GWM LEADS THE WAY WITH SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST FULL HYBRID BAKKIE
The all-new GWM P500 is set to revolutionise the bakkie category with its impressive size and high specification levels South Africa’s most powerful hybrid bakkie GWM sets the benchmark for innovative features like 40:60 tailgate in bakkie segment
New GWM P500 2.0T 9HAT 4X4 Ultra Luxury
GEORGE, 13 August 2024 – In a first for South Africa, GWM has launched a full Petrol Electric Hybrid Bakkie. The all-new P-Series P500 Double-Cab bakkie is the first bakkie to have a 325-volt electric motor in South Africa, and the second most powerful double cab bakkie in the segment.
First revealed at the 2024 NAMPO trade show in May, the all-new GWM P500 is part of GWM’s consolidated brand portfolio. GWM P500 is the latest product in GWM’s rapidly expanding portfolio which now includes the Tank 300 and 500 SUVs, ORA fully electric models, H6 HEV and the new Jolion SUV PRO.
The new P500 bakkie will be offered with the option of a 2-litre turbocharged petrol self-charging hybrid, and an all-new 2.4L Turbo Diesel.
The range topping P500 HEV offers a powerful driving experience with an impressive 255kW and 648Nm of torque, complemented by a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4x4 capability across the range.
In addition to its unique powertrain, the P500 has an imposing presence measuring a staggering 5400mm nose to tail, and 1991mm across. The wheelbase is 3350mm, making for a practical go anywhere vehicle with room for five passengers and a substantial amount of cargo.
GWM’s innovative spirit is present in the load area as well, as seen with the introduction of exciting new features such as an electrically operated rear sliding window, a loadbox equipped with 28 anchor points, loadbox lamp, and a unique split rear tailgate with conventional drop down opening or 40:60 barndoor-style opening for easier loading.
“The P500 bakkie is arguably the most well equipped bakkie on the market right now. As a brand we take full advantage of China’s position as a leader in technological innovation in the automotive industry. With the P500, GWM also demonstrates the company’s innovative approach to design and engineering in what is usually a humdrum segment of the automotive sector. The P500 is a thrilling driver’s vehicle with rugged capabilities on and off-road. I am confident that with this product, GWM will challenge consumer perceptions of what a leisure bakkie can offer,” said Kevin Li, GWM South Africa’s newly appointed Managing Director.
GWM’s latest self-charging HEV engine complements the brand’s new larger vehicle design. This state-of-the-art powertrain delivers a remarkable smooth driving experience with usable power available in an instant. The smooth shifting 9 speed automatic transmission adds to the premium luxury feel of the P500 with barely perceptible shifts.
The P500 Hybrid’s intelligent hybrid drive system makes use of a 78kW (268Nm) electric motor, a 2-liter 180kW (380Nm) petrol engine for a combined output of 255kW of power and a class leading 648Nm of torque ensuring exceptional performance and efficiency. The powertrain combinations reflect GWM’s commitment in New Energy Vehicle leadership.
Combined fuel consumption is 9.8 l/100km, with CO2 Emissions of 225g/km.
The P500 is fully capable of tackling any adventure regardless of terrain or mission which is further enhanced by a towing capacity of up to 3500kg.
For the more traditional bakkie customer the P500 is also available in an all-new 2.4L Turbo Diesel with a power output of 135kW and 480Nm of torque with a claimed fuel consumption of 8.6l/100km.
This P500 is not just about luxury however, it is a fully equipped 4x4 vehicle with selectable low range gears, front and rear differential locks giving it the ability take on any terrain.
The P500 is hard to miss as it immediately draws attention with a bold front design featuring a large grille with square and distinctive LED headlights on either side.
The grille houses the front camera and sensors of the 360-view camera which are integrated into a large P-Series logo. Sensors for the intelligent drive system and anti-collision radar are positioned lower down on the front bumper which also houses the LED front fog lamps.
