China’s auto game just got real. GAC Group, one of the country’s top automakers, has unveiled its latest electric beast — the GAC Pickup 01, a truck that’s been turning heads since the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show. Its target? None other than Elon Musk’s Cybertruck.
This isn’t just a shiny new EV from the East. It’s a declaration: China wants a seat at the global pickup table, and they’re pulling out all the stops — high torque, smart tech, badass design, and a launch plan that stretches from Asia to the Americas.
China Unleashes Its Own Cybertruck
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Name | GAC Pickup 01 |
| Developer | GAC Group (China) |
| Global Launch | 2027 |
| Debut | 2025 Shanghai Auto Show |
| Design Style | Futuristic, mecha-inspired, angular body |
| Torque | 12,000 Nm |
| Technology Platform | GAIA (GAC Adaptive Intelligent Architecture) |
| Interior | Minimalist with steer-by-wire, flipable left/right drive |
| Battery Range | ~450–500 miles (est.) |
| Target Price | $50,000–$70,000 |
| Target Markets | Australia, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Chile |
| Official Site | www.gac.com.cn |
The GAC Pickup 01 is no gimmick. It’s a fully loaded, highly intelligent, competitively priced truck with worldwide appeal. While Tesla fights regulatory fires at home, GAC is quietly building a global army of fans—and fleets.
By 2027, don’t be surprised if a shiny angular truck rolls up beside you. And it’s not a Cybertruck.
A Short History: Cybertruck vs. The World
When Tesla announced the Cybertruck back in 2019, folks weren’t sure what to make of it. A polygon on wheels, some said. Others called it revolutionary. Either way, it sparked a trend.
Since then, manufacturers across the globe have tried to match its vision — but most never made it past concept sketches. GAC? They built one. And they’re shipping it globally.
What Is the GAC Pickup 01?
Think of it as Cybertruck’s rugged Chinese cousin. Built for off-roading, hauling, towing, camping, and showing off — all without guzzling a drop of gas.
Powered by GAIA, GAC’s ultra-smart tech platform, it offers:
- 12,000 Nm of torque (more than most sports cars).
- Intelligent suspension that reads the road 1,000 times per second.
- Steer-by-wire, meaning the wheel isn’t mechanically attached — it’s digital. You can even swap it between left-hand and right-hand drive depending on the country you’re in.
Design: Built to Look Bold
Inspiration
According to GAC designers, the Pickup 01’s look is inspired by “industrial art, tactical mechs, and digital mobility.” Imagine a Transformers meets Mad Max energy.
Exterior
- Stainless steel body (like Cybertruck)
- Armor-grade panels
- Digital wing mirrors and hidden handles
- Ground clearance that adjusts dynamically
Interior
- Panoramic infotainment screen
- Zero physical buttons
- Ambient lighting
- Room for 5 adults + modular cargo bed
“We wanted to build something that could cross the desert or drive the city in equal comfort,” said one GAC engineer at Shanghai Auto Show.
Global Ambitions: Where’s It Headed?
GAC knows its U.S. entry will face tariffs, politics, and regulations, so they’re targeting fast-growing EV markets:
- Australia (massive truck demand)
- Saudi Arabia (EV adoption incentives)
- Mexico & Chile (affordable EV expansion)
- Possibly Europe via local manufacturing partners
According to CarNewsChina, GAC exported 62,000 pickups in Q1 2025, up 31% YoY. They’ve got momentum.
Price: Cheaper Than the Cybertruck?
- GAC Pickup 01: Estimated $50,000–$70,000
- Tesla Cybertruck: $69,990 to $99,990+
- Rivian R1T: ~$73,000+
That’s a lot of torque for less cash.
Environmental Angle
GAC claims the Pickup 01 is built with 50% recyclable materials and optimized for low lifecycle carbon emissions.
- Carbon-neutral battery sourcing
- Wireless software upgrades to improve efficiency
- Bi-directional charging for home/grid backup
It’s not just cool — it’s conscious.
Who’s This Truck For?
1. The Off-Roader
Hitting the dunes in Saudi Arabia? The intelligent chassis + torque = traction for days.
2. The Contractor
Need towing, hauling, but don’t want gas bills? Hello 01.
3. The Techie
Love gadgets and futuristic dashboards? This is your spaceship.
4. The Eco-Driver
Wants to go electric, but doesn’t want to sacrifice rugged vibes? Pickup 01’s your jam.
GAC Pickup 01 vs. Tesla Cybertruck: Quick Stats
| Feature | GAC Pickup 01 | Tesla Cybertruck |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 12,000 Nm | ~10,000 Nm |
| Range | ~500 miles (est.) | 500 miles |
| Steer-by-Wire | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Swappable Drive Side | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Price | $50K–$70K | $69K+ |
| Global Launch | 2027 | U.S. 2024 |
Analyst Corner
“Tesla set the template. GAC is now customizing it for global needs at lower costs. If they can manage software and after-sales support, they’ll be a real threat.”
— Lisa Wu, Auto Tech Analyst, EV Insight Group
FAQs
Q: Can I buy the GAC Pickup 01 in the U.S.?
A: Not officially yet. GAC may enter via fleet sales or partnerships. U.S. tariffs and EV credits complicate direct sales.
Q: Will it work with U.S. charging stations?
A: Yes, likely CCS-standard. May even support Tesla chargers via adapters.
Q: Is it safe?
A: GAC is pursuing Euro NCAP and Latin NCAP certifications. U.S. ratings pending if it enters market.
Q: What if I want service or parts?
A: GAC plans to partner with local service centers in each region.
