The electric 2024 GMC Hummer EV pick-up is set to make its debut in Australia and New Zealand. The first right hand drive conversion has begun testing, paving the way for this iconic vehicle to enter new markets as part of a global export plan.
Interestingly, this initiative isn’t spearheaded by General Motors (GM) directly but by Global Conversions, a UAE based company renowned for converting left-hand drive vehicles to right hand drive. Earlier this month, they completed the first conversion of the Hummer EV pick up, setting the stage for broader testing and evaluation. Global Conversions has a robust portfolio, having previously worked on vehicles like the Ford Ranger-based Bronco SUV, Ram TRX ute, and the SUV version of the Hummer EV. Their conversions adhere to ISO 9001:2015 standards, ensuring top-notch quality.
Chairman Suresh Edirisinghe confirmed that the right hand drive Hummer EV pick up will be produced for export to over 77 countries, with Australia being a primary target. This development positions the Hummer EV as a key competitor in the electric ute market, which is currently led by the LDV eT60 dual-cab in local showrooms. Meanwhile, Tesla’s Cybertruck is on a promotional tour in Australia but lacks official sales plans.
Global Conversions plans to offer both the entry level two motor and the more powerful three-motor versions of the Hummer EV pick-up. Both models come standard with all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering.
- 2x Two-Motor Version: Priced from $US98,845 (approximately $AU149,879), it boasts 466kW of power and a 500km driving range. It also offers a substantial payload capacity of 5443kg.
- 3x Three-Motor Version: Starting at $US106,945 (around $AU162,062), this version delivers a whopping 745kW of power. It includes the ‘Watts to Freedom’ launch control system, enabling an impressive 0-100km/h sprint in just 3.5 seconds. The 3x version also features a 613km range when equipped with standard 22-inch wheels and a payload capacity of 3401-3856kg.
Both models benefit from an 800V architecture, facilitating rapid charging. The 3x model supports 350kW charging, allowing for 160km of range after just 10 minutes, while the 2x supports 300kW charging.
Despite the Hummer EV pick-up not being directly produced by GM for right-hand drive markets, GM remains committed to serving Australia. GM’s Ultium battery technology, which powers the Hummer EV, is also used in the Cadillac Lyriq SUV. Unlike the Hummer, the Cadillac Lyriq will be made in right-hand drive and is scheduled to hit Australian showrooms in late 2024.
GM’s dedication to right-hand drive vehicles is further evidenced by the Chevrolet Silverado, which is remanufactured locally for GMSV (General Motors Specialty Vehicles) showrooms by Melbourne based Walkinshaw Automotive Group. This model competes with other US built vehicles like the Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, and Ram pick ups, all of which have undergone similar right hand drive conversions for the Australian market.
