Foton Tunland PHEV Could Become a New BYD Shark 6 Rival in Australia

 Foton Tunland PHEV Could Become a New BYD Shark 6 Rival in Australia

Foton could soon introduce a new plug-in hybrid version of its Tunland dual-cab pickup in Australia, potentially giving buyers another fuel-efficient option in the growing hybrid ute market

The Foton Tunland PHEV has officially received approval for sale in Australia, although this does not automatically mean the company has confirmed its local launch plans

According to reports, CarsGuide has contacted Foton to clarify whether the plug-in hybrid pickup will arrive in Australian showrooms, with further details expected once the company responds

If launched, the Tunland PHEV would compete with several electrified pickups, including the BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV, JAC Hunter PHEV and Chery Stockman

2026 Foton Tunland PHEV Specifications and Performance

Foton first introduced the Tunland PHEV to an international audience at the Munich Motor Show earlier in 2026

Although Australian specifications have not been announced, its global powertrain details offer an idea of what customers could expect

The plug-in hybrid pickup combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors, producing a combined output of 350kW and 800Nm of torque

Power comes from a 32.85kWh battery pack, which provides an electric-only driving range of up to 100km under the WLTC testing cycle

Foton also claims the vehicle can deliver a combined driving range of up to 1,000km, making it an interesting option for drivers who need both efficiency and long-distance capability

The Tunland PHEV is also designed for demanding conditions, with a claimed 3,500kg braked towing capacity and an 800mm water-wading depth

It offers a minimum ground clearance of 250mm, suggesting that the pickup is built to handle challenging roads and off-road adventures

Plug-In Hybrid Power Could Join the Existing Diesel Lineup

Foton returned to the Australian market in 2025 with the Tunland pickup after a six-year absence

The brand is now distributed by Inchcape, the company also responsible for managing Subaru in Australia

Currently, the Tunland lineup includes two models, the V7 and V9, both powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine featuring 48V mild-hybrid technology

Their combined powertrain output stands at 120kW and 450Nm of torque

While these figures are relatively modest compared with the upcoming PHEV version, both diesel models offer practical capabilities for work and everyday driving

The V7 and V9 can tow up to 3,500kg with a braked trailer, while their payload capacity reaches approximately 1,000kg depending on the selected variant

Foton Tunland V7 vs V9: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between the two existing Tunland models is their rear suspension setup, along with some exterior styling changes

The Tunland V7 uses a traditional leaf-spring rear suspension system, which is generally more suitable for carrying heavy loads and commercial applications

Meanwhile, the Tunland V9 features a multi-link rear suspension setup designed to deliver a more comfortable driving experience, particularly on regular roads and during passenger journeys

If the Tunland PHEV reaches Australian dealerships, it could give Foton a stronger position in the increasingly competitive pickup market

With its powerful hybrid system, electric driving capability and impressive towing figures, the new model could become an interesting alternative to the BYD Shark 6 and other plug-in hybrid utes

However, buyers will have to wait for Foton to confirm its Australian launch plans, pricing and final specifications

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Final Words

The Foton Tunland PHEV could bring serious competition to the BYD Shark 6 with its powerful plug-in hybrid system, impressive electric range and practical towing capabilities

Its Australian launch is not confirmed yet, but the model could become an exciting addition to the growing hybrid pickup market