JAC Hunter PHEV: INSANE Engineering for $50K

Summary

The video is a technical review of the JAC Hunter PHEV, focusing on how its plug-in-hybrid drivetrain and packaging differ from those of other Chinese plug-in-hybrid pickups. The reviewer presents it as a strong-value proposition at about $55,000, with 360 kW and 1,010 Nm. However, he notes that a low price and impressive specifications do not mean every detail is equally polished.

Drivetrain and engineering

• The Hunter combines a longitudinally mounted 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, and a front electric motor referred to as a P2.5 motor. The engine can drive the front wheels when the control system calls for it; the motor can also help start the engine or act as a generator.
• A separate electric motor drives the rear axle. Because there is no conventional propeller shaft running from front to rear, the all-wheel-drive system relies on software coordinating the front powertrain and rear motor.
• The shaft-free layout frees space for the battery and fuel tank, but makes system integration and calibration more complex. The reviewer says the transition between front and rear drive is smooth in testing.
• The reviewer contrasts this setup with the BYD Shark 6, which does not have a multi-speed automatic transmission and therefore has different conditions for mechanically engaging its engine. The Cannon Alpha and Chery Stockman, by contrast, are described as having more conventional engine, transmission and transfer-case arrangements, with front and rear propeller shafts.
• The Hunter’s electric motors provide strong low-speed torque, but that is not the same as a mechanical low-range gear reduction. Buyers prioritising serious low-speed off-roading should consider this distinction, as well as the compromises of alternative layouts.

Under-bonnet and underbody findings

• The vehicle has separate cooling circuits for the petrol engine and electrified components, with thermostatic control regulating coolant flow.
• The reviewer praises the engine-bay finish compared with the T9 he had previously inspected, particularly the wiring protection and heat insulation. He also points to an exhaust after-treatment assembly described in the subtitles as including a three-way catalytic converter and a particulate filter.
• The battery, stated to be roughly 32 kWh, sits between the axles in a steel enclosure. The reviewer says its position and surrounding structure provide substantial protection, while acknowledging that battery exposure can be a concern for off-road use.
• The rear electric motor is mounted transversely and uses gearing to send power to the rear differential. On the Hunter X, the reviewer identifies electronically controlled front and rear differential locks.
• The underbody inspection reveals substantial battery mounting rails and steel protection plates, along with welds that appear improved. The front has symmetrical towing points. The reviewer does not identify dedicated rear towing points and suggests the towbar may provide an alternative.
• The lack of a long driveshaft is a packaging advantage, making room for the battery and a transverse fuel tank. The unusual front transmission layout, however, requires additional gearing to redirect power to the front differential.

Tray, usability and loaded driving

• Practical features include tailgate central locking, a cargo light integrated into the rear brake-light area, and steps to help access the tray.
• The tray has a powder-coated surface and can accommodate a pallet between the wheel arches. The reviewer demonstrates it with about 500 kg of sand and notes that passengers, accessories and equipment can quickly add up to a heavy load.
• The reviewer criticises some tray details: the tailgate is not especially refined to open or close, and the torsion-spring arrangement and rubbing finish around the tray edge feel less well resolved than the vehicle’s overall value proposition.
• A polymer auxiliary element inside the rear coil springs progressively increases support as the load rises. After driving with approximately half a tonne aboard, the reviewer says the suspension controlled the load well and the vehicle remained predictable. He describes its dynamics as below the Ford Ranger benchmark but considerably better than he expected for the price.
• The reviewer also notes rear disc brakes, which he presents as a positive feature compared with some competing pickups.

Overall assessment and review elements

The video functions as a detailed engineering guide and vehicle review, examining the engine bay, tray features, the pickup’s behaviour under a substantial load, and its underbody on a hoist.

The main takeaway is that PHEV pickups vary significantly beneath the shared label. The Hunter’s electric rear drive and shaft-free layout provide useful packaging advantages, but buyers seeking a conventional mechanical low range may prefer a different design. The reviewer considers the Hunter’s shortcomings relatively minor given its power and price.

Main speakers and sources

• John Cadogan, the Auto Expert presenter and reviewer, provides the technical analysis and driving impressions.
• Matt McCrory, identified as a JAC technical specialist, explains the cooling-system reservoirs.
• Michael Barber, a suspension-tuning expert, is cited in the discussion of the rear suspension.