The JAC T9 PHEV looks set to take the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie when it finally hits the market, offering more oomph than the BYD Shark 6 Performance…
- JAC Motors SA lists T9 PHEV as “coming soon”
- Plug-in hybrid powertrain churns out 360 kW
- Makes more power than Shark 6 Performance
The long-awaited JAC T9 PHEV looks poised to grab the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie when it finally launches in South Africa, out-punching the likes of the BYD Shark 6 Performance and Ford Ranger Raptor – on paper, at least.
Way back in December 2022, the Chinese brand’s local division suggested the T9 PHEV double-cab bakkie would arrive in Mzansi “at the end of 2023”. The company later shifted this targeted launch date to the 2nd quarter of 2025. Though this plug-in hybrid derivative has still yet to materialise, JAC Motors SA’s website now lists it as “coming soon”.
In addition, the website suggests the T9 PHEV will boast peak power of 360 kW (and maximum torque of 674 Nm), markedly higher than the 290 kW figure mentioned in JAC Motors SA’s earlier press material. From what we can tell, the PHEV powertrain comprises a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine (160 kW/370 Nm), a pair of electric motors (one on each axle) and a 31.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack.
As a reminder, the freshly launched BYD Shark 6 Performance currently ranks as SA’s most powerful bakkie, generating 350 kW courtesy of its PHEV powertrain. The Ford Ranger Raptor is next with 292 kW (from a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine), though the upcoming production version of Chery’s KP31 diesel PHEV bakkie (with 350 kW) looks set to beat the Blue Oval contender in the power stakes.
In fellow right-hand-drive market Australia, the T9 PHEV – which measures 5 330 mm long, just like the turbodiesel derivatives available locally – has a listed all-electric range of 100 km (according to the NEDC standard) and a claimed combined range of some 1 005 km. Payload and braked towing capacity in that country come in at 915 kg and 3 500 kg, respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much power will the upcoming JAC T9 PHEV produce compared to rival bakkies?
A: According to updated listings from JAC Motors South Africa, the T9 PHEV delivers a peak power output of 360 kW and 674 Nm of torque. This places it ahead of the 350 kW BYD Shark 6 Performance and the 292 kW Ford Ranger Raptor, making it poised to take the title of South Africa’s most powerful bakkie on paper.
Q: What engine and battery set-up powers the JAC T9 PHEV?
A: The T9 PHEV is built around a plug-in hybrid architecture combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (160 kW/370 Nm) with electric motors mounted on the front and rear axles. Electric power is supplied by a 31.2 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack.
Q: What are the expected driving range and utility capability figures for the T9 PHEV?
A: Based on specifications listed for right-hand-drive markets, the T9 PHEV offers an all-electric driving range of up to 100 km (NEDC) and a total combined range exceeding 1 000 km. For utility work, it maintains full double-cab functionality with a 915 kg payload capacity and a 3 500 kg braked towing rating.
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