hybrid powertrains offered fleet managers a practical path to reducing emissions without the infrastructure challenges associated with EVs.
Toyota Hilux 48-Volt Mild Hybrid: Toyota introduced its 48-volt “V-Active” technology for the Hilux range. Marketed as delivering a 10% fuel saving, this mild hybrid system was limited to high-end trims like the SR5 but signalled Toyota’s commitment to efficiency.
Kia Sportage Hybrid: A direct challenge to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the Kia Sportage Hybrid brought a fresh option to fleet managers. With increased production towards the end of the year, supply chain improvements made this model more accessible.
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Hyundai joined the hybrid SUV race with its Tucson Hybrid, another competitor in the midsize SUV segment. Alongside the updated Santa Fe Hybrid, Hyundai’s offerings provided a viable alternative for fleets aiming to reduce fuel costs and emissions.
Mazda CX-60 and Toyota Camry Hybrid Updates: The Mazda CX-60’s new hybrid system and the Toyota Camry’s fifth-generation 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain highlighted the ongoing refinement of hybrid technologies. These updates significantly improved fuel efficiency, making them attractive options for fleets.
Small Cars and Sedans: A Revival in Efficiency
Despite declining popularity in the small car segment, several manufacturers focused on delivering hybrids and efficient models in 2024.
Hyundai i30 Sedan Hybrid: Hyundai’s hybrid i30 sedan garnered attention for its practicality, although it faced criticism over safety ratings early in the year. Nonetheless, its introduction provided fleets with a reliable and efficient small car option.
MG3 and Suzuki Swift Hybrids: MG and Suzuki made headlines with hybrid variants of their popular small cars. The MG3 Hybrid, in particular, was noted for its affordability and efficiency, reinforcing the segment’s relevance for cost-conscious fleet buyers.
Toyota Yaris Hybrid: Toyota took a bold step by offering the Yaris exclusively as a hybrid model. This decision aligns with the broader industry trend towards electrification and efficiency.
Vans and Light Commercial Vehicles: Electric and Hybrid Momentum
Fleet buyers in the light commercial vehicle sector saw new options that balanced utility and sustainability.
Ford Transit Custom: Ford introduced the latest version of its Transit Custom, with electric and plug-in hybrid variants announced as part of the lineup. These models catered to businesses looking for practical, low-emission solutions.
Mercedes-Benz eVito and V-Class Updates: Mercedes-Benz continued to expand its electric van offerings with updates to the eVito and V-Class, providing premium options for fleets.
Looking Ahead
2024 has been a transformative year for fleet buyers, marked by the rise of hybrids and a renewed focus on efficiency in response to the NVES. The growing range of hybrid utes, SUVs, and small cars provides fleets with diverse options to meet their operational needs while reducing emissions.
As the market continues to evolve, fleet managers will benefit from the increased availability of hybrids and electric vehicles, paving the way for a more sustainable future. With advancements in technology and infrastructure, the journey towards net-zero emissions is gaining momentum, and 2024 will be remembered as a year that set the stage for significant progress in fleet electrification and efficiency.
