China’s automakers are no longer the underdogs. Over the last decade, they’ve moved beyond budget cars and are now building some of the best Chinese pickup trucks that combine modern design, serious capability, and aggressive pricing.
These trucks are cheaper, smarter, and increasingly ready for export — and they’re starting to rattle the global pickup market.
1. Great Wall Cannon — The Truck That Started It All
Why it matters: The Great Wall Cannon (aka Pao) is the pickup that put Chinese trucks on the global map. It blends capability with comfort at a price few Western rivals can match.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: 2.0L turbo (190 hp) with optional diesel
- Features: 9-inch infotainment, 360° camera, adaptive cruise, lane-keeping assist
- Price (China): ~$20,000
2. SAIC Maxus T90 EV — China’s First All-Electric Pickup
Why it matters: The Maxus T90 EV is one of the first mass-produced all-electric pickups out of China and signals the country's commitment to electrifying the utility segment.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Power: 177 hp
- Battery: 88.5 kWh
- Range: Up to 330 km
- Notable: Dual 10-inch screens, export-ready for Europe and South America
3. JAC Hunter — The Off-Road Warrior
Why it matters: The JAC Hunter is China’s answer to high-performance off-road pickups. It’s serious about capability — but priced much lower than comparable models from the US.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: 2.0L turbo-diesel
- Torque: ~450 Nm
- Features: Low-range 4WD, locking rear differential, skid plates
4. Dongfeng Rich 6 EV — The Workhorse
Why it matters: Combining a proven platform (Nissan Navara) with electric power, the Rich 6 EV is designed for fleets and heavy-duty urban use where emissions and running costs matter.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Power: ~160 hp (electric)
- Battery: 67 kWh
- Range: ~400 km
- Use cases: Fleets, logistics, municipal vehicles
5. ZX Auto Terralord — The Global Underdog
Why it matters: Terralord is built for durability and affordability — popular in Africa, the Middle East, and South America for its simple, robust design.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: 2.5L turbo-diesel
- Torque: ~420 Nm
- Towing: Up to 3 tons
6. BYD Shark — The Hybrid Game-Changer
Why it matters: BYD — a global EV leader — brings hybrid tech and range-extending efficiency to the pickup segment. The Shark mixes electric driving with long-distance range.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Powertrain: 1.5L turbo + electric motors (plug-in hybrid)
- Combined output: ~430 hp
- Combined range: Up to 1,000 km (hybrid mode)
7. Foton Tunland G9 — The Premium Workhorse
Why it matters: The Tunland G9 blends heavy-duty capability with a surprisingly refined cabin — proof that functional pickups can still be comfortable.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: Cummins 2.0L turbo-diesel
- Torque: ~390 Nm
- Features: Leather seating, large touchscreen, driver assists
8. Changan Hunter — The Budget Gladiator
Why it matters: Developed with Stellantis ties, the Changan Hunter delivers European-influenced engineering at a lower price point — attractive to emerging markets.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: 1.9L turbo-diesel
- Transmission: Manual or automatic
- Drive: Full-time 4WD
9. Jiangling Yuhu 9 — The Stylish Workhorse
Why it matters: With engineering links to Ford, the JMC Yuhu 9 offers a refined cabin and proven powertrain tech in a package that looks and feels premium.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Engine: 2.0L turbocharged (210 hp)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Features: Ventilated leather seats, digital cluster
10. Kandi K32 — The Compact Electric Pickup
Why it matters: The Kandi K32 proves size isn’t everything. As an affordable, compact electric pickup, it’s ideal for light-duty work, farms, and industrial sites.
Key Specs & Highlights
- Type: All-electric compact pickup
- Range: ~200 km
- Drive: 4WD (light utility)
- Price: ~$15,000
The Bottom Line
From electric workhorses to hybrid powerhouses and rugged diesels, China’s pickup market has matured rapidly. These trucks are no longer just cheap alternatives — they’re credible competitors with real export potential. If Western automakers don’t adapt, the global pickup landscape could look very different within a few years.
Which of these would you drive? Tell us in the comments below!
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