Two more cameras can be found on the large electronically adjusted, body coloured side view mirrors. These mirrors also have an auto fold function, auto adjust for reversing, blind spot alert, integrated turn signal, and demister.
Standard roof rails and fixed side steps finish off the adventure-ready-look of the P500.
A rear-view camera which is integrated into 360 degree view camera is positioned on the easy lift tailgate which has a unique split rear tailgate with conventional drop down opening or barn door style opening for easier loading.
LED taillights with smoked black glass, and a high mounted brake light add to the premium feel of the P500’s design.
In typical GWM fashion the P500 is also the first bakkie in South Africa with a panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide function
Spacious and Comfortable Cabin
The interior of the P500 offers nothing short of extensive comfort and luxury with attractive finishes and user-friendly high-tech advancements. The interior comes in Knight Black with appealing woodgrain-style trim on some panels.
The newly designed three-spoke leather covered steering wheel is the perfect size for spirited driving. The steering column is electronically adjustable with 4-way adjustment for rake and reach with a memory function. Steering mounted controls allow easy access to key vehicle features and information including the Head-Up Display, multi-media infotainment screen, and virtual instrument cluster.
A 12.3 inch or class leading 14.6 inch multi-media touchscreen display takes center stage in the cabin. The display has an intuitive, easy to use interface which allows access to key vehicle features, functions, and settings. Regularly used functions such as climate control, driving modes, and vehicle settings can be accessed through the multi-media touchscreen as well as via physical buttons on the center console, steering wheel, or the auxiliary instrument panel around the gearshift selector.
The P500 Ultra Luxury double cab bakkie has a standard 10-speaker Harman Infinity™ audio system for unsurpassed sound quality.
The wide and thickly cushioned seats are covered in high quality black Nappa leather for added comfort on long drives. Driver and front passenger seats are electrically adjusted with heating and cooling as well as an 8-option massage function.
The P500’s considerable exterior size results in a particularly spacious cabin, which allows for uncompromised space and comfort for rear seat occupants. Some of the high-end features available for rear seat passengers include electronically adjustable rear seats with adjustable headrests, heating and cooling, and welcome adjustment for easier ingress and egress.
The rear seat has independent split folding with a wireless charger and a center armrest.
The P500 is equipped with a soundproof windshield and windows for added comfort.
The GWM P500 offers the most advanced active and passive safety features in its class. Features that are normally only found in high-end luxury road vehicles include (but are not limited to) Automatic Emergency Braking which activates in critical situations to prevent collisions, Lane Keep Assist, ensuring the vehicle stays within its lane and a Driver Fatigue Monitoring System.
Typical GWM features like cross traffic alert, smart dodge (automatic emergency lane change), a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control are also present. In addition, seven airbags including a center airbag that helps to keep the front passenger and driver from colliding in the event of an accident.
The model lineup consists of three models:
the GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Luxury at R799 900,
the GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Super Luxury at R889 900 and
the GWM P500 2.0T HEV 9HAT 4X4 Ultra Luxury at R999 900.
The P500 range further adds peace of mind ownership to drivers with:
