GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra: China’s Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Redefines Power, Luxury, and Everyday Toughness—But Small Details Need Work

In the global pickup truck battlefield, electrification was supposed to make diesel and petrol outdated overnight. Instead, plug-in hybrid pickups have struck a practical chord with buyers who prize versatility, performance, and reliability. With battery-only trucks facing slow adoption, brands like GWM are surging ahead with advanced powertrains that promise the best of both worlds—brawny hybrid performance, generous electric range, and full-size utility. The Cannon Alpha Ultra is the latest example: a bold, luxuriously equipped hybrid that wows with power but hasn’t ironed out all the little bugs.

The Twin-Hearted Truck

Picture a pickup born from two mighty traditions: the silent punch of an electric motor and the full-throated roar of turbo gasoline. It’s not just about off-road prowess or towing heavy trailers—the modern hybrid pickup must survive the city grind, pamper its owner with luxury, and meet the weekend challenge of rocky trails. But sometimes, in the chase for the future, the small details get lost—rattling spare tires, menus that baffle, or a rev-happy throttle. The real hero is the truck that masters both the storm and the subtle, making smart engineering effortless in every drive.

Key Features and Tech Highlights

• Powertrain: 2.0L turbo four-cylinder and single electric motor, combined output of 402 hp (300 kW) and 553 lb-ft (750 Nm).

• Battery: Large 37.1 kWh battery offers up to 115 km electric-only range; supports up to 50 kW DC fast charging.

• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in roughly 7.0 seconds, launch control included.

• Transmission: 9-speed automatic with handy push-button 4L, front and rear locking differentials.

• Size and Utility: 5,445 mm length, 1,991 mm width, 2,810 kg curb weight, 685 kg payload, 3,500 kg towing.

• Consumption: Rated at 1.7L/100km (idealized), but average real-world is closer to 11.5L/100km at higher speeds.

• Warranty: Seven years, unlimited kilometers across GWM’s Australian lineup.

What’s Good, and What Isn’t

• Luxury interior inspired by Tank 500 SUV—soft leather, faux wood, 12.3-inch displays, physical climate buttons.

• Creature comforts: Heated/massaging front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging front/rear, ventilated seats, head-up display.

• Responsive, feature-rich infotainment with smartphone connectivity, but digital gauge cluster lacks customisation and tachometer.

• Spacious back seat with heating, ventilation, and fold-down charging armrest.

• Practicality downsides: Small wheels visually, crude spare tire mount in bed (causes rattling and looks unfinished).

Comparison Table: GWM Cannon Alpha vs Key Hybrid Pickups

The Drive and Daily Use

GWM’s hybrid setup is smooth, quiet, and surprisingly punchy, with launch control for quick getaways. On daily commutes, it’s refined and doesn’t have the harshness of old diesel pickups. However, throttle “rev-hang” can cause 1–2 seconds of unwanted acceleration; GWM issued a fix but some trucks still need updating. Transitions between electric and combustion modes could use polishing.

Despite the electrified promise, real-world fuel consumption is closer to large diesels, but running on electric power for short trips remains efficient. DC fast charging allows for flexible use if public chargers are available.

Off-Road and Loading Chops

On loose trails and rocky terrain, the four-wheel drive system, low-range box, and locking diffs deliver strong results—even in slippery or tricky conditions. The truck’s payload and towing match rivals, while the interior luxury sets it apart for passengers. The biggest negative remains the noisy, exposed spare tire mount, which hurts the “premium” claim and passenger experience.

At AU$66,990, the Cannon Alpha Ultra delivers serious hybrid muscle, premium comfort, and tech sophistication at a fair price. With some small fixes—smoother hybrid transitions, refined spare tire solution, and added gauge customisation—the segment could have a new leader. For buyers willing to accept growing pains, it’s an exciting and innovative workhorse in a rapidly evolving market.