GWM Cