Why GWM Hybrids and PHEVs Are Built for Australia’s Roads

As Australians, we know that driving isn’t just about short commutes it’s about long stretches of highway, road trips that can run hundreds of kilometres, and the peace of mind of knowing you’ll get there without compromise. That’s where hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles shine, and why GWM is investing heavily in this technology across its current range.

Hybrids and PHEVs aren’t just about saving fuel or being “greener.” They’re about giving drivers more choice, more flexibility, and more range. With the added support of a petrol engine alongside electric power, you’re not limited to charging stations or worried about running out of battery. Instead, you enjoy the benefits of both systems working together to give you extended driving capability.

Key Benefits of Hybrids & PHEVs

More Range, Not Less

One of the biggest myths about electrified vehicles is that they reduce your driving distance. In reality, GWM’s hybrids and PHEVs combine battery power with a petrol engine to give you longer overall range than a petrol-only vehicle.

• For everyday driving, the electric system takes the load, reducing fuel use.

• On longer trips, once the battery is depleted, the petrol engine keeps you moving — often at better efficiency than a traditional engine on its own.

• Some PHEV models, like the Haval H6GT PHEV, deliver up to 180km of electric driving before the petrol engine even switches on. That means local errands or short trips can often be done entirely on electric power, while still having petrol available for extended journeys.

Lower Running Costs

When driving around town or to nearby communities, hybrids and PHEVs use far less fuel. Every time you slow down or brake, the vehicle recaptures energy and stores it in the battery for later use. Over the long term, this adds up to noticeable savings at the bowser, especially important as fuel prices continue to fluctuate.

Environmentally Smarter

While long-distance reliability is critical, many Australians are also looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Hybrids and PHEVs lower tailpipe emissions by using electric drive where possible, while still giving drivers the reassurance of petrol power when needed.

Strong Performance & Capability

GWM’s hybrid and PHEV systems aren’t just about economy. Thanks to their advanced Hi4 technology, models such as the Cannon Alpha PHEV ute combine petrol and electric power for impressive torque and pulling strength. This makes them highly capable not just on highways, but also when towing, carrying loads, or tackling rougher roads.

GWM’s Hybrid & PHEV Range in Australia

GWM has rolled out electrification across its SUV and ute lineup, proving this technology isn’t reserved for small city cars, it’s here for the vehicles Australians actually drive.

• Haval H6 Hybrid: Already a popular SUV, the hybrid variant delivers excellent efficiency and smoother performance, with the petrol engine always there to back you up for longer trips.

• Haval Jolion Hybrid: A compact SUV with the benefits of hybrid drive, giving more flexibility for everyday use and trips away.

• Haval H6GT PHEV: With one of the longest electric driving ranges of any plug-in SUV in its class (around 180km electric only), with petrol backup extending the total range for cross-country driving.

• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: One of Australia’s first plug-in hybrid utes, combining a petrol engine with a large battery pack capable of over 100km of electric driving. With both power sources working together, this ute delivers low fuel use without sacrificing towing, payload, or long-distance reliability.

Why It Matters for Regional Drivers

Living in regional areas means we often travel further between towns, services, and destinations. For many, the idea of relying purely on a battery doesn’t feel practical yet. That’s why hybrids and PHEVs make so much sense here:

• You can use electric power when it suits, but never be limited by it.

• The combination of petrol and electric systems gives you greater driving range than a petrol engine alone.

• GWM’s hybrid and PHEV technology is designed to handle Australia’s unique conditions, from long highways to the occasional off-road detour.

The Road Ahead

For drivers in Albany and beyond, GWM’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid range represents the best of both worlds. You get the efficiency of electric driving when it makes sense, without compromising the long-distance reliability that Australians rely on.

Whether it’s the everyday practicality of the Haval H6 Hybrid, the extended electric range of the H6GT PHEV, or the groundbreaking Cannon Alpha PHEV ute, GWM is proving that hybrids don’t mean less driving range, they mean more.