The future of the bakkie is electric
Changan might not be the first name that springs to mind when thinking of bakkies, but the Chinese brand has quietly been building a solid reputation for reliability and innovation. Now it’s ready to make a serious statement with the introduction of the Hunter REEV – South Africa’s first range-extended electric bakkie.
While official pricing has yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to come in below or around R800 000, positioning it as a strong alternative to conventional diesel double cabs. With its bold design, electric drive system and impressive technology, the Hunter REEV signals that the future of the bakkie is no longer limited to fuel pumps.
A bold step forward in design
From the first glance, the Hunter REEV makes it clear that it’s not just another workhorse. The design is modern and purposeful, featuring a distinctive new grille, slim LED headlamps and muscular 18-inch alloys. The lines are crisp and aerodynamic, hinting at the advanced technology beneath the surface. Changan describes the styling as a complete evolution rather than a mild update – a blend of rugged bakkie strength and futuristic sophistication.
It’s an eye-catching package that confidently merges traditional utility with next-generation aesthetics, and it’s likely to turn heads both on the job site and in the city.
Comfort meets technology
Inside, the Hunter REEV leans more towards a premium SUV than a rough-and-ready workhorse. The cabin features wraparound digital displays, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Wi-Fi connectivity, wireless charging and an overall level of refinement not often found in this segment. Quality materials and thoughtful ergonomics make for a comfortable space whether you’re tackling a long commute or heading into the bush for the weekend.
It’s clear that Changan is targeting a new kind of bakkie buyer – one who still values practicality but doesn’t want to compromise on comfort or tech.
Power and performance
Under the skin lies what makes the Hunter REEV truly unique. It uses a 31.2kWh LFP battery pack paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol generator that serves purely as a range extender. Together, they produce 200kW and 470Nm, with up to 145km of pure electric driving on a full charge (CLTC). Once the battery runs low, the petrol generator takes over to recharge it, extending the total range to around 1 000km.
That means owners can enjoy the smooth, silent power of an EV in urban driving, while still having the long-distance reassurance of a petrol engine. The Hunter REEV also features electric four-wheel drive, ensuring that its off-road capability matches its forward-thinking powertrain.
Safety and driver assistance
Changan hasn’t cut corners on safety either. The Hunter REEV is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features, including electronic stability control, traction control, ABS with EBD, trailer sway control, hill-start and hill-descent assist, as well as multiple airbags.
Advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and a 540-degree panoramic camera with parking assist add further peace of mind.
A sign of things to come
The arrival of the Hunter REEV marks an important milestone for the South African market. It demonstrates that electrification is not just for small city cars or luxury SUVs – it’s ready to tackle the hard-working world of bakkies too.
With the Hunter REEV, Changan aims to give local buyers a practical, capable and environmentally conscious alternative that doesn’t require daily charging infrastructure or major lifestyle changes. It’s a bridge between today’s tough utility vehicles and tomorrow’s cleaner, more intelligent transport solutions.
All new Changan models will be backed by a 5-year/150 000km warranty, offering early adopters both confidence and value.
