JAC Hunter And Foton Tunland: Two New Chinese Pickups Enter The Aussie Market

Recently, two new pickups from Chinese automakers made their debut in Australia, each bringing something unique to the table. The JAC Hunter PHEV and the Foton Tunland offer different approaches to what a utility truck can be, catering to distinct needs and preferences.

Starting with the JAC Hunter, this model is a premium take on the brand’s T9 platform. With its blacked-out parts, flared fenders, and a rear sports bar, it stands out in a crowd, competing with models like the BYD Shark 6 and Ford’s own offerings.

Under the hood, the JAC Hunter combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors at both the front and rear axles, delivering a remarkable 516 horsepower and 737 lb-ft of torque. That’s a lot of power, especially when you compare it to the BYD Shark 6 (430 hp, 479 lb-ft) or the Ranger Raptor (391 hp, 430 lb-ft).

The Hunter’s 31.2 kWh battery offers up to 100 km of all-electric range, plus a vehicle-to-load function, which is handy for turning your truck into a mobile power source. However, we’re still waiting on details like payload, towing capacity, and pricing.

Conversely, Foton's Tunland adopts a more pragmatic and straightforward approach. The V7 is marketed as a reliable workhorse, while the V9 offers more advanced suspension and a smoother ride for those who prioritize comfort on the road. Both models are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 161 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque.

While the specs for Australia haven’t been fully confirmed, it’s likely they’ll mirror those figures. Foton’s experience in commercial vehicles shines through here, offering a solid, straightforward pickup that’s perfect for those who want a reliable tool for the job.

In a market where performance and practicality are key, these two trucks are offering Australians some interesting new options—one focused on raw power and innovation, the other on tried-and-true reliability. The choice will depend on what kind of work (or play) you need your truck to handle.