10 October, 2025
gwm-targets-top-five-ranking-in-australia-with-new-models

GWM Australia has set an ambitious goal to secure a position among the top five auto brands in the country by expanding its annual market share from 4.3 percent to 7.0 percent by 2027. Achieving this will involve launching at least seven new models in 2026, building on the seven vehicles the company has already introduced in 2025. The announcement was made by GWM International’s chief, Parker Shi, during the company’s 2025 Tech Day held in Melbourne.

To reach its target, GWM aims to translate a 7.0 percent market share into approximately 86,000 sales, based on projections for Australia’s new-vehicle market in 2024. Currently, GWM ranks 10th in the market, having sold 42,782 vehicles last year, which accounted for 3.5 percent of total sales. However, the company is on track to exceed its previous sales figures, having sold 39,343 vehicles in the first nine months of 2025.

New Models and Strategic Focus

During the event, John Kett, GWM Australia’s chief operating officer, detailed the upcoming models that will help drive the brand’s sales ambitions. He highlighted that plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) will be central to their strategy, alongside the introduction of its luxury sister brand, Wey, expected to launch in mid-2026.

“We obviously have Ora sitting in the small car segment. In the small SUV segment, we will certainly have an Ora small SUV next year,” Kett confirmed, referring to the recently revealed compact Ora 5 electric SUV. While specific details are limited, it boasts a 150kW electric motor. Additionally, GWM is considering a mid-size SUV from the Ora lineup, which could compete with the popular Tesla Model Y.

Kett also announced the introduction of the Jolion Max, a new version of GWM Haval’s smallest SUV. This model will feature both electric and plug-in hybrid options, enhancing the brand’s offerings in the competitive SUV market. The Jolion Max measures 4,780 mm in length, positioning it slightly larger than the top-selling Toyota RAV4.

Addressing Market Challenges and Regulatory Compliance

The company has ambitious plans for its mid-size SUV segment, which currently includes the H6 and H7. Kett confirmed that a new next-generation H7 will also be available as a PHEV. Furthermore, GWM plans to introduce diesel and plug-in hybrid options for larger SUVs in the near future.

Another significant development includes the announcement of the Wey luxury brand for GWM showrooms, with at least two models expected at launch. These are likely to include the Wey Blue Mountain SUV and the Wey 80 people-mover. GWM has also showcased the new Tank 700, a model that features more aggressive styling and a V6-based PHEV system, although its introduction to the Australian market remains uncertain.

Kett emphasized the importance of meeting the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), an emissions reduction program initiated by the Australian government. This program establishes a cap on the amount of CO2 emissions allowed for automakers, which will decrease annually until the current scheme concludes in 2029.

“We’ve got this incredible portfolio that if we can lift the adoption rates across those segments, we’ll win,” Kett stated, indicating confidence in GWM’s ability to grow its market presence over the coming years. As GWM prepares to launch a range of new models, the company is positioning itself to compete more effectively in the evolving automotive landscape in Australia.