Changan has brought something truly weird to South Africa's bakkie-obsessed market. The Hunter K50 REEV is a double-cab that uses a petrol engine only to charge its batteries, not to drive the wheels. It costs R799,900. And after driving it, reviewers say it's probably the strangest vehicle they've ever tested.

South Africans love their double-cabs. We're one of the most bakkie-dense countries on earth. The double-cab does school runs, weekend trips, and worksite duties. So when a newcomer like the Changan Hunter K50 REEV shows up, it has to compete with home-grown legends built in Silverton, Prospecton, and Gqeberha.

The Hunter K50 REEV packs a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that feeds a 31.2-kWh battery pack. Two electric motors — one on each axle — give total outputs of 200 kW and 470 Nm. On a full charge, it can run 145 km on electricity alone. Combined range is a claimed 1,000 km.

But here's where things get messy. The bakkie weighs over 300 kg more than a comparable diesel double-cab. That's because it carries batteries, two electric motors, the petrol engine, and a 70-litre fuel tank. That weight hurts ride quality, steering feel, and performance.

Acceleration is decent when the battery is full — 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. But that only lasts a short window. Once the battery depletes, the whole range-extender system falls apart. In Eco mode, the bakkie feels like the handbrake is stuck on. In Sport mode, the petrol engine runs constantly with a loud monotone. Normal mode offers the best balance, but the single-speed transmission still feels odd.

The interior looks okay at first glance but lacks substance. The leather is artificial, the digital displays have poor resolution, and the tech is glitchy. There's no adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist. Bluetooth and device mirroring don't work reliably.

Ground clearance is 220 mm, and towing capacity is 2.5 tonnes — presumably with a full battery. But the ride is harsh over speed bumps and rough roads. The heavy battery pack and electric motors make the suspension work hard.

Reviewers gave Changan credit for trying something new. Launching any bakkie in South Africa is brave. Bringing this level of unfamiliar tech to a diesel-dominated market is even bolder. But the Hunter K50 REEV suffers from what one reviewer called "genre confusion." Is it a sophisticated tech vehicle? A rugged workhorse? A fuel-sipping hybrid? It tries to be all three and doesn't nail any.

For now, the Hunter K50 REEV remains a curiosity. It might appeal to early adopters who want to stand out. But for most South Africans, the familiar diesel double-cab from established brands still makes more sense.