Launch dates firmed for LDV T60 and D90

LDV has finalised the launch date for two of its critically important models, the T60 ute and D90 SUV, with the former locked in for an October 1 launch and the latter to follow on November 15.

The T60 launch will be preceded by a Sydney media event on September 25 where Chinese media and LDV management will get a new look at the ute, signifying the importance of the Australian market to the automotive giant.

At launch, the T60 will be offered as five different dual-cab variants, which will eventually expand to encompass a single-cab body style, automatic and manual transmissions, pick-up and cab-chassis trays and two-and four-wheel drive variants.

Two trim levels – ‘worker’ and ‘lifestyle’ – will be offered, while the sole powertrain at launch will be a 110kW/360Nm 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, mechanically related to the unit powering the Holden Colorado range.

Pricing has not been released, however LDV importer Ateco Automotive has previously stated it would like to introduce the cheapest dual-cab 4x4 variant for around the $26,000 mark.

LDV media consultant Edward Rowe said the launch of the T60 marked the most significant moment in the brand’s Australian history since its launch in 2012.

“It’s hugely important. It repositions the brand in the range of vehicles it offers, it repositions it geographically,” he said.

“Up until now the brand has been a van brand, if you like, and the vast majority of vans are sold in metro areas. In preparation for the T60 we have been working to open dealers right across Australia and expand the dealer network considerably.

“And basically, we’re now going into the main market sector (in Australia), which is obviously utes.

“It really is a re-definition of the brand, where it operates, the customers it talks to – it is the biggest single change in the brand since it launched in Australia.”Mr Rowe said the brand was in the process of recruiting dealers, with LDV hoping to expand its dealer network into rural areas to increase the sales potential of the T60.

While not divulging any concrete sales targets, Mr Rowe said the introduction of the new models would lead to a “significant increase” in sales for the brand.

“We’re going into a much bigger sector of the market. We’re going into a sector with a vehicle that will be competitively priced and well-equipped and will meet the benchmarks of that market sector,” he said.

“It will be a significant increase in sales across the country, because obviously ute sales are significant in every geographical area in the country.”So far in 2017 LDV has sold a total of 1310 vehicles to the end of July.

Powertrains are yet to be confirmed for the D90 SUV, but possibilities include the 165kW/330Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit from the G10 people-mover, while the unit from the T60 could also find its way into the line-up.

More details on the D90, including pricing and specification, will be revealed closer to its release date.