Words: Andrew Sluys
Published 8 May 2026
Despite offering a plethora of hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles in New Zealand, GWM currently sells just one battery electric vehicle (BEV) in New Zealand, but that’s soon set to change.
Currently, the Ora hatch is the only BEV offered by the brand locally, which is soon to be replaced by the Ora 5.
At a recent GWM launch, we had the opportunity to sit down with members of GWM ANZ’s executive team, who announced this new EV for New Zealand.
When asked whether or not one EV is enough for New Zealand, John Kett, Chief Operating Officer for GWM ANZ said the Ora 5 isn’t the only EV on its way.
“We’re launching another EV later this year. You’ll see it in the Haval [range],” Kett explained.
Despite making this announcement, no details as to what this new EV will look like were shared with the media group.
At the recent Beijing Auto Show, details of GWM’s 2026 product rollout were shared, which included the new Jolion Max SUV.
Set to arrive “later in 2026”, this SUV will be available with hybrid and BEV powertrain options.
With this in mind, it’s highly likely that the Jolion Max was the upcoming BEV John Kett mentioned during the interview.
Though images of this Jolion Max exist online, details of this vehicle are harder to source than you’d expect.
Size wise, it sits between the Jolion and the H6, at 4590mm long, with a 2710mm wheelbase.
It’s likely the electric powertrain will carry over from the Ora 5, which features a 58.3kWh battery, and a 150kW/375Nm electric motor.
Aside from this Jolion Max, which has been all-but confirmed for the local market, there’s also a chance the updated Haval H6 lands with electric power in the near future.
Dubbed the Xialong Max in China, this SUV was recently updated again with very electric-esque front end styling, meaning a BEV version is likely in the works.
