GWM lists a canopy for the Ultra version of its Cannon Ute. And while it also lists a bullbar for the Cannon Ute, it doesn’t specifically mention whether it’s suitable for the Ultra. There may be some body or trim differences that make it unsuitable for the Ultra, so a check with your GWM dealer would be the next step.

The aftermarket also has lots of suppliers who offer both canopies and bull-bars for a huge range of makes and models, so there’s almost certainly something available there, too.

A weird, random grinding noise at low speeds when taking off can sometimes be a result of the anti-lock brakes. It can be a surprise initially, but it doesn’t usually last more than a second or so and is caused by the braking system more or less calibrating itself for the journey ahead. It can also occur in reverse and is usually nothing to worry about.

But you should also probably look further than the braking system. Any grinding or rattling noise can be something as simple as a heat-shield vibrating, or as serious as a major flaw in the transmission or suspension. Either way, it needs to be diagnosed and fixed.

Don’t take no as an answer from the dealership, and don’t be afraid to tackle GWM’s Australian customer service division if you’re not getting anywhere. If there is a problem, then it’s very possibly a warranty issue and is GWM’s problem to fix.

If you jump online and do a search for this very thing, you’ll find a heap of distributors and manufacturers offering just what you’re after. Tonneaus for the Cannon are available in soft and hard formats, made from fibreglass or aluminium, and even versions that offer a roller-top function. If you can’t find what you’re after online, tackle one of the many off-road and ute stores that also stock a range of stuff like this.

If you go down the hard-tonneau route, consider one with central locking that can be paired with the locks on the rest of the vehicle. That way, you’ll have one-button unlocking of the cabin and the tray. It’s a lot less messing around than having a separate set of keys to unlock the cover.