5 Year/ 75 000 km Service Plan
7 Year / 200,000 km Warranty,
5 Year unlimited km Body & Paint Warranty,
8 Year / 150,000km High Voltage Warranty (HEV)
7 Year, unlimited km Roadside Assist plan.
18x8J Alloy Wheel Rim & 265/60 R18 Tires
Auto Frameless Wipers
Manual Tilt & Telescopic Steering (4-Way) & Steering Wheel Straighten Reminder
Rear Door Privacy Glass & Soundproof Glass (Rear Door, Front/Rear Windshield)
Independent Split Rear Seat Folding
12.3” Colour Multi-touchscreen
360° Panoramic View Monitor
6 Speakers & Integrated Amplifier
Speed Sensing Volume Adjustment & Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Rear Cabin Lamp
Trailer Sway Mitigation & Adaptive Cruise + Intelligent Cruise Assist + Traffic Jam Assist + Intelligent Turning
Front and Rear Parking Sensor x4
Parking Distance Control & Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Rear Cross Brake System
Lane Change Assist
Front Collision Warning+ Auto Emergency Braking System + Pedestrian Safety Assist + Bicycle Safety Assist
Dual Front & Front Side & Curtain & Front Centre airbag
Engine Immobilizer
Indirect Driver Fatigue Monitor System
Keyless Entry & Auto Door Lock
Auto Collision Unlocking
Brake Assist & Uphill and Downhill Assist
Front And Rear Axle Electronically Controlled Differential Locks
Soundproof Glass (Rear Door, Front Windshield)
Electric Rear Sliding Window
Sun Visors With Mirror & Lamp
Electronic Antiglare Rearview Mirror (Inside)
Roof Trim Panel - Faux Suede
Driver Seat - Electric + Memory + 8 Way Adjustment + Welcome Function
Driver Seat - Electric 4-Way Adjustment Lumbar Support
Front Passenger Seat - Electric + 6 Way Adjustment & Side Seat Electric Adjustment
Front Seats - Ventilation & 8 Vibration setting Massage + Heating
Nappa Leather Seat
Driver Seat Welcome Function
14.6” Colour Multi-touchscreen
Side Cabin Lamp
Glove Box Lamp
Panoramic Sunroof
Front Wireless Charger
220V Power Outlet (120W)
Outside Rearview Mirrors: Memory + Auto Fold + Electric Adjustment + Turn Signal
Easy Lift Tailgate
Multifunction 40:60 Split Tailgate
Front Fog Lamp (With Steering Auto Directional)
Electronic Cooling Fan
Steering Wheel Heating
Storage Trays Under Rear Seat x2 (1kg)
Rear Seats - Ventilation + Heating
Rear Seat: Electric 2 Way Adjustment
Rear Seat Welcome Function
Multi-Colour Ambient Lamp-Rhythm
Foot Lamp
Rear Wireless Charger
Head-Up Display & Central Console Retro Classic Clock
10 Harman Infinity Speakers & Independent Harman Infinity Amplifier
Fully Automated Parking Assist
Adjustable Brake Energy Recovery
Front & Rear Parking Sensor x6
Outside Rearview Mirrors including a demister
First revealed at the 2024 NAMPO trade show in May, the all-new GWM P500 is part of GWM’s consolidated brand portfolio. GWM P500 is the latest product in GWM’s rapidly expanding portfolio which now includes the Tank 300 and 500 SUVs, ORA fully electric models, H6 HEV and the new Jolion SUV PRO.
The new P500 bakkie will be offered with the option of a 2-litre turbocharged petrol self-charging hybrid, and an all-new 2.4L Turbo Diesel.
The range topping P500 HEV offers a powerful driving experience with an impressive 255kW and 648Nm of torque, complemented by a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4x4 capability across the range.
In addition to its unique powertrain, the P500 has an imposing presence measuring a staggering 5400mm nose to tail, and 1991mm across. The wheelbase is 3350mm, making for a practical go anywhere vehicle with room for five passengers and a substantial amount of cargo.
GWM’s innovative spirit is present in the load area as well, as seen with the introduction of exciting new features such as an electrically operated rear sliding window, a loadbox equipped with 28 anchor points, loadbox lamp, and a unique split rear tailgate with conventional drop down opening or 40:60 barndoor-style opening for easier loading.
“The P500 bakkie is arguably the most well equipped bakkie on the market right now. As a brand we take full advantage of China’s position as a leader in technological innovation in the automotive industry. With the P500, GWM also demonstrates the company’s innovative approach to design and engineering in what is usually a humdrum segment of the automotive sector. The P500 is a thrilling driver’s vehicle with rugged capabilities on and off-road. I am confident that with this product, GWM will challenge consumer perceptions of what a leisure bakkie can offer,” said Kevin Li, GWM South Africa’s newly appointed Managing Director.
