Chery Stockman Plug-in Diesel Pickup Targets HiLux

Chery is preparing to enter the heated market for plug-in hybrid pickups with the Stockman, a diesel plug-in hybrid the company says will compete with established rivals such as the Toyota Hilux. Chery first showed a concept called KP31 in winter and says it finalised plans earlier this year; deliveries to customers are planned to begin early next year as the manufacturer publishes the model's key technical specifications.

Powertrain and towing capability

The Stockman uses a different combustion engine approach to its nearest rival, the BYD Shark 6: instead of a petrol engine it pairs a four-cylinder 2.5 litre turbocharged diesel with an electric motor and a 34 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Chery quotes a combined output of 469 horsepower and 800 newton metres of torque. The company notes the Stockman produces 100 Nm more torque than the BYD Shark 6. Chery also rates the pickup to tow 3,500 kilograms, placing it level with competitors including the BYD Shark 6, Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Kia Tassen and Mazda BT-50.

Off-road gear, electric range and interior

Chery has equipped the Stockman for off-road use: it is fitted as standard with front, central and rear differential locks, all-terrain tyres, double-wishbone front suspension and a leaf-spring rear axle. The company claims an all-electric driving range of 96 kilometres, which Chery highlights as useful for urban trips.

The cabin specifications released by Chery include a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, a 14-speaker audio system and a full suite of driver assistance systems. Chery expects to price the Stockman in a range similar to its direct competitors; observers note the BYD Shark 6 is priced at 62,900 dollars, which provides a likely reference point for the Stockman in markets where comparable pricing applies.

Chery says the diesel plug-in hybrid will be followed by a petrol plug-in hybrid variant, which the company expects to feature an independent rear suspension.