Chery Introduces World's First Diesel Plug-in Hybrid Pickup Truck

Chinese automaker Chery is breaking new ground with the Stockman, the world's first diesel plug-in hybrid pickup truck—an ambitious solution to tackle the fuel-guzzling pickup market, particularly in Australia. The truck combines a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine with a 34 kWh battery pack and electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 469 horsepower and 800 Newton-meters of torque, along with an electric-only range of 100 kilometers (NEDC) or approximately 73 kilometers (EPA). Engineered specifically for the Australian market, where long-distance travel, heavy towing, and rising fuel costs are daily realities, the Stockman targets a highly competitive segment where pickups account for 20% of all new vehicle sales.

Key Highlights

🔋 Electric Range: 100 kilometers on NEDC cycle (approximately 73 kilometers on EPA cycle) on a single 34 kWh battery charge.

⚡ Power and Torque: The 2.5L turbodiesel engine combined with an electric motor produces 469 horsepower and 800 N⋅m of torque.

🏁 Fuel Efficiency: Outstanding consumption of 2 L/100 km (117.6 mpg) when the battery is fully charged; however, electric efficiency rates at 1.82 miles per kWh only.

🎯 Off-Road Capability: Genuine four-wheel-drive system featuring a solid rear axle, three locking differentials, and low-range transfer box; maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms (7,716 pounds).

💡 Features: Heated and ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, dual large screens, and a generously-sized color head-up display; Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality with two household power outlets in the truck bed.

📅 Availability: The Stockman is expected to launch in the Australian market soon, competing directly against Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, and Mitsubishi Triton.

⚠️ Potential Concerns: The diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) system may face clogging issues if the engine sits idle for extended periods. Additionally, the complexity of integrating two fundamentally different powertrains raises questions about long-term reliability.