Whereas Chery grabbed headlines with a brand new Himla (what a reputation) pick-up truck model final yr, it has already usurped itself with a brand new idea truck revealed in Sydney right this moment. Codenamed KP31, it seems to be extra superior than the KP11 proven at Auto Shanghai, which has been launched in China because the Rely R08.
The present truck is previewing a manufacturing mannequin touchdown in Australia within the fourth quarter of this yr. Its styling is…by-product to say the least, being essentially the most overt copy of the Ford Bronco we’ve seen from China but (and sure, we embrace Ford’s personal “new vitality” model). The flat entrance with its full-width grille, round headlights and beefy plastic entrance bumper may be very paying homage to the American off-roader.
However hey, along with its box-flared fenders, upright double cab and chunky door handles and mirrors, it does make the KP31 look much more attention-grabbing than the milquetoast R08, doesn’t it? In fact, not like the Bronco, the Chery does have a full-sized mattress on the again, with built-in facet steps, some sci-fi-looking vertical taillights and a big Chery script stamped on the black plastic tailgate trim.
It’s best to know that the idea is huge, measuring 5,610 mm lengthy, 1,920 mm broad and 1,925 mm tall. The actual one received’t be wherever close to this large, however at 5,450 mm lengthy it’s going to nonetheless be 80 mm longer than an equal Ford Ranger. By the best way, the R08 is 120 mm shorter at a extra manageable 5,330 mm lengthy.
The KP31 will even differ from class norms beneath the bonnet, the place you’ll discover a diesel plug-in hybrid powertrain – the world’s first pick-up to take action, Chery says. That is headed by a 2.5 litre turbodiesel that has a thermal effectivity of 47%, leading to a ten% discount in gas consumption in comparison with a median diesel pick-up. The corporate can also be promising a 1,000 kg payload and three.5 tonne towing capability according to the section, in addition to claiming a 30% discount in NVH. A petroleum PHEV variant will be a part of the lineup subsequent yr.
As but, it’s unclear whether or not the KP31 might be offered beneath the Himla sub-brand or the principle Chery marque, and whether or not it’s going to take the place of the R08 within the firm’s world plans. Because it’s already set to be transformed to right-hand drive for the Australian market, it does seem more likely to arrive right here to deal with the Toyota Hilux, the Mitsubishi Triton and the aforementioned Ranger, together with the anticipated BYD Shark 6.
Trying to promote your automobile? Promote it with Carro.
