GWM has doubled down on its push into Australia’s utility vehicle market with sharper pricing and an extended electric driving range for its class-leading Cannon Alpha PHEV — a move that should catch the attention of Fleet Managers seeking to cut CO₂ emissions without compromising on capability.
The plug-in hybrid ute now offers an EV-only range of up to 115km (NEDC), enough to cover most daily driving needs for urban fleet users while still delivering the long-range and towing ability demanded in rural and regional operations. Combined with the internal combustion engine, the Cannon Alpha PHEV boasts a total driving range of 1060km and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500kg.
These updates come at a critical time for Fleet Managers balancing emission reduction goals against the limited availability of low-emission utes in Australia. The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV now represents one of the few commercially viable options that don’t require a full shift to battery-electric vehicles, offering the flexibility of dual energy sources with genuine off-road and load-carrying credentials.
More Range, Less Cost
The standout improvement in the updated Cannon Alpha PHEV is the extended electric-only driving range, now up to 115km — an increase that GWM claims reinforces the vehicle’s class-leading position. This means fleets operating in metro and urban areas can realistically operate on electric power alone for daily tasks, reducing fuel use and tailpipe emissions without changing driver behaviour.
At the same time, GWM has announced sharper driveaway pricing across nearly all states. The reductions — up to \$2,500 depending on the state — bring the Lux variant’s driveaway price to as low as \$61,490 in the ACT, with the high-spec Ultra variant starting from \$67,990 in the same region. These prices include a free 7kW home charger (valued at \$599) for contracts signed before June 30, 2025.
For Fleet Managers, this upfront cost reduction improves the business case and shortens the payback period compared to other low-emission vehicle options. Combined with GWM’s warranty and servicing package — 7-year/unlimited km warranty, 7 years of roadside assistance, and 7 years capped price servicing — the Cannon Alpha PHEV is positioned as a high-value, low-risk addition to any mixed fleet.
Specification Highlights
Under the bonnet, both Lux and Ultra variants feature a 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 37.1kWh traction battery. Total output is a commanding 300kW and 750Nm, delivered via a Hi4-T 4WD system with selectable drive modes including Eco, Sport, and low-range 4L for serious off-road capability.
Charging is managed via a CCS2 plug, with up to 50kW DC fast-charging support — good for a 30–80% top-up in around 24 minutes. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability up to 6kW is also standard, enabling power tools or mobile workstations to run directly from the vehicle battery.
From a spec perspective, even the Lux grade comes well-equipped with features like a 14.6-inch infotainment display (with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), 360-degree camera, LED headlights, digital instrument cluster, and adaptive cruise control.
The Ultra variant builds on this with leather-accented seats, panoramic sunroof, massaging front seats, heated steering wheel, HUD, 10-speaker Infinity audio system and automated parking functions — creature comforts that would once be unheard of in a dual-cab ute.
Fit for Fleet Use
Beyond the flashy features, the Cannon Alpha PHEV delivers where it matters for fleets: payload, towing, and GVM.
- Payload: 685kg
- GVM: 3,495kg
- Braked towing: 3,500kg
- Wading depth: 800mm
- Downball weight: 350kg
It’s also backed by safety credentials that include 7 airbags, AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise, blind spot detection, and trailer sway control.
Importantly for commercial buyers, the Cannon Alpha PHEV rides on coil-sprung multi-link rear suspension — a setup that prioritises comfort and stability when loaded or towing — and features front and rear ventilated disc brakes.
A PHEV Ute That Makes Sense
While most utes on the Australian market are still diesel-powered, growing pressure to reduce fleet emissions has left many Fleet Managers without viable alternatives. Battery-electric utes remain scarce, with limited payload or towing ratings and long lead times.
The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV provides a practical middle ground. It allows fleet operators to:
- Run on EV power for day-to-day trips
- Reduce fuel usage and CO₂ emissions
- Avoid range anxiety and recharging downtime on longer hauls
- Transition to low-emission transport using familiar vehicle architecture
For many organisations, this could be the bridge technology that allows gradual decarbonisation without disrupting operations.
Final Thoughts
GWM’s sharper pricing and increased electric range couldn’t come at a better time for Australian fleet buyers. With few low-emission utes available and even fewer at this price point, the Cannon Alpha PHEV stands out for its practicality, performance, and value.
For Fleet Managers under pressure to decarbonise while maintaining operational flexibility, this is a ute worth booking a test drive for. Early shipments are landing now, with test drives available via GWM dealers nationally from mid-May. Contracts signed before June 30 will benefit from the driveaway pricing and complimentary home charger.
With these updates, the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV moves beyond niche consideration and into serious fleet contention.
