Auto Insight Lab

Towing guide

PHEV ute towing battle: 2500kg vs 3500kg in Australia

PHEV ute towing is no longer one simple number. JAC Hunter PHEV is one of the key 3500kg watchlist models because its announced package combines 3500kg braked towing with a 915kg payload claim. For buyers who want a JAC ute today, JAC T9 remains the current diesel option, with a lower 3200kg braked towing figure but a more immediate ownership story. BYD Shark 6 now splits between 2500kg and 3500kg depending on grade, while GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV and Ford Ranger PHEV target the traditional 3500kg benchmark.

Last checked: 23 June 2026. Always confirm final braked towing, GVM, GCM, payload and towball limits in the current brochure before buying.

Quick answer

If you need a PHEV ute with a 3500kg braked towing claim, include JAC Hunter PHEV on the shortlist alongside BYD Shark 6 Performance, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, Ford Ranger PHEV and the incoming Chery Stockman target. If you are looking at BYD Shark 6 Dynamic or Premium, the published towing number is 2500kg.

ModelTowing headlineStatusWhat to check next
JAC T93200kg brakedOn saleCurrent JAC ute option for buyers who want dealer availability now rather than waiting for Hunter PHEV.
JAC Hunter PHEV3500kg braked announcedIncoming / watchlistStrong value-spec story with 915kg payload announced; wait for final Australian brochure and real-world tests.
BYD Shark 6 Dynamic / Premium2500kg brakedOn saleGood lifestyle PHEV case, but not the 3500kg version.
BYD Shark 6 Performance3500kg brakedOn saleAlso brings 350kW / 700Nm 2.0L PHEV powertrain.
GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV3500kg brakedOn salePayload and real-world range under load matter.
Ford Ranger PHEV3500kg positioningOn sale / supply variesRanger ecosystem and Pro Power Onboard are major hooks.
Chery Stockman / KP313500kg targetIncoming / final specs pendingWait for certified production specs, pricing and ANCAP.

Why 3500kg is not the whole answer

Towball download

A heavy trailer can put hundreds of kilograms on the towball. That weight usually comes out of payload.

Payload after accessories

Bullbar, canopy, drawers, people, tools and water can consume payload before the trailer is attached.

Range while towing

PHEV electric range can shrink sharply under load. Count fuel use, not just EV range.

Charging pattern

A PHEV that starts each day charged behaves differently from one used as an uncharged petrol hybrid ute.

Buyer shortcuts

Buyer typeBest starting pointWhy
Value-focused 3500kg shoppersJAC Hunter PHEVHunter is the incoming disruptor to watch because it combines a 3500kg towing claim, 915kg payload claim and sharp announced price positioning.
Weekend lifestyle towingBYD Shark 6 Premium or PerformancePremium may be enough if towing needs are below 2500kg; Performance if 3500kg matters.
Tradie / mixed workFord Ranger PHEV, JAC Hunter PHEV or GWM Cannon Alpha PHEVLook closely at payload, service network, onboard power and real-world usage.
Touring and diesel-minded buyersChery Stockman watchlistDiesel PHEV could be attractive, but it needs production proof.
Near-maximum towing oftenCompare against diesel utes tooA PHEV may work, but a conventional diesel may still be simpler for repeated heavy towing.

Related PHEV guides

JAC T9 review

The current JAC ute for buyers comparing value, safety, warranty, 3200kg towing and ownership confidence.

JAC Hunter PHEV preview

Announced 3500kg towing, 915kg payload, battery, V2L and value positioning.

Towing and payload guide

Read tow rating, payload, accessories and towball download together.

Running costs and fuel claims

Why 2L/100km only makes sense for certain charging patterns.

V2L and worksite power

Compare PHEV ute mobile power use for tools, camping and backup.

Sources