The company is exploring a new energy powertrain for the ute with no plans for pure ICE models in Australia, potentially leveraging a future 745kW-plus tri-motor electric architecture from Geely’s New Energy Off-Road Vehicle platform, and could include plug-in hybrid or fully electric variants.

A dual-cab 4x4 ute targeting rivals like Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux is in development, with a launch window anticipated within two years in the Australian market.

Prototype specs feature the Golden Short Blade Battery, a full-power AI digital chassis with capabilities such as crab walking and autonomous drifting, plus vehicle-mounted sonar and water radar enabling water flotation up to two hours and wading depths over 800mm.

The design may use a rugged live rear axle for load carrying, while an independent suspension is shown for the rolling chassis at the Beijing motor show.

Satellite connectivity and the Geely Global Safety Center will support advanced safety and remote connectivity, though it’s not yet clear which features will reach production.

Geely’s plug-less hybrid tech is highlighted as potentially delivering fuel efficiency superior to Toyota’s current figures.

Possible powertrains include a Toyota-style hybrid setup with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 hybrid developed by Horse, delivering up to about 400 kW and 700 Nm with electric motors.

Auto China 2026 showcased a high-performance Galaxy Cruiser prototype with a tri-motor system exceeding 1,000hp and 0-100 km/h in the low four-second range, featuring a rear differential lock and rapid motor engagement.

The ute is expected to be a rugged off-road vehicle distinct from the overseas car-derived Riddara ute.

Geely remains open to other propulsion options for the next generation, including diesel plug-in hybrids, depending on study outcomes.

The Galaxy Cruiser uses a new body-on-frame platform powered by Geely AI, delivering AI-driven torque distribution, all-terrain drive modes, vehicle recovery, active body posture adjustment, and a balance between extreme off-road capability and urban comfort with a compact battery/ECU footprint.

Geely Australia is poised to launch a new generation of off-road UTEs in 2027 starting with the Galaxy Cruiser, a rugged box-style 4WD that will also offer a plug-in hybrid option.