By Xolile Hopa

GWM South Africa has introduced the P300 2.0T Pioneer Hi4-T PHEV, the first electrified derivative in its P300 bakkie line-up.

Driving the P300 PHEV is a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine 180kW, 380Nm working alongside a 130kW, 495Nm electric motor integrated into the nine-speed automatic gearbox. The two combine for 310kW and 750Nm, delivered to all four wheels. Where many plug-in hybrids lean on stored battery power, the P300 runs its engine and motor in parallel. GWM says that helps it keep pulling strongly up long climbs and under heavy loads, even once the battery is flat.

The 33.1kWh lithium iron phosphate battery offers a claimed electric-only range of up to 115km (NEDC), enough for the school run and the daily commute without the engine starting. GWM rates combined fuel consumption at 2.4L/100km. DC fast charging at up to 110kW can lift the battery from 30% to 80% in roughly 18 minutes. The pack sits on the frame rails, is rated IP68 and has survived a 28-day salt-spray test.

It also works as a mobile power supply. Vehicle-to-Load outlets provide up to 6kW when parked and 4kW while driving, enough, GWM says to run camping equipment or power tools without a generator.

Despite the electric hardware, the P300 PHEV retains its working-bakkie underpinnings: a body-on-frame chassis, part-time four-wheel drive with low range, an electronic rear diff lock and 200mm of ground clearance. Braked towing capacity is 3 500kg and a Trailer Driving Mode retunes the powertrain and switches off driver-assist systems that could raise false alarms when a trailer is attached.

The cabin leans towards SUV territory with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 50W wireless charger, heated and ventilated leather front seats, a heated steering wheel and a sunroof. Standard safety kit includes Level 2 driver assistance, automatic emergency braking, a 360° camera system with Transparent Chassis View and six airbags.

Pricing 

P300 D-CAB 2.0T Pioneer Hi4-T PHEV                R914,900.00

Vehicle Warrenty

• Vehicle warranty: 7 years / 200 000km
• High-voltage battery warranty: 8 years / 150 000km
• Service plan: 7 years / 75 000km
• Roadside assistance: 7 years, unlimited km
• Service intervals: every 12 months or 15 000km