Cut-price new Chinese ute brand confirmed for Oz! Foton returns with a range of affordable vans and utes to tackle the GWM Cannon Ute, LDV T60 and BYD Shark plug-in hybrid ute

Chinese brand Foton is bringing a new range of trucks, utes and vans to Australia in the fourth quarter of 2024. Inchcape – the distributor behind Subaru, Peugeot and Citroen in Australia – will sell the vehicles in Australia.

The name Foton might ring a bell for some, they previously launched the Tunland ute in Australia back in 2012 before promptly ceasing operations in 2019.

During that time they jumped between three distributors: FAA Automotive, Ateco and then a factory-backed operation.

They return to Australia with what Inchcape says is an “exciting pipeline” of light commercial vehicle offerings. It will likely start with a mix of hybrid utes and internal combustion vans over the next 12 months, which will be followed by “electrified” variants further down the track.

Exact details on what models are expected to reach Australia are yet to be confirmed, although it’s likely the ute they are referring to is the next-generation Tunland, which is currently available overseas in the G and beefier V form.

Both utes come with a hybrid 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 120kW of power and 450Nm of torque. The engine is backed up by a 48V mild-hybrid system, and power is transferred to the engine via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Foton V9

Both the G and V appear to borrow design cues from full-sized American pick ups, with the V in particular reminiscent of the Ford F-150.

It’s spacious and boxy Ford-like design makes way for loads of room for additional features. In the Philippines, the V7 and V9 are available with an enormous 14.6-inch touch infotainment display, electric-adjustable seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and full leather upholstery. 

In terms of vans, the most likely contender to hit the Australian market looks like the View, a commercial van that is closely aligned in size and design to the Toyota HiAce.

Foton View

The View is currently available in China with a choice of a petrol or diesel engine, although it is unclear whether the View will be made available with a hybrid or electric drivetrain further down the track.

More details on the exact models that will be sold in Australia are expected to come as the brand gradually announces its official re-launch, though expect commercially-sized vehicles.

After all, Foton is the largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in China.