MG U9 EV electric ute launches in Australia ahead of expected NZ arrival

The fully electric MG U9 EV has gone on sale in Australia, giving Kiwi buyers a closer look at the ute ahead of its expected New Zealand arrival.

Australia is the first market to launch the battery-powered dual-cab, which went on sale on 29 October at A$78,990 before on-road costs. That is an Australian price, and should not be taken as an indication of what the ute will cost here.

MG New Zealand has previously indicated the U9 EV would arrive in 2026. An exact local launch date, pricing and grades are yet to be announced.

430km range and 3.5-tonne towing

The Australian-spec U9 EV uses two electric motors for all-wheel drive, with a combined output of 325kW and 700Nm. MG claims a 0–100km/h time of 5.8 seconds.

A 102.2kWh lithium iron phosphate battery delivers a claimed range of up to 430km under the WLTP test cycle. Real-world range will vary with driving conditions, speed, temperature and load; towing can reduce it further.

Braked towing capacity is rated at 3,500kg, while the unbraked figure is 750kg. Payload is 685kg, so buyers will need to consider the weight of passengers, equipment and accessories when planning a load. Towing capacity is also subject to vehicle and axle weight limits.

Charging and practicality

MG quotes a maximum DC charging rate of 115kW and says a 20–80 per cent charge can take around 42 minutes. AC charging is rated at up to 11kW. Actual charging times depend on the charger, battery temperature and conditions.

The ute also offers vehicle-to-load capability, with up to 6.6kW available through the external charging port. A 236-litre front storage compartment adds space beneath the bonnet, and MG says the rear tub can accommodate a standard pallet. Four-wheel electronic air suspension is fitted to the Australian model.

Inside, the Australian U9 EV has twin 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an eight-speaker JBL sound system. The driver’s seat is heated, ventilated and has a massage function.

What about New Zealand?

The U9 EV shares its underpinnings with the LDV eTerron 9. In July, LDV’s then-New Zealand distributor said it had decided not to offer the electric LDV locally.

For now, the key details for Kiwi buyers are still to come: MG has yet to announce local pricing, grades and an exact arrival date. Australian equipment and specifications may differ from the New Zealand model.