Just when we were saying that the diesel era is over, China has decided to push it to the frontlines of the automotive battlefront with the world’s first-ever diesel plug-in hybrid.
I think there is no denying that China has significant influence over the car industry, with the entire world (except the United States) rushing to let in its cheap electric vehicles. But even the U.S. can’t escape the ever-changing automotive landscape inspired by China’s innovations, with Ford announcing its own upcoming line of sub-$40,000 electric vehicles — and even upheaving its iconic assembly line processes to do so. China’s cheapo cars, super fast adaptation to new technology, and rapidly placed regulations have the rest of the world stumbling to keep up.
Feeling pretty defeated in the EV battle against China, Stellantis had even started considering the revival of diesel vehicles in Europe despite the region’s strict regulations against the fuel source. I even called the move “desperate.” But China has even beaten other automakers to this space as well, announcing the KP31 ute concept with a plug-in hybrid diesel system in Australia.
The Chery KP31 is a what now?
Chery has introduced us to what may be the world’s first plug-in diesel hybrid, revealed in Sydney, Australia in late February. While only a concept at the Sydney showcase, the Chery KP31 will be in production by the last quarter of 2026.
The ute will combine hybrid technology with the benefits of 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel-powered engines to reach maximum fuel efficiency, reach a payload of 2,200 pounds, and tow up to 7,716 pounds. But it’ll do it with a 30% vibration reduction compared to regular diesel powertrains and with a thermal efficiency rated at 47%.
“We’re incredibly excited to finally reveal the KP31 ute concept vehicle, and this marks the next step in bringing it to the Australian market,” said Lucas Harris Chery Australia Chief Operating Officer. “It’s also riveting to be the first brand to offer a diesel PHEV in the dual-cab ute class, which will be our key point of difference compared to the competition.”
While at first it seems counter-intuitive to bring these two worlds together, it sorta does make sense. Diesel’s leg-up on the electric vehicle market is its incredible miles per gallon, which has yet to be reached by electric vehicles (key word “yet”). However, hybrids are also known for exceptional range, meaning the Chery KP31 could have mind-boggling range
So why hasn’t anyone else done it?
“A lot of people have not really been focusing on the diesel for the future because the emission requirements become much more difficult,” Chery’s Peter Matkin told CarExpert.“They’re [the emissions] are more difficult in a diesel than they are in the gasoline engine, so you’re having to put a lot more after treatment in selective catalytic reduction.”
Basically, owners of the Chery KP31 may need to regularly buy additives that are used to ensure the vehicle meets emissions regulations, adding this diesel exhaust fluid to the vehicle’s built-in SCR system. But it could be worth it for off-roaders that want crazy range and towing capabilities.
We don’t know the specifics of the Chery KP31’s powertrain or exterior just yet, but the automaker has said that this ute is aimed at off-road enthusiasts. The plastic cladding around the fenders, its all-terrain tires, and recovery tracks on the bed rack definitely supports this claim.
Either way, it’s another innovative Chinese pickup truck that America won’t be getting, which is unfortunate because it seems like a gateway vehicle for those that are too scared to make the switch to EVs (sorta like getting men to use face wash by calling it GRIME BE GONE ACTION WIPES, now with sandalwood and citrus smell.) Either way, I’m sure the off-roading hybrid diesel ute will have some impact on the car industry at large, with other automakers rushing to keep up with this new twist in the EV race.
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