Chery is looking for a name for its pickup truck: diesel PHEV is ready for launch

Chery has narrowed down the list of names for its new pickup truck from over 20,000 suggestions to nine finalists. The model, previously known as KP31, will enter the Australian market this year. The brand is clearly targeting a segment dominated by the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Isuzu D-Max. The shortlist includes the names Outrider, Orca, Ironbark, Bushwalker, Stockman, Longreach, Ridgeback, Terra, and Mate — all of which are somehow related to Australian culture and landscape.

For Chinese brands, Australia is one of the most challenging pickup truck markets: towing, payload, and reputation for heavy-duty use are critical here. Therefore, Chery is betting not only on technology but also on local brand adaptation.

Initially, the model will receive a plug-in hybrid system with a 2.5-liter turbodiesel. The company claims a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg and a payload of up to 1,000 kg — key parameters for commercial and recreational use. A gasoline PHEV will appear later.

The appearance of a diesel PHEV in the pickup truck segment is an attempt to combine range, towing capabilities, and reduced fuel consumption. This could be an alternative to classic diesels without a complete transition to a battery platform.