Motoring News
Article By Malcolm Libera
A first-of-its-kind bakkie launching in South Africa . Changan South Africa is launching the world’s first range-extending electric vehicle (REEV) Bakkie in South Africa in early November, with pricing still to be announced.
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While pricing has not yet been revealed, the launch marks a notable development for the country’s vehicle landscape, bringing a new type of hybrid technology to one of South Africa’s most popular segments.
According to Changan South Africa, the Hunter REEV combines the traditional capability of a bakkie with the efficiency and technology of electric mobility.
The model uses a system that blends electric drive with a petrol-powered generator that extends range once the battery runs low.
Visually, the Hunter REEV stands out from typical bakkies on South African roads. Changan described its design as “modern, confident, and unmistakably unique,” featuring smooth lines, a redesigned grille, LED headlamps, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The company added that it aimed to create a vehicle that merges toughness with a more refined, futuristic look.
Inside, the Hunter REEV departs from the utilitarian interiors common in work-focused pickups. The cabin includes wraparound digital displays, wireless charging, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system.
There’s also support for Wi-Fi connectivity and over-the-air updates, meaning software improvements can be installed remotely.
“We wanted the interior to feel more like a premium SUV than a workhorse,” said Changan, adding that the vehicle’s design focuses on comfort, ergonomics, and technology.
The Hunter REEV is powered by a combination of a 31.2kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery and a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol generator.
The battery provides up to 145km of electric-only driving on the CLTC cycle, while the range-extending engine increases the total driving distance to around 1,000km.
Combined, the setup delivers 200kW of power and 470Nm of torque through an electric four-wheel-drive system.
Changan said the system is designed to give drivers the capability and strength expected from a bakkie, while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
It also allows the Hunter REEV to maintain the towing and off-road functionality that many buyers in South Africa still expect from a pickup.
What to expect
Safety and driver assistance features are a key part of the new bakkie. The Hunter REEV includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a 540° panoramic camera system with parking assist.
It also features electronic stability control, traction control, ABS, EBD, trailer sway control, hill-start assist, and hill-descent control. Multiple airbags and brake assist systems add to its safety credentials.
“The Hunter REEV is not just powerful—it’s built to protect,” Changan said. For the company, the model represents an attempt to broaden the reach of electrification beyond the passenger car market.
“This vehicle shows that electric and hybrid technology can also serve the toughest, hardest-working vehicles on South African roads,” said Changan.
All Hunter REEV models will come with a five-year or 150,000km warranty. The company confirmed that introductory pricing will apply at launch, though specific figures are still to be announced.
While it remains to be seen how the South African market will respond to the new electric bakkie, Changan believes the Hunter REEV offers a glimpse into how the utility vehicle sector could evolve.
“The Hunter REEV is part of a global move toward more sustainable and intelligent vehicles,” the company said.
“For South Africans, it’s an opportunity to experience that transition in a way that doesn’t compromise the practicality and endurance they expect from a bakkie.”
Article Credit to: BusinessTech Motoring.
What is your view of the new Changan range-extending electric vehicle (REEV) Bakkie soon to be launched in South Africa? Let us know in the comments below. Also, if you found our content informative, do like it and share it with your friends.
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