Foton Mars 7, Mars 9 pickups could get 2.0L turbo-diesel hybrid for PH

Just before the holidays last year, Foton Motor Philippines Inc (FMPI) announced they were going to launch not one but two pickup trucks. They even released a teaser image of the two upcoming vehicles which somehow resemble a Dodge Ram and a Ford F-150.

Based on the teaser picture the automaker revealed, it looks like FMPI is set to launch the Mars 7 and Mars 9 pickup trucks. They're not your typical workhorses as Foton claims both vehicles benefit from hybrid technology. Moreover, both vehicles are full-size pickup trucks as they measure over 5.6 meters long.

At the time, Foton did not share any specifications about the two diesel-hybrid trucks. However, we were able to get insider information as to what the two vehicles could get under the hood. Recently, Foton was able to receive regulatory approval for two light-duty vehicles that come with an engine that displaces 1968cc which translates to 2.0-liters.

After cross-checking with what the Mars 7 and Mars 9 get in the PRC, both vehicles are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel Aucan engine that is likely the same one that powers the Thunder in PH. But as mentioned earlier, the two pickup trucks benefit from a 48V mild-hybrid system that provides additional power while under load as well as reduces carbon emissions.

In China, the diesel-hybrid engine makes a respectable 163 PS which is almost the same output as the regular 2.0-liter turbo-diesel Aucan found in the PH-spec Thunder. However, the hybrid version will reportedly make more torque and is rated to crank out 450 Nm of pull, 60 Nm more than the non-hybrid 2.0-liter diesel engine. As for its transmission, it will supposedly be mated to an 8-speed automatic by ZF.

Foton has yet to announce when will they reveal the Mars 7 and Mars 9 pickup trucks. Perhaps the automaker will hold its local debut at this year's Foton Big Show which could be slated to happen in Q1 of 2024. It may also make its debut at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show.

We'll be keeping our eyes and ears open for any new information about Foton's upcoming full-size pickup trucks.