Utes have all the time done a roaring trade in Australia, and diesel power has long dominated. However the segment is changing quickly, and in recent times hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric (EV) options have arrived to offer ute buyers more ways to chop fuel use.
Electrified utes proceed to be vastly outnumbered by traditional combustion-powered models, but the sector is more competitive than it was a 12 months ago. Even so, the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV has again come out on top, taking Best Electrified Ute within the 2026 CarExpert Alternative Awards.
It’s the second consecutive 12 months the Cannon Alpha PHEV has won the award, this time beating the KGM Musso EV for the highest honour. It also beat the BYD Shark 6, which gained a more cost-effective cab/chassis variant and a more capable 2.0-litre Performance flagship shortly after our voting was conducted for 2026.
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Introduced to Australia in 2025, the Cannon Alpha PHEV sits alongside diesel versions of GWM’s flagship ute range. The Lux PHEV is currently priced at $57,490 drive-away, while the Ultra PHEV is listed at $64,490 drive-away.
The PHEV combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electrical motor, a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 37.1kWh battery pack, for total system outputs of 300kW and 750Nm.
That offers it an extended claimed 115km of pure-electric driving range on the NEDC cycle, plus combined fuel consumption of just 1.7L/100km.
However the Cannon Alpha PHEV’s appeal isn’t limited to its efficiency numbers. It retains a 3500kg braked towing capability, true 4×4 capability with low-range gearing, and serious off-road hardware including locking differentials.
The Cannon Alpha PHEV also boasts a luxurious, SUV-like ride and a luxurious, SUV-like cabin, with the flagship Ultra PHEV adding luxury items similar to Nappa leather-accented trim and heated, ventilated and massaging front seats – features which are virtually unheard of in Australia’s ute market.
The result’s a ute that may cover much of the every day commute on electricity, while still offering the towing, touring and off-road ability many Australian buyers expect from a dual-cab.
While the electrified ute field has grown, the Cannon Alpha PHEV continues to face out for its mixture of value, range and hardware.
“The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV combines the aptitude demanded by traditional ute buyers with the type of luxuries and tech that the Shark offers, together with about 100km of real-world zero-emissions range. In case your ute can be your loved ones camping chariot, it shapes as a really compelling option,” said marketplace editor James Wong.
“I actually have pointed quite a lot of people to purchase a Cannon Alpha over anything,” said our head of video, Sean Lander.
“It delivers capable towing, a good load tray, higher fuel economy than the Shark, and an actual driveline with mechanical differentials slightly than simulated, plus the power for the petrol engine to drive the wheels at any speed.
“It’s really comfortable, very spacious and appears pretty tough. All belongings you want in your pickup.
“From the choices currently on the table, and for the value, the Cannon Alpha PHEV can be the one for me.”
To see all of the CarExpert Alternative winners, click here.
This Article First Appeared At www.carexpert.com.au
