Great Wall Motors (GWM), the eminent Chinese automotive manufacturer, has unveiled two new vehicles, the P500 Double-Cab Bakkie and the Tank 500 SUV, in a bid to fortify its rapidly growing portfolio. These latest additions underscore GWM’s ambition to expand its footprint and continue its trajectory as a formidable player in the global automotive industry.
The P500 Double-Cab Bakkie arrives with considerable fanfare, distinguished by its dual powertrain options. Customers may opt for the innovative Petrol Electric Hybrid (HEV) model, which marries a potent 325-volt electric motor with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, generating a combined output of 255kW and an impressive 648Nm of torque. This hybrid model, equipped with a 9-speed automatic transmission, underscores GWM’s commitment to sustainability and technological advancement. The HEV’s intelligent hybrid drive system boasts a 78kW (268Nm) electric motor, complemented by a 180kW (380Nm) petrol engine, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres.
Alternatively, for those inclined towards a more conventional powertrain, the P500 also offers a 2.4-litre Turbo Diesel model. This variant produces 135kW of power and 480Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption rate of 8.6 litres per 100 kilometres. Both models are designed to provide robust performance on diverse terrains, affirming GWM’s assertion that the P500 is “arguably the most well-equipped bakkie on the market.”
Kevin Li, Managing Director of GWM South Africa, highlighted the brand’s utilisation of China’s leadership in technological innovation. “The P500 bakkie is a thrilling driver’s vehicle with rugged capabilities on and off-road,” Li remarked, emphasising GWM’s innovative approach to design and engineering.
The P500 Double-Cab Bakkie is replete with an array of premium features that are typically found in luxury vehicles. These include a 360-degree camera, anti-collision radar, roof rails, a panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide function, and a sophisticated Head-Up Display. The vehicle also features a multi-media infotainment screen and a 10-speaker Harman Infinity™ audio system, ensuring an immersive auditory experience.
Safety remains paramount in GWM’s design philosophy, as evidenced by the inclusion of advanced safety features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and a Driver Fatigue Monitoring System. The vehicle is further fortified with seven airbags, including a central airbag designed to prevent the passenger and driver from colliding in the event of an accident.
The GWM P500 range is available in three distinct models:
- GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Luxury at R799,900,
- GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Super Luxury at R889,900,
- GWM P500 2.0T HEV 9HAT 4X4 Ultra Luxury at R999,900.
Each model is backed by an extensive array of warranties and service plans, including a 5-Year/75,000 km Service Plan, a 7-Year/200,000 km Warranty, a 5-Year unlimited km Body & Paint Warranty, an 8-Year/150,000 km High Voltage Warranty for the HEV, and a 7-Year, unlimited km Roadside Assist plan.
The introduction of the P500 Double-Cab Bakkie and Tank 500 SUV to the South African market is a testament to GWM’s enduring commitment to innovation, design, and quality. As the company continues to leverage China’s leadership in technological advancements, these new models are poised to make a significant impact in the competitive automotive landscape.
