World’s first range-extended electric pickup set for South African launch

A range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), sometimes called an E-REV is an electric car or truck that primarily runs on electricity but includes a small internal combustion engine (usually petrol or diesel) that acts as a generator to recharge the battery when it runs low.

Unlike traditional hybrids, where the engine directly powers the wheels, in a range-extended EV the engine’s only role is to extend the driving range by producing electricity

The launch highlights South Africa’s expanding role as Africa’s key vehicle manufacturing hub, as Indian and Chinese automakers continue to invest heavily in local assembly and electric mobility projects.

The arrival of the new REEV pickup comes amid a wave of investment by Chinese and Indian automakers who are increasingly viewing South Africa as their continental base for electric and hybrid vehicle production.

Brands such as BAIC, Tata, Mahindra, and GWM have expanded local assembly lines, leveraging South Africa’s industrial infrastructure, skilled labour, and proximity to regional markets.

As Africa’s largest vehicle manufacturing hub, South Africa produces over 500,000 vehicles annually, accounting for more than 80% of the continent’s total output. With supportive government policies and a maturing EV ecosystem, the country is positioning itself as a springboard for next-generation automotive technology.

Across Africa, countries such as Kenya, Egypt, and Morocco are also joining the EV race, establishing assembly plants and charging infrastructure as part of a continent-wide move away from fossil fuels.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is expected to play a crucial role in linking supply chains for batteries and electric components.

The Hunter REEV, developed by Changan South Africa, merges the traditional strength of a pickup with the innovation of electric mobility. While pricing remains undisclosed, the company said the launch represents a “reimagining of the pickup for the future” as per Business Tech.

The model combines a 31.2kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol generator, offering 145km of pure-electric driving and up to 1,000km total range once the generator activates.

Visually, the Hunter REEV features a sleek, futuristic design with LED headlamps, a redesigned grille, and 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it departs from the utilitarian interiors common in pickups, offering wraparound digital displays, wireless charging, Wi-Fi connectivity, and over-the-air software updates.

“This vehicle shows that electric and hybrid technology can also serve the toughest, hardest-working vehicles on South African roads,” Changan said.

All models will include a five-year or 150,000km warranty, with introductory pricing expected to be announced at launch.