JAC has announced that it is producing a limited-edition version of the T9 Hunter 4×4 to celebrate the brand’s recent achievements in South Africa.
Earlier this year, the T9 set a national record when it drove 4,084km in 24 hours, working out to an average speed of 170km/h.
This makes the T9 the new record holder for the 24-hour endurance challenge, which was previously held by Isuzu.
“To celebrate this record-breaking victory, we are producing 24 uniquely branded T9 Hunters in 4×4 configuration, featuring enhanced performance and exclusive comfort features,” says Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa.
“Each unit will be individually numbered from one to 24 to commemorate this remarkable milestone in our journey.”
The new Hunter is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine, which generates 144kW and 487Nm.
This is connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which transfers power down to all four wheels.
Unfortunately, JAC has not yet disclosed the pricing nor the spec sheet for the limited-edition bakkie, as these details will be revealed closer to the vehicle’s launch.
However, the brand did state that motorists can look forward to several new additions in the second half of 2025.
The Chinese carmaker confirmed that the long-awaited T9 plug-in hybrid will finally make its debut in July, and that the T6 will receive a new single cab variant.
It also stated that the T8 and X200 series will be expanded with new engine options in response to customer demand.
Setting a record
The previous 24-hour commercial vehicle endurance challenge record was set by Isuzu back in 2010.
Before then, the original record was held by Toyota, which set the benchmark in 2003 when a Hilux managed to drive 3,818km at an average speed of 159.1km/h.
Seven years later, Isuzu would dethrone its Japanese rival using a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel KB, which travelled 4,063km at an average rate of 169.3km/h.
Karl-Heinz Göbel, CEO of JAC Motors South Africa, revealed that the company was keen to tackle Isuzu’s record for a long time.
However, this would be no easy task, as Isuzu’s run was meticulously calculated with precision pit stops, high-pressure fuel systems, and a practised crew.
“When the 24-hour endurance challenge idea was pitched, we immediately knew it was a great opportunity to showcase the outstanding reliability and durability of our products,” said Karl.
“I wasn’t always confident we would break the record, especially when compared to our video production team and helpers taking over five minutes per pit stop.”
The T9 selected for the job featured a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel block with 125kW and 410Nm, allowing it to maintain a high speed for hours on end.
The attempt was also sponsored by Continental and Engen, who supplied the tyres, fuel, and lubricants for the vehicle, respectively.
By the time the challenge was over, the Hunter completed 1,350 laps of the Gerotek track in 24 hours.
It also managed an average fuel consumption of 16.5l/100km, which may sound atrocious until you realize it was consistently travelling at 170km/h for an entire day.
In addition to the new limited-edition T9, the company also announced that it would expand the bakkie’s warranty from 100,000km to 200,000km over five years to celebrate its achievement.
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