MG Motor Australia has confirmed the local pricing and availability for its highly anticipated U9 EV ute, setting its starting price at $78,990 plus on-road costs. The electric workhorse is slated to arrive in Australian showrooms from Q4 2026, marking Australia as the first global market to receive the U9 EV.
This announcement positions the MG U9 EV as a significant entrant into Australia’s nascent but rapidly expanding electric ute segment, offering a compelling option for tradespeople, fleet operators, and private buyers seeking to electrify their utility vehicle. The market for electric utes in Australia is still in its early stages, with limited choices currently available or previously offered, such as the now-defunct LDV eT60 and the KGM Musso EV.
MG Motor Australia’s Marketing Manager, Dimitri Andreatidis, highlighted the U9 EV’s dual appeal, stating, “The MG U9 EV brings together the capability and utility people expect from a ute with the comfort and benefits of an electric powertrain.” He added that being the first market globally to launch the model underscores Australia’s importance to the brand.
MG U9 EV: Key Specifications and Performance
The MG U9 EV is built on the same body-on-frame platform as its turbo-diesel counterpart, the MG U9. For the Australian market, it will be offered exclusively in an all-wheel drive configuration.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Australian Price | From $78,990 + On-Road Costs |
| Availability | Q4 2026 |
| Powertrain | Dual Electric Motors, All-Wheel Drive |
| Max Power | 325kW |
| Max Torque | 700Nm |
| 0-100km/h | 5.8 seconds |
| Battery Capacity | 102.2kWh LFP |
| WLTP Driving Range | 430km |
| Braked Towing | 3,500kg |
| Payload | 685kg |
| DC Charging | Up to 115kW (20-80% in 42 mins) |
| V2L Capability | 6.6kW (external), 2.2kW (internal) |
| Frunk Capacity | 236 litres |
These specifications position the U9 EV as a robust contender, capable of handling demanding tasks while offering the environmental and operational benefits of an electric powertrain. The 3,500kg braked towing capacity is particularly noteworthy, matching the capabilities of many popular diesel utes in Australia.
Cost Comparison and Long-Term Savings
The starting price of $78,990 plus on-road costs for the MG U9 EV represents a premium of approximately $18,000 over the top-spec turbo-diesel U9, which is priced at $60,990 drive-away. While the upfront cost is higher, electric vehicles typically offer significant long-term savings through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. Australians are increasingly considering these lifetime cost benefits, with many realising they can save around $3,000 per year by switching to electric.
“When people realise they can save $3,000 per year driving electric, they don’t need convincing — they just buy one.” — Julie Delvecchio, CEO, Electric Vehicle Council
For businesses and individuals, the U9 EV’s 6.6kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability provides an additional layer of utility, allowing the vehicle to power external tools and appliances directly from its battery. This feature can be particularly valuable on worksites or during camping trips, effectively turning the ute into a mobile power bank. For further information on leveraging EV capabilities, readers can explore guides on Unlock $2,000+ Annual Savings: Your 2026 Guide to Using Your EV as a Home Battery (V2H/V2G).
Charging and Infrastructure Readiness
The U9 EV’s DC fast-charging capability, allowing a 20-80% charge in approximately 42 minutes at up to 115kW, addresses a key concern for ute owners who may rely on their vehicles for long distances or rapid turnaround. As Australia’s EV charging infrastructure continues to expand, supporting vehicles like the U9 EV will be crucial. Public charging networks are growing, with over 5,000 public EV charging sites across Australia as of early 2026, including a significant increase in ultra-fast chargers.
However, the rollout needs to keep pace with accelerating EV adoption. For those considering an electric ute for daily use, home charging remains the most convenient and cost-effective option. Resources like the Best Home EV Chargers for Australian Homes 2026: Top 5 Ranked & $1,200+ Installation Guide can assist prospective owners in setting up efficient home charging solutions. The broader shift towards electric vehicles in Australia is undeniable, with August 2026 marking the first time battery-electric vehicles outsold petrol cars nationally, accounting for 24.9% of new car sales.
This launch comes at a time of growing consumer interest and policy support for EVs, as detailed in our Best Electric Cars to Buy in Australia 2026: Your $19,990+ Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide. The MG U9 EV’s entry is poised to further accelerate the transition towards an electrified transport future in Australia, particularly within the traditionally fuel-heavy ute segment.