The GWM Cannon Alpha, available with hybrid and diesel powertrains, underwent the full suite of local crash and on-track performance tests bolstering the list of five-star options in the popular Utility segment. The first ever alternative-powered ute tested and rated by ANCAP SAFETY has scored five stars.
GWM Cannon Alpha Crash Test
In crash testing, the Cannon Alpha displayed similar levels of performance to other dual cab utes tested against 2023-2025 rating criteria.
The Cannon Alpha achieved full points for protection of the driver in the side impact test, and front passenger in the frontal offset (MPDB) test. Yet as a large and heavy vehicle, its overall performance in the frontal offset test was tempered by its risk to occupants of a struck vehicle with the maximum 8.00 point out of 8.00 vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility penalty applied.
Child Occupant Protection
For Child Occupant Protection (COP), the GWM Cannon Alpha has equalled the top COP score recorded against current assessment criteria. Matching its SUV sibling, the GWM Tank 500, with a score of 93%.
Full points were awarded for both child dummies in the frontal offset (head-on) and side impact (T-bone) crash tests. Technology-wise, the Cannon Alpha also scored well in this area of assessment. Owing to its direct child protection detection system which provides the driver with audible and text-based notifications if a child is inadvertently left within the vehicle.
The Cannon Alpha’s active collision avoidance capability also scored well. Which assists in minimising the risk of collision with either a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist or other vehicle. Overall performance in emergency lane-keeping and braking intervention scenarios tested by ANCAP was good.
“This rating marks a significant step for the popular Utility segment. The GWM Cannon Alpha being the first hybrid ute to achieve a five-star ANCAP safety rating. ” said ANCAP Chief Executive Officer, Carla Hoorweg.
“GWM and its vehicle designs have improved markedly over the past decade. This five-star result for the Cannon Alpha is evidence of this,” Ms Hoorweg added.
The safety rating for the Cannon Alpha applies to the 2.0 litre petrol hybrid and 2.4 litre diesel variants. Full details can be viewed at GWM Cannon Alpha ANCAP.
