GWM Tank 300 2026 News

GWM Australia has confirmed the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system seen on the Cannon Alpha PHEV ute will make its way to the brand’s Tank 500 4WD.The 2026 GWM Tank 500 PHEV will launch before the end of the year and will feature a large battery and electric motors with plenty of power and an impressive driving range. Importantly, the Tank 500 PHEV will be a five-seater to accommodate the battery.GWM is yet to confirm pricing for the Tank 500 PHEV, but the pricing difference between traditional hybrid and plug-in hybrids in the same trim level is typically less than $5000 for the brand. The standard hybrid Tank 500 starts from $73,990 drive-away.GWM says much of the powertrain, which it calls ‘Hi4 plug-in hybrid technology’, will be the same as found in the Cannon Alpha PHEV ute, including the 300kW total power output and hefty 750Nm of torque on tap. A claimed 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds is relatively handy for a full-size family 4WD.This comes thanks to the combination of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and 120kW electric motor, which put power to all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission.Importantly, the GWM Tank 500 PHEV is rated for 3000kg of braked towing capacity, has 213mm of ground clearance and a wading depth of 800mm. It has an approach angle of 30 degrees, breakover of 22.5 degrees and departure angle of 24 degrees.GWM claims 120km of electric driving range thanks to its 37.1kWh battery, but that’s tested via NEDC methods that tend to be more generous than more accurate WLTP testing. The brand also claims fuel consumption of 2.1L/100km, also not likely reflective of full-time real-world efficiency.Charging at 50kW on DC means a claimed 30 to 80 per cent in 24 minutes, or AC charging at 6kW should result in about 6.5 hours of charging.Instead of the third row, a more spacious second row will include heated, ventilated and massaging seats, with a touchscreen for rear passengers to control climate, lighting, media and comfort settings.The front of the cabin will have a 14.6-inch multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, three-zone climate control, LED lighting and a suite of safety kit including a surround-view parking monitor.GWM says pricing will be confirmed in the coming weeks as the Tank 500 PHEV’s launch approaches. A page for customers to register interest is live on the brand’s website.