Chinese auto manufacturer JAC Motors is gearing up to reveal an as-yet-unknown vehicle, which will make its global premiere this weekend in Melbourne.
JAC, which currently sells just one ute in Australia, will host three already-known vehicles at its stand this weekend: the T9 turbo-diesel dual-cab, the T9 EV electric ute, and its brand-new DE-FINE concept car – in addition to this new mystery vehicle.
“We are honoured to welcome an exciting new member of the JAC family into the world,” said Ahmed Mahmoud, managing director of JAC Motors’ Australian importer, LTS Auto.
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“The fact that JAC Motors has entrusted the global debut of this internationally significant new vehicle to Australia speaks volumes about Australia’s importance to JAC’s international plans.”
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In a teaser image supplied by JAC, the mystery vehicle’s silhouette can be made out, which suggests that this new model will almost certainly be a ute or large SUV.
Given its front fascia heavily resembles that of the T9 ute currently on sale here, it’s possible this new model will be a large, ladder-frame SUV based on the T9’s platform. The two would therefore share a relationship similar to that of the Ford Everest SUV and Ranger ute.
It appears to have a tweaked front end that looks somewhat softer than that of the T9 ute, with a revised grille and less black plastic trim and cladding. The slim daytime running lights (DRLs), split headlights, and large JAC logo all remain from the T9.
The tweaks are subtle but lend themselves to a more passenger-oriented vehicle. It appears it could be similar to the cosmetic tweaks the Everest receives over the Ranger, which features more chrome trim for a less commercial look.
JAC’s global public premiere is scheduled for 11am on Saturday, April 5, at the JAC Melbourne Motor Show stand. Guests from JAC Motors China and JAC Motors Australia will be in attendance to host the reveal.
The T9 ute currently on sale will be on display, which features a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine and part-time four-wheel drive. It’s one of the more affordable dual-cab, four-wheel drive utes on the market, with the base Oasis opening at $42,662 before on-road costs.
Also in attendance will be the T9 EV, which could be making its way to Australian showrooms. While it looks largely the same as the T9 – aside from a closed-off grille, aerodynamic wheels, and a subtler sports bar – it differs greatly under the skin.
It’s powered by a pair of electric motors, one for each axle, giving it all-wheel drive like the diesel model – something we haven’t seen in the single electric ute sold in Australia thus far.
Making its Australian public debut will be the DE-FINE concept, which, in its sleek, four-door form, is intended to show off JAC’s electric ambitions. Underpinning it is an 800-volt electrical platform, with a 460kW silicone-carbide electric motor powering two or up to four of its wheels.
All four vehicles will form JAC’s static display this weekend.
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