Name chosen for plug-in ute
Chery has confirmed Stockman as the name of its new diesel plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute, which is set to launch in New Zealand in the first quarter of 2027.
The brand held a competition in Australia to name the vehicle and it attracted more than 20,000 submissions. A shortlist of eight titles was drawn up and put to a public vote earlier this year.
The winning name came from Victoria’s Steve Kodikara, who will drive away with the first Stockman ute when it lands in Australia this year.
Originally codenamed KP31, the ute will feature a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine that offers class-leading thermal efficiency rated at 47 per cent.
It is also 10 per cent more fuel-efficient than the average diesel powertrain, and the vehicle provides a 1000kg payload and 3.5-tonne towing capacity.
Noise, vibration and harshness levels are a major focus of the Stockman and the model provides a 30 per cent vibration reduction compared with the average diesel powertrain.
Lucas Harris, chief operating officer at Chery Australia and New Zealand, says: “We’re incredibly excited to confirm our ute will be coming to the New Zealand market.
“It’s riveting to be the first brand to offer a diesel PHEV in the dual-cab ute class, which will be our key point of difference compared to the competition”.
Other features include a snorkel, 285/70 R17 all-terrain tyres, and a tub rack with 4x4 recovery tracks.
The concept version measures 5610mm long, 1920mm wide and 1925mm tall, but the production ute will be slightly shorter with a length of 5450mm.
A petrol PHEV powertrain is due to join the line-up later in 2027.
Harris adds the response to the naming competition exceeded all expectations.
“Stockman stood out because it captured something uniquely Australian while reflecting the capability, reliability and innovation behind our upcoming ute,” he says.
“Steve’s submission brought the name to life through a compelling story, connecting Australia’s heritage with the next generation of ute technology.”
Stockman was chosen over other names, including Outrider, Orca, Ironbark, Bushwalker, Longreach, Ridgeback, Terra and Mate, after receiving more than 25 per cent of votes cast by more than 12,000 Australians.
