At first glance, it looks like just a copy of the American legend, but under the hood it hides a powertrain that many a European manufacturer would envy.
Chinese car giant Chery is preparing a fierce attack on the extremely competitive mid-size pickup truck segment. Their new trump card, announced with the KP31 concept, is expected to hit showrooms in the last quarter of 2026. The rugged vehicle with a classic ladder-type chassis is aimed squarely at the best-selling Ford Ranger, and it promises a revolution under the hood. The KP31 will be the first in its class to offer a plug-in hybrid drivetrain in combination with a diesel engine, which could shake up the market for construction equipment and adventure vehicles.
The newcomer moves away from soft lines in favor of a square, fearless silhouette that strongly resembles the Ford Bronco with a cargo box. The front part is adorned with round LED headlights and an off-road bumper, and the concept also boasts hefty off-road tires measuring 285/70 R17, a snorkel for overcoming deep water and a carrier on the bed. The production model will be slightly shorter than the concept with a length of 5,45 meters, but with a width of 1,92 meters and a height of 1,93 meters it will still be extremely well-built and adapted to the dimensions that are standard in this class.
The heart of the drivetrain is a 2,5-liter turbodiesel, which is said to be 10% more efficient than conventional units and 30% quieter in operation. Plug-in hybrid technology will allow the vehicle to operate on electric power for a certain amount of time, while providing additional power when needed most. Despite the hybridization, Chery does not compromise on usability: the KP31 boasts a thousand kilograms of payload and the ability to tow a trailer weighing up to 3,5 tons, which puts it on par with the most powerful diesel competitors and even ahead of most current plug-in hybrids.
For demanding off-road adventures, four-wheel drive with front, center and rear differential locks and selectable driving modes for different surfaces will be available. After the start of sales of the diesel hybrid at the end of 2026, a gasoline plug-in hybrid will join the offer in 2027. Chery emphasizes that the model will be adapted to the demanding Australian conditions, which will serve as a basis for other regions, including South America and Africa. A European premiere is even expected, as market analysts note increasing interest in robust vehicles with the appearance of real SUVs on the old continent as well.
