Shark hunter: Chery Stockman is the new name for the super-efficient plug-in hybrid diesel ute designed to overtake the BYD Shark 6 and Ford Ranger PHEV
Chinese car-making giant Chery has named its first-ever ute for the Aussie market the Stockman after holding a competition to help decide on a badge for the all-new dual-cab 4×4 pick-up due to arrive later this year.
Developed under the KP31 codename, Chery said the more than 20,000 submissions from Australians included suggestions such as Orca, Terra, Outride, Ridgeback, Ironbark, Longreach and Mate for its BYD Shark 6 rival.
In the end, the winner was Victoria’s Steve Kodikara, who will receive a free ute when the first batch lands in Australia later this year.
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Reusing the Stockman badge last employed on Suzuki Sierra and Jimny-based utes sold locally from the early 1970s until 2000, the new Chery is expected to become Australia’s first plug-in hybrid diesel ute.
A more conventional petrol-powered PHEV variant has also been locked in for a 2027 debut.
First revealed by Chery earlier this year, the KP31 has been developed as a global ute platform and is expected to become one of the most technologically ambitious dual-cab contenders yet seen in Australia.
The diesel-electric version combines a plug-in hybrid system with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine.
The newcomer is expected to take direct aim at electrified rivals such as the BYD Shark 6 and Ford Ranger PHEV.
The mid-size Chery pick-up comes with a leaf-sprung rear end, a 1000kg payload and a 3500kg braked towing capacity.
Boosting its off-road capability, the Stockman boasts locking front, centre and rear differentials.
Integrated rear steps, heavy-duty six-stud wheels, durable front and rear bash plates, and the option of a snorkel intake all signal how rugged the new Chery will be.
The petrol-powered PHEV, meanwhile, will sacrifice some of the diesel’s capability in favour of more comfort-focused rear coil springs.
There is also evidence to suggest a seven-seat 4×4 wagon will follow in the same way Ford spins the Everest off the Ranger ute.
Inside, early images suggest even the turbo-diesel plug-in hybrid will come with high-end features including heated and ventilated seats, ambient lighting and a full-width panoramic roof.
The choice of the Stockman name has attracted attention from Suzuki Australia: “We’re flattered to see the Stockman name back in the headlines,” said Suzuki Australia general manager Michael Pachota.
“For many Australians, Stockman is a name that has been synonymous with Suzuki adventure and capability for decades, earning its place in Australian motoring folklore through the Sierra Stockman of the 1980s and 1990s.
“As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.”
“We’re proud of the heritage Suzuki built around the Stockman name and we’re delighted to see it remains memorable enough to inspire others all these years later. While others may adopt the name, its place in Australian automotive history will always be closely linked with Suzuki.”
As well as the new Chery Stockman, it is believed the Chinese brand will also roll out a smaller all-electric ute and a full-size pick-up to rival the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
Soon after the Stockman’s introduction, Chery-owned Jetour is expected to bring its F700 ute to Australia, with a local arrival currently slated for late 2027.
With a ute-rich offering in Australia, Chery hopes to maintain its momentum as it pushes towards becoming one of the country’s top-five best-selling automotive brands.
