Plug-in hybrid JAC T9’s switch flipped for South Africa

Launched locally almost a year ago after a series of delays, JAC has introduced its first hybrid to South Africa modelled on the T9 bakkie.

Diesel out, electrified petrol in

Set to become the local market’s second plug-in hybrid bakkie after the BYD Shark that launches this week, the T9 PHEV swaps-out the 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine for a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol combined with a 31.2-kWh lithium-ion-phosphate battery pack.

Powering two electric motors, a 150kW/300Nm unit on the front axle and a 150kW/340Nm module on the rear, the T9 PHEV’s combined output stands at 290kW/670Nm – 30 kW less than the BYD, but 20 Nm more.

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Somewhat surprisingly, JAC declined to provide the electric-only range, saying a one-hour 25 min wait applies to DC charging, and four-hours 30 min when using a conventional AC outlet.

Seemingly based on the flagship T9 Super Lux, the PHEV retains its 3 500 kg towing capacity and electronically locking rear differential, as well as four-wheel-drive system.

Besides the addition of a secondary filler flap hiding the charging outlet, the T9 PHEV’s only other apparent difference is a blue JAC badge on its grille.

Spec sheet

Taking into consideration the Super Lux, expect the PHEV’s standard specification sheet to include the following:

• 18-inch alloy wheels;
• folding and heated electric mirrors;
• auto-levelling on/off LED headlights;
• rain sense wipers;
• leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel;
• dual-zone climate control with rear vents;
• push-button start;
• heated and electric front seats;
• seven-inch digital instrument cluster;
• 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system;
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto;
• wireless smartphone charger;
• auto-dimming rear-view mirror;
• sunroof;
• reverse camera;
• front and rear parking sensors;
• 360-degree surround-view camera system;
• cruise control;
• tyre pressure monitor;
• Hill Descent Control;
• Hill Start Assist

Pricing: What to expect?

Only going on-sale in the second quarter of the year, the T9 PHEV will likely attract a significant premium over the current flagship 2.0 CTI Super Lux 4×4 AT priced at R659 900.

Final pricing will, however, only be divulged closer to the eventual launch date.

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