GWM’s latest self-charging HEV engine complements the brand’s new larger vehicle design. This state-of-the-art powertrain delivers a remarkable smooth driving experience with usable power available in an instant. The smooth shifting 9 speed automatic transmission adds to the premium luxury feel of the P500 with barely perceptible shifts.
The P500 Hybrid’s intelligent hybrid drive system makes use of a 78kW (268Nm) electric motor, a 2-liter 180kW (380Nm) petrol engine for a combined output of 255kW of power and a class leading 648Nm of torque ensuring exceptional performance and efficiency. The powertrain combinations reflect GWM’s commitment in New Energy Vehicle leadership.
Combined fuel consumption is 9.8 l/100km, with CO2 Emissions of 225g/km.
The P500 is fully capable of tackling any adventure regardless of terrain or mission which is further enhanced by a towing capacity of up to 3500kg.
For the more traditional bakkie customer the P500 is also available in an all-new 2.4L Turbo Diesel with a power output of 135kW and 480Nm of torque with a claimed fuel consumption of 8.6l/100km.
This P500 is not just about luxury however, it is a fully equipped 4x4 vehicle with selectable low range gears, front and rear differential locks giving it the ability take on any terrain.
The P500 is hard to miss as it immediately draws attention with a bold front design featuring a large grille with square and distinctive LED headlights on either side.
The grille houses the front camera and sensors of the 360-view camera which are integrated into a large P-Series logo. Sensors for the intelligent drive system and anti-collision radar are positioned lower down on the front bumper which also houses the LED front fog lamps.
Two more cameras can be found on the large electronically adjusted, body coloured side view mirrors. These mirrors also have an auto fold function, auto adjust for reversing, blind spot alert, integrated turn signal, and demister.
Standard roof rails and fixed side steps finish off the adventure-ready-look of the P500.
A rear-view camera which is integrated into 360 degree view camera is positioned on the easy lift tailgate which has a unique split rear tailgate with conventional drop down opening or barn door style opening for easier loading.
LED taillights with smoked black glass, and a high mounted brake light add to the premium feel of the P500’s design.
In typical GWM fashion the P500 is also the first bakkie in South Africa with a panoramic sunroof with tilt and slide function
Spacious and Comfortable Cabin
The interior of the P500 offers nothing short of extensive comfort and luxury with attractive finishes and user-friendly high-tech advancements. The interior comes in Knight Black with appealing woodgrain-style trim on some panels.
The newly designed three-spoke leather covered steering wheel is the perfect size for spirited driving. The steering column is electronically adjustable with 4-way adjustment for rake and reach with a memory function. Steering mounted controls allow easy access to key vehicle features and information including the Head-Up Display, multi-media infotainment screen, and virtual instrument cluster.
A 12.3 inch or class leading 14.6 inch multi-media touchscreen display takes center stage in the cabin. The display has an intuitive, easy to use interface which allows access to key vehicle features, functions, and settings. Regularly used functions such as climate control, driving modes, and vehicle settings can be accessed through the multi-media touchscreen as well as via physical buttons on the center console, steering wheel, or the auxiliary instrument panel around the gearshift selector.
The P500 Ultra Luxury double cab bakkie has a standard 10-speaker Harman Infinity™ audio system for unsurpassed sound quality.
The wide and thickly cushioned seats are covered in high quality black Nappa leather for added comfort on long drives. Driver and front passenger seats are electrically adjusted with heating and cooling as well as an 8-option massage function.
The P500’s considerable exterior size results in a particularly spacious cabin, which allows for uncompromised space and comfort for rear seat occupants. Some of the high-end features available for rear seat passengers include electronically adjustable rear seats with adjustable headrests, heating and cooling, and welcome adjustment for easier ingress and egress.
The rear seat has independent split folding with a wireless charger and a center armrest.
The P500 is equipped with a soundproof windshield and windows for added comfort.
The GWM P500 offers the most advanced active and passive safety features in its class. Features that are normally only found in high-end luxury road vehicles include (but are not limited to) Automatic Emergency Braking which activates in critical situations to prevent collisions, Lane Keep Assist, ensuring the vehicle stays within its lane and a Driver Fatigue Monitoring System.
