Australia's only hybrid mid-size ute axed as 2026 GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV takes reins as brand's only electrified Alpha workhorse, rivalling BYD Shark 6 and Ford Ranger PHEV

GWM will discontinue sales of the Cannon Alpha Hybrid ute just weeks after the launch of its new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant.

The move comes as the 2025 GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV is available on a limited-time offer from $57,490 drive-away for the base Lux variant until September 30, 2025.

With the top-spec Ultra PHEV variant available from $64,490 drive-away for the same period, the two plug-ins are both cheaper than or the same as the $64,490 DA standard hybrid variant.

The change in line-up isn’t a coincidence, according to GWM the move hasn’t come due to a lack in popularity for the hybrid, but rather due to wanting to offer relevant products to customers.

“With advancements in PHEV technology and a competitive price point, our goal is to offer a range that truly connects with customer needs,” a GWM Australia spokesperson told CarsGuide.

“The Cannon Alpha PHEV strikes an ideal balance between cutting-edge electrification and uncompromised 4x4 capability. 

“For those who prefer a more traditional option, the diesel variant remains an integral part of the Cannon Alpha lineup.”

For reference, the Cannon Alpha Hybrid made up around a third of Cannon Alpha sales — the rest being diesel — before the plug-in hybrid arrived. In the first half of 2025, GWM registered 1063 Cannon Alpha sales all-up.

The PHEV is also more powerful than the standard Hybrid — its 300kW tops the 255kW thanks to more powerful motors assisting the same 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine. The PHEV also boasts a claimed 115km electric driving range under (generous) NEDC testing thanks to its 37.11kWh battery.

The only other full-hybrid ute on sale in Australia is the larger American Toyota Tundra, the Cannon Alpha PHEV is one of three plug-in utes on sale in Australia alongside the popular BYD Shark 6 and the recently arrived Ford Ranger PHEV.

The Cannon Alpha and Shark sit closely on pricing, with the latter kicking off from $57,900 before on-roads, the Ford Ranger PHEV is much more expensive — it starts from $71,990 before on-road costs.