Australia’s newest electric ute isn’t made for you to buy: The 2024 Tembo Tusker is a rebadged Chinese ute coming to challenge the LDV eT60 and converted Toyota HiLux EVs for mining supremacy

AutoExec Summary
The Tembo Tusker is the newest addition to Australia’s competitive ute market, focusing on the mining sector rather than small businesses and private buyers, unlike the anticipated BYD Shark, Kia Tasman, and JAC T60. Tembo, known for electric vehicle conversions, launched in Australia in 2018 and has received 50 orders for the Tusker, planning to bring 200 to Australia and New Zealand. With a starting price of $74,000, the Tusker claims to be the best value electric ute in Australia. It offers a 65kWh battery, 330km range, 1000kg payload, and 3-tonne towing capacity. The more luxurious Tusker-D provides a larger battery pack and four-wheel drive, built in China and resembling the Dayun Auto pick-up D5. Delivery is expected by 2026, potentially overshadowing the brand’s electric Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series project.

Brands mentioned: BYD, Kia, JAC, Toyota, LDV, Dayun