Typical GWM features like cross traffic alert, smart dodge (automatic emergency lane change), a 360-degree camera system and adaptive cruise control are also present. In addition, seven airbags including a center airbag that helps to keep the front passenger and driver from colliding in the event of an accident.
The model lineup consists of three models:
the GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Luxury at R799 900,
the GWM P500 2.4T 9AT 4X4 Super Luxury at R889 900 and
the GWM P500 2.0T HEV 9HAT 4X4 Ultra Luxury at R999 900.
The P500 range further adds peace of mind ownership to drivers with:
5 Year/ 75 000 km Service Plan
7 Year / 200,000 km Warranty,
5 Year unlimited km Body & Paint Warranty,
8 Year / 150,000km High Voltage Warranty (HEV)
7 Year, unlimited km Roadside Assist plan.
18x8J Alloy Wheel Rim & 265/60 R18 Tires
Auto Frameless Wipers
Manual Tilt & Telescopic Steering (4-Way) & Steering Wheel Straighten Reminder
Rear Door Privacy Glass & Soundproof Glass (Rear Door, Front/Rear Windshield)
Independent Split Rear Seat Folding
12.3” Colour Multi-touchscreen
360° Panoramic View Monitor
6 Speakers & Integrated Amplifier
Speed Sensing Volume Adjustment & Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Rear Cabin Lamp
Trailer Sway Mitigation & Adaptive Cruise + Intelligent Cruise Assist + Traffic Jam Assist + Intelligent Turning
Front and Rear Parking Sensor x4
Parking Distance Control & Rear Cross Traffic Alert & Rear Cross Brake System
Lane Change Assist
Front Collision Warning+ Auto Emergency Braking System + Pedestrian Safety Assist + Bicycle Safety Assist
Dual Front & Front Side & Curtain & Front Centre airbag
Engine Immobilizer
Indirect Driver Fatigue Monitor System
Keyless Entry & Auto Door Lock
Auto Collision Unlocking
Brake Assist & Uphill and Downhill Assist
Front And Rear Axle Electronically Controlled Differential Locks
Soundproof Glass (Rear Door, Front Windshield)
Electric Rear Sliding Window
Sun Visors With Mirror & Lamp
Electronic Antiglare Rearview Mirror (Inside)
Roof Trim Panel - Faux Suede
Driver Seat - Electric + Memory + 8 Way Adjustment + Welcome Function
Driver Seat - Electric 4-Way Adjustment Lumbar Support
Front Passenger Seat - Electric + 6 Way Adjustment & Side Seat Electric Adjustment
Front Seats - Ventilation & 8 Vibration setting Massage + Heating
Nappa Leather Seat
Driver Seat Welcome Function
14.6” Colour Multi-touchscreen
Side Cabin Lamp
Glove Box Lamp
Panoramic Sunroof
Front Wireless Charger
220V Power Outlet (120W)
Outside Rearview Mirrors: Memory + Auto Fold + Electric Adjustment + Turn Signal
Easy Lift Tailgate
Multifunction 40:60 Split Tailgate
Front Fog Lamp (With Steering Auto Directional)
Electronic Cooling Fan
Steering Wheel Heating
Storage Trays Under Rear Seat x2 (1kg)
Rear Seats - Ventilation + Heating
Rear Seat: Electric 2 Way Adjustment
Rear Seat Welcome Function
Multi-Colour Ambient Lamp-Rhythm
Foot Lamp
Rear Wireless Charger
Head-Up Display & Central Console Retro Classic Clock
10 Harman Infinity Speakers & Independent Harman Infinity Amplifier
Fully Automated Parking Assist
Adjustable Brake Energy Recovery
Front & Rear Parking Sensor x6
Outside Rearview Mirrors including a demister
Front Wireless Charger
Driver Seat - Electric 4-Way Adjustment Lumbar Support