Chery is developing a new pickup truck codenamed KP31, which will be launched later this year in the global market as the first diesel plug-in hybrid truck. Destined to rival the Toyota Hilux, it will be an interesting product in itself. Read below what to expect from this pickup truck.
Meanwhile, you can find the best used Chery cars at Cars24 UAE.
Also read: 2026 Porsche Macan Turbo EV launched in the UAE
What to expect from the Chery KP31 diesel PHEV truck?
Recently revealed by Chery, the Chinese carmaker is developing the first diesel plug-in hybrid truck, which has been codenamed internally as KP31. Chery has decided to introduce the ute in the Australian market by the end of this year under the Rely brand.
As far as the details are concerned, the KP31 is likely to be powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel engine, which will be paired to an electric motor setup. Although the details regarding its EV setup are unknown, it will have a payload capacity of 1 tonne and 3.5 tonne of towing capacity.
It is suspected that Chery will launch it as Rely P3X, which will boast a dual-cab design with a length of 5.6 metres. The concept vehicle was already showcased in Australia, as it had the curvy design language with the twin vertical headlamps, flared wheel arches, and looked like the Jeep Gladiator.
Upon launch, it will become the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid vehicle. Chery is expected to offer 47% efficiency with this powertrain, and it will offer 40% less vibration along with 10% more fuel efficiency as compared to a regular diesel pickup truck.
The overall build of the Chery KP31 or Rely P3X diesel PHEV truck will be towards highway and tarmac comfort, rather than 4X4 capabilities. Hence, it will form a good rival to the new 2026 Toyota Hilux hybrid, which has been launched internationally and is expected to launch in the UAE later this year.
When will it launch in the UAE?
As of now, there is no information available regarding the launch of this plug-in hybrid diesel truck in the UAE. It will be initially launched in the Australian market, which has a higher number of diesel pickup truck owners.
Meanwhile, we can not deny the possibility of this pickup truck launching in the UAE, as Chery has been performing well in the Middle East with its products. A diesel PHEV truck will likely offer strong competition in the UAE to its rivals like the BYD Shark 6, Kia Tasman, and the current-gen Toyota Hilux.
