PIMS 2024 | The Changan Hunter might be the first range-extended pickup in PH

With most brands showcasing different forms of electrification at the recently concluded 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), it’s no surprise that Changan Auto Philippines also had their own electrified vehicle to show-off, and one that can change the game.

The Chinese automaker previewed what might become the first proper hybrid electric pickup truck to be made available locally, and not just any hybrid, it’s a range-extended EV. Oh and the name? It’s the Changan Hunter RE-EV.

Unlike most pickups which get turbodiesel powertrains under the hood, the Changan Hunter RE-EV instead gets a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that makes 190 horsepower, and acts as a generator for the truck’s 31.18 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. 

The RWD version gets a single electric motor with a total combined output of 176 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, while the AWD version gets dual electric motors with a total combined output of 272 horsepower and 470 Nm.

On pure electric power, the Hunter RE-EV has a claimed range of 180 kilometers, while total range for both the engine generator and motors is at 1,031 kilometers. 

As for how it looks, it’s as in-your-face as it gets with a large and wide front grille and T-shaped headlights in front. The rest of the exterior is your traditional three-box pickup truck until you open the uniquely-operated tailgate.

The tailgate can be opened in a traditional manner. Another way is to open a smaller portion if you only want to access the cargo bed for smaller items. Not only that, it can also be turned into “stairs” for easier access when loading.

Inside, the cabin does away with typical pickup macho looks in favor of a car-like cabin, using similar design cues as Changan’s crossovers. A single angled panel houses a 7.5-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

While this is just a preview, Changan Auto Philippines is targeting to launch the Hunter RE-EV locally next year with a starting price of below Php 2-million.