The smaller of the two models in GWM’s robust off-roader family has yet another drivetrain.

LAUNCHED as a turbo-petrol, with a turbo-petrol hybrid and a turbo-diesel subsequently introducing, the smaller - but still sizeable - member of GWM’s Tank family is now adopting plug-in hybrid power.

Standing as the maker’s fifth plug-in hybrid, the Tank 300 Hi4-T will avail from next month, spanning across Lux and Ultra grades, these respectively costing $63,990 and $68,990.

It uses the same plug-in hybrid system as the larger Tank 500 SUV and Cannon Alpha utility, combining a 180kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine with a 120kW/400Nm electric motor.

System outputs are rated at 300kW and 750Nm, for a claimed zero to 100kmh acceleration time of 6.7 seconds.

Fuel consumption and electric pure ranges remain unclear.

The only figures from the brand are from China’s WLTC lab testing which has no status here.

As of January 1, NZ only accepts a WLTP calibration; that’s not been forthcoming from GWM, which bases in Australia where the NEDC scale is favoured. That measurement stopped applying at end of 2025, having been found by NZ authorities to be questionable.

The WLTC data suggests the same 37.1kWh battery pack as its siblings is rated for 105km of electric-only driving range. Fuel consumption based on the same test cycles is rated at 2.06 litres per 100 kilometres with a charged battery, or 8.8L/100km on a depleted one. That compares to consumption claims of 8.5L/100km for the 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, and 9.86L/100km for the 2.0-litre non-hybrid turbo-petrol, under the same testing standards.

GWM’s chief operating officer for here and Australia, John Kett, says the powertrain’s introduction shows his brand’s commitment to offering best-in-class powertrain options for New Zealand buyers has never been stronger.

A plus point of the PHEV tech is a potential for low emissions, which is important under our Clean Car legislation, which is designed to compel distributors to increasingly reduce their CO2 fleet averages.

Kett says with petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains available, GWM delivers an unmatched breadth of technology here.

“As the new CCS are likely to change the New Zealand automotive landscape like never before, GWM stands ready to deliver more technology for less.”

In other GWM news, the brand has a new managing director for NZ and Australia. Andrew Gao began his tenure yesterday. He replaces Charles Zhao.