Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 13 March 2026
GWM is celebrating the fact that five different models from its line up have made it up one of Australia’s toughest off-road climbs.
The brand recently returned to Beer O’Clock Hill — a notoriously difficult ascent for four-wheel-drives — with all five vehicles attempting the climb reaching the summit.
Among the vehicles tackling the climb this time were the plug-in hybrid versions of the GWM Tank 300 Hi4‑T PHEV and GWM Tank 500 Hi4‑T PHEV. They joined previously successful attempts from the GWM Cannon XSR, GWM Cannon Alpha Hi4‑T PHEV and the GWM Tank 300 Diesel.
Read more – GWM announces New Zealand pricing for plug-in hybrid Tank 300
Read more – 2025 GWM Tank 500 Ultra PHEV Review
GWM says that the performance of the Tank 300 Hi4-T PHEV was notable as it completed the climb in full production specification while running on standard highway tyres rather than aggressive all-terrain rubber.
According to GWM, every vehicle used for the challenge was completely standard, with no mechanical modifications, calibration changes or software upgrades.
Three of the five vehicles that completed the climb were powered by the Hi4-T electrified system, while the remaining two relied on GWM’s 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine.
Steve Maciver, Head of Marketing and Communications at GWM Australia and New Zealand, said the result highlights how electrified vehicles can still deliver serious off-road performance.
“Beer O’Clock Hill is becoming one of the toughest proving grounds for any off-road vehicle in Australia. Having no less than five vehicles across the range conquering Beer O’Clock Hill is something we are incredibly proud of, but certainly not surprised,” said Mr Maciver.
“The latest GWM Tank 300 Hi4-T PHEV climbing the hill on highway tyres speaks volumes about the engineering behind the Hi4-T system. This is electrification is designed for real off-road performance, delivering instant torque, precise traction and relentless climbing ability.
“New Energy Vehicles should enhance capability, not limit it, and what we have demonstrated is that GWM’s technology delivers both efficiency and serious off-road performance, without compromise.”
GWM New Zealand Country Manager Cameron Thomas said the result also highlights the potential of the technology for Kiwi buyers.
“These milestones show that GWM vehicles aren’t just built to perform, they’re built to excel in the dynamic and challenging conditions that make New Zealand driving unique. We’re ready for every adventure our customers take on,” he said.
With electrified models playing an increasing role in the brand’s lineup, GWM says the Beer O’Clock Hill result demonstrates that its transition to new-energy vehicles is designed to add capability rather than reduce it.
