Chinese auto brands, including JAC and GWM, are actively recruiting former Holden chassis engineers to refine their vehicle designs for the unique demands of Australian roads. This trend highlights a growing commitment to localization as these companies seek to compete effectively with established players like Ford, which still maintains in-house design and engineering capabilities in Australia.
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Localization Efforts Gain Momentum
Earlier this year, GWM brought on Rob Trubiani, a former Holden dynamics expert, to lead chassis tuning at the Lang Lang proving ground – once owned by General Motors. The program began with the Haval H6 (a RAV4 competitor) and has expanded to other models like the Cannon Alpha dual-cab. Now, JAC has partnered with Multimatic, an international engineering firm, and its technical director, Michael Barber, who previously spent over two decades at Holden, to develop a localized ride and handling package for their upcoming Hunter ute.
The Hunter: A Plug-In Hybrid Contender
Set to launch in mid-2026, the JAC Hunter will directly compete with plug-in hybrid utes such as the BYD Shark 6 and the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, as well as the Ford Ranger PHEV. The Hunter’s development leverages Mr. Barber’s extensive experience with vehicles like the Commodore, Cadillac ATS, and Chevrolet Volt, ensuring it meets Australian driving expectations.
Expert Insight
Mr. Barber’s role at Multimatic involves optimizing the Hunter’s suspension for payload scenarios, on-road and off-road performance, steering precision, and ride comfort. According to Ahmed Mahmoud, managing director of JAC Motors Australia, “Australian roads demand specific engineering expertise, and Michael Barber has spent his career mastering exactly that.”
Beyond Australia: Global Impact
The chassis tuning program isn’t solely focused on the Australian market. Hongjian Jiang, JAC Motors Australia technical director, notes that the expertise gained could also influence the suspension tune for Hunter models sold in China and other international markets. This suggests a broader strategy to enhance vehicle performance across multiple regions.
Key Specifications
The Hunter PHEV boasts impressive power figures, with a combined output of 385kW and 1000Nm, exceeding the Ranger PHEV (207kW/697Nm) and the Shark 6 (321kW/650Nm). Its 31.2kWh LFP battery allows for an electric range of “over 100km,” though the specific test cycle isn’t yet specified. It also offers a 3.3kW vehicle-to-load capability for powering external equipment.
Warranty and Support
JAC is backing the Hunter PHEV with a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, 24/7 roadside assistance, capped-price servicing, and a loan vehicle program. Pricing and final specifications are still pending, but the company encourages potential buyers to register their interest through JAC dealers.
The growing trend of Chinese automakers investing in localized engineering expertise signals a shift towards more competitive, market-specific vehicles. This approach could reshape the Australian auto landscape as these brands aim to deliver products tailored to the country’s unique driving conditions.
