GWM to launch seven new SUVs, EVs in 18-month plan
drive.com.au, 8 Oct '25
GWM Australia is preparing to expand its vehicle portfolio with a range of new SUVs and electrified models as part of its strategy to increase market share in the Australian automotive sector.
A revamped Haval Jolion small SUV line-up and the introduction of the Wey brand will form part of a series of at least seven new models planned for GWM Australia showrooms over the next 18 months.
According to plans disclosed by GWM Australia Chief Operating Officer John Kett to local media, at least seven new models are expected to reach showrooms next year, with a focus on plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains.
This is part of the company's medium-term strategy to achieve a 7% share of new vehicle sales in Australia, equivalent to approximately 85,000 annual deliveries, targeting a Top Five market position, up from seventh currently.
Among the expected launches is the Haval Jolion Max, a new small SUV positioned above the current Haval Jolion range, which includes the boxy Jolion and the Jolion Pro variants, offering plug-in hybrid and electric power options.
The Haval Jolion Max represents the showroom version of a small GWM SUV previewed to Australian journalists in China earlier this year, previously identified as the 'Haval New SUV' and sold in China under the Xiaolong name.
Limited details have been released regarding the vehicle beyond its powertrain options and its designation, which suggests a price point above the current AUD 37,990 (US$ 25,000) drive-away Haval Jolion Ultra Hybrid based on the Pro body style.
The Jolion Max will be offered alongside a small SUV from the Ora electric vehicle brand, revealed last month in China as the Ora 5, providing GWM with two models competing against the BYD Atto 3 and Kia EV3 SUVs.
The Ora 5 is slightly smaller, while the Haval Jolion Max is closer in size to the Geely EX5, positioning it in the mid-size SUV segment. The two models are expected to differ in exterior and interior design.
In the mid-size SUV category, the Haval H7 SUV, launched this year in a single hybrid grade, will receive plug-in hybrid power in its next generation, although the timeline for its introduction has not been confirmed.
GWM is also evaluating an electric Ora mid-size SUV intended to compete with the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7.
The Wey brand, confirmed for 2026, is a prestige marque targeting competitors such as Lexus and BYD's Denza division. Specific model launches for Wey have not been detailed, although a selection of vehicles is expected, including a people mover known as the Wey G9 in other right-hand-drive markets.
Wey also offers a large six-seat plug-in hybrid SUV in China under the Blue Mountain name, which GWM Australia executives have expressed interest in introducing.
The expansion of new models will result in one of the broadest line-ups of any Chinese brand in Australia, covering petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles.
GWM Australia aims to maintain coverage across all segments compliant with NVES emissions rules and to improve market performance in hybrid and electric vehicle categories.