JAC Motors South Africa is accelerating its momentum in the local bakkie market, with the soon-to-launch T9 Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) positioned as the brand’s next big step forward. The arrival of this advanced hybrid model could not only reinforce JAC’s sales growth but also challenge performance benchmarks set by heavyweight rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor and BYD Shark.
A New Contender in the Power Race
Performance enthusiasts will be watching closely as the T9 PHEV brings serious numbers to the table. Pairing a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (160kW/370Nm) with dual electric motors, the T9 generates a combined output of 290kW and 670Nm of torque. The front motor adds 60kW/150Nm, while the rear unit contributes 70kW/150Nm, creating an all-wheel-drive system that blends efficiency with punch.
For context, Ford’s Ranger Raptor offers 292kW and 583Nm, while the BYD Shark delivers 321kW and 650Nm. This means the T9 PHEV is neck-and-neck with the Raptor in terms of power and even edges past the Shark on torque, raising the question: could this be South Africa’s fastest bakkie?
T9 Plug-In Hybrid Key Features
| Model | Engine & Hybrid Setup | Power Output | Torque | Drivetrain | Unique Selling Point |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JAC T9 PHEV | 2.0L turbo-petrol + dual electric motors (front & rear) | 290kW | 670Nm | AWD Hybrid | Strong torque, eco-friendly hybrid tech |
| Ford Ranger Raptor | 3.0L twin-turbo V6 petrol | 292kW | 583Nm | AWD | Off-road benchmark, proven durability |
| BYD Shark | 1.5L turbo-petrol + hybrid system | 321kW | 650Nm | AWD Hybrid | Most powerful in class, cutting-edge EV tech |
Also read: GWM Revises Prices for Haval H6 GT: Hybrid Power Meets Combustion Muscle
Tested for Local Conditions
The first T9 PHEVs have already landed in South Africa this month. Ahead of the official launch, JAC’s local technical teams are putting the hybrid bakkie through its paces. These tests will measure everything from energy efficiency and fuel consumption to off-road performance ensuring the model is tuned to meet the unique demands of South African drivers.
Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, commented:
“With our leadership in battery-electric trucks, the T9 PHEV strengthens our local line-up. It gives customers the chance to embrace green-energy mobility while enjoying an innovative, sustainable and performance-driven vehicle.”
Expanding the T-Series Line-Up
The T9 PHEV joins JAC’s growing T-Series family, which also includes the upcoming T9 Hunter Special Edition and the T6 2.0L CTi single cab. The T9 has already carved out a reputation for fuel efficiency, value-for-money, and strong specification levels.
Sales figures reflect this momentum: by the end of 2025, the flagship T9 range recorded a 30% year-on-year growth, contributing to a 36% increase across the wider T-Series (T6, T8, and T9). JAC Motors’ overall South African sales rose by an impressive 49% in the same period.
A Rising Force in South Africa
JAC Motors, with over six decades of heritage and operations in more than 130 markets, has firmly established itself in South Africa. After just eight years of local trading, the company has become one of JAC China’s Top 10 global distributors underscoring the brand’s strong performance and local appeal.
With the T9 PHEV ready to take on South Africa’s toughest bakkie rivals, JAC Motors looks poised to make 2025 another landmark year in its growth story.
Related article: Armormax Ford Ranger: The Ultimate High-Tech Security Vehicle
