Hyundai Hypes a ‘Mind-Blowing’ Pick-up Truck: It Won’t Be a Kia Tasman or a GM Rebadge

The CEO of Hyundai Australia confirms an internal project with a body-on-frame chassis. The model will feature unique hybrid technology and high off-road potential.

Hyundai, despite its heritage with the Porter, is not globally known for pick-up trucks. This started to change with the Santa Cruz in 2021. Nevertheless, the Korean brand is ready to expand its workhorse offering. The company is working on a mid-size pick-up for North America. Now, a different model destined for Australia has been confirmed.

The Chassis Bet and the Hybrid Technology

This new Australia-bound model will be an internal development project. It will have no General Motors involvement. Likewise, it will use a traditional body-on-frame platform. Hyundai Australia CEO, Don Romano, has built high anticipation. In fact, Romano described the truck as “mind-blowing” and “great.” He ruled out it being a simple rebadge. Specifically, he stated that taking an existing platform is simply not acceptable for the brand.

Power will come from “a different type of hybrid.” However, it will not necessarily be a plug-in hybrid. This description suggests an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) setup. In this scheme, a gasoline engine functions solely as an electricity generator. The vehicle, therefore, behaves like an EV. EREV technology is designed for large, heavy vehicles. Consequently, it is ideally suited for a mid-size truck.

A Strong Rival for the Ford Ranger

Hyundai recently committed to developing EREV vehicles. The first model with this technology will arrive in 2027. Moreover, it will offer over 600 miles (966 kilometers) of combined range. It also promises EV-like performance and refinement. This technology will be key to standing out.

Competition is heating up in the midsize segment. Toyota just revealed the ninth-generation Hilux. In addition, a wave of Chinese pick-ups is challenging established players. Romano believes Hyundai can stand out with “technology that’s unique.” The goal is to secure a slice of the body-on-frame pick-up pie when the new truck arrives later this decade. His message is strong: “We’re late, but we’re gonna come on stronger.”