JAC Motors has used the stage of the 2025 Melbourne Motorshow to make a strong statement about the future of utility vehicles in Australia — one that embraces zero-emissions performance and hard-working versatility in equal measure.
Speaking to a packed crowd, Ahmed Mahmoud, Managing Director of JAC Motors Australia, introduced two new dual-cab utes that demonstrate the brand’s ambition: a powerful plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) called the JAC Hunter, and a fully electric variant of the T9 dual cab, known as the T9 EV.
“These vehicles are a vanguard for change,” Mahmoud said. “They will set new benchmarks in versatility, capability, and zero-emission mobility — and because they’re JACs, they’ll also be durable, fleet-ready, and built to make an impact.”
JAC Hunter – Plug-In Power with No Compromise
Unveiled as a world-first in Melbourne, the JAC Hunter PHEV combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors to deliver a staggering 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque — comfortably outpacing most diesel rivals in the segment.
With a targeted electric-only range of 100km, the Hunter is built to tackle daily fleet duties emissions-free, while still providing the backup of petrol for long-haul or remote operations. It also includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, allowing it to power tools, trailers or even buildings in off-grid environments.
The vehicle features an advanced hybrid transmission, regenerative braking, and intelligent driver assist systems. Inside, the Hunter carries across many of the features found in its diesel sibling — including a 10.4-inch infotainment screen, digital instrument cluster, and spacious seating for five.
“Capability and sustainability do not need to be separate choices,” Mahmoud said. “With the Hunter, you get both in a vehicle that’s built for the way Australians live and work.”
JAC T9 EV – Heading to WA for Mining Fleet Evaluation
Joining the Hunter on the stand was the JAC T9 EV, a full battery electric version of the popular diesel T9 dual cab. Sharing the same chassis, the EV variant has been modified to accommodate an 88kWh battery and dual electric motors producing 220kW and 516Nm of torque.
It supports fast charging from 15 to 80% in just 40 minutes, and offers a 900kg payload with a tray wide enough for an Aussie pallet. Like the Hunter, it includes an external power socket for V2L functionality.
The T9 EV will soon head to Western Australia for field testing with several environmentally progressive mining companies.
“We’re excited to see how it performs in some of the harshest and most demanding operating conditions in the world,” Mahmoud said. “Australia is ready for an electric work ute, and we believe the T9 EV can lead the charge.”
With both vehicles set to enter production within 12 months, and over 60 dealers already supporting the brand nationwide, JAC Motors has signalled that it’s here for the long haul — and it’s bringing real solutions to fleets ready to transition to lower-emission transport.
