GWM P300 gains plug-in hybrid power
GWM has expanded its P300 line-up with the introduction of the P300 2.0T Pioneer Hi4-T PHEV, marking the arrival of the first electrified version of the bakkie range.
- Product News
- 7 October 2026
Range anxiety remains one of the main concerns for motorists considering a switch to electrified vehicles, particularly in markets where charging infrastructure is still developing. iCAUR believes its new V27 SUV offers an alternative by combining electric driving capability with extended driving range through a range-extender powertrain.
The V27 is based on the company's Golden REEV architecture, which uses electric motors for propulsion while relying on a petrol engine to generate electricity when required. The system is intended to deliver an electric-first driving experience without the need to depend entirely on public charging networks.
Power comes from a 34.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which allows the SUV to travel up to 150 km on electric power alone. For longer journeys, a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine operates as a generator, extending the vehicle's total driving range to more than 1 000 km.
Unlike conventional hybrid systems, the engine does not drive the wheels directly. Instead, it produces electricity to support the battery and electric motors, helping the system remain within its most efficient operating range. iCAUR says the engine achieves thermal efficiency of 45.79% and can convert each litre of fuel into 3.71 kWh of electricity.
The vehicle uses dual electric motors and incorporates several measures aimed at improving efficiency. In all-wheel-drive models, the front motor is activated only when additional grip is required, with the SUV otherwise operating in rear-wheel drive. According to the company, this approach reduces energy consumption compared with traditional all-wheel-drive systems.
A 10-in-1 electric drive unit also contributes to efficiency improvements. The compact system reduces size and weight while increasing power density, helping minimise energy losses throughout the drivetrain.
In addition to its propulsion technology, the V27 features vehicle-to-load functionality capable of supplying up to 6 kW of external power. The feature allows the vehicle to power equipment, appliances or other electrical devices when required.
The V27 is positioned as a model that can accommodate both daily commuting and longer-distance travel, offering drivers the option of electric-only operation for shorter trips while retaining the flexibility of an extended driving range when travelling further afield.
GWM has expanded its P300 line-up with the introduction of the P300 2.0T Pioneer Hi4-T PHEV, marking the arrival of the first electrified version of the bakkie range.
As a relatively new player in South Africa's motoring industry, LDV is often assumed to stand for "Light Delivery Vehicles". The acronym actually originates from Leyland DAF Vans, a heritage that dates to the founding of Leyland Motors in the UK in 1896. The brand is now part of the SAIC Motor Group, one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers.
SMSA Africa Logistics Group has added five Hino 300 diesel electric hybrid trucks with van bodies to its fleet, following a two-year trial of three such trucks in its delivery operation.
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Cars are the ultimate symbol of freedom, independence and individualism. They offer the freedom to ‘go anywhere,’ whenever it suits and with whom one chooses.
Sarah Redshaw
GWM has expanded its P300 line-up with the introduction of the P300 2.0T Pioneer Hi4-T PHEV, marking the arrival of the first electrified version of the bakkie range.
As a relatively new player in South Africa's motoring industry, LDV is often assumed to stand for "Light Delivery Vehicles". The acronym actually originates from Leyland DAF Vans, a heritage that dates to the founding of Leyland Motors in the UK in 1896. The brand is now part of the SAIC Motor Group, one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers.
Chery has named its first bakkie for South Africa Grootman, a name chosen by South Africans. The model is planned to make its local debut in the first quarter of 2027.