2027 GWM Cannon Hi4-T PHEV Set for Australian Launch: 310kW, 3.5-Tonne Towing, and the WLTP Reality Check

GWM Australia is just weeks away from introducing a highly anticipated plug-in hybrid variant to its popular, entry-level Cannon ute range.

By adding this model alongside the larger Cannon Alpha PHEV, GWM will become the only automotive manufacturer in Australia to offer two distinct plug-in hybrid dual-cab utes.

The Hi4-T Powertrain: Mechanical 4WD Meets Electric Muscle

Unlike some modern hybrid utes that rely exclusively on an electric motor to drive the rear wheels, GWM’s proprietary Hi4-T architecture integrates electrification directly into a traditional body-on-frame mechanical four-wheel-drive system.

The powertrain pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a high-output electric motor and a nine-speed automatic transmission. Following a recent upgrade from its initial Chinese market debut, the Australian-specification Cannon PHEV will produce a combined system output of **310kW (up from 300kW) and a massive 750Nm of torque**. This setup propels the dual-cab from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.4 seconds.

Battery Range and the NEDC vs. WLTP Reality

The vehicle is equipped with a large-capacity 33.1kWh battery pack with an electric-only driving range of 115km and a staggering fuel consumption figure of just 2.4L/100km. However, buyers must be aware that these figures are based on the older, highly lenient NEDC laboratory testing cycle. When measured against the much stricter and real-world-aligned **WLTP testing cycle**, the pure electric range is officially rated at a more realistic 84km.

Despite this, the hybrid system truly shines in long-distance touring. When combining a fully charged battery with a full tank of petrol, the Cannon PHEV delivers a claimed maximum combined cruising range of 1,037km, effectively neutralizing EV range anxiety for regional travel.

Workhorse Practicality and V2L Capability

Crucially for the Australian market, the Cannon PHEV retains a genuine **3,500kg braked towing capacity.

It also scores a major packaging victory over its larger, more expensive sibling, the Cannon Alpha PHEV. While the Alpha is forced to mount its spare wheel inside the tub—severely impacting usable cargo space—the standard Cannon PHEV sensibly retains a full-size spare wheel mounted underneath the chassis.

The tub is also fitted with integrated 230V Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) power outlets. This transforms the 33.1kWh battery into a mobile generator capable of running heavy power tools on a job site or household appliances while camping off-grid.

Dimensions and Vanta-Inspired Styling

Physically, the electrified Cannon is almost identical to its diesel counterpart. It measures 5416mm long, 1947mm wide, and 1886mm tall on a 3230mm wheelbase. The PHEV sits just 2mm taller than the diesel version while maintaining the same 232mm of ground clearance.

Early visual previews indicate the model will adopt an aggressive, blacked-out exterior styling package similar to the diesel Cannon Vanta, complemented by sporty red-painted brake calipers—a design theme becoming characteristic of GWM's off-road hybrid portfolio.

2027 GWM Cannon Hi4-T PHEV Estimated Australian Pricing

Official Australian pricing and finalized local specifications will be announced in the coming weeks ahead of the vehicle's imminent showroom arrival.

(Note: While a definitive Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) is pending, industry analysis provides a clear positioning window for the new model.)

Estimated Price Ceiling: The Cannon Hi4-T PHEV will strictly undercut its larger sibling, the Cannon Alpha PHEV, which is currently priced at $57,490 drive-away.

Target Competitor Pricing: It is expected to aggressively square off against incoming Chinese rivals like the JAC T9-based Hunter PHEV, which opens at $49,988 before on-road costs.

Expect the 2027 GWM Cannon PHEV to land squarely in the low-to-mid $50,000 bracket, solidifying its position as one of the most heavily specified, value-driven plug-in hybrid utes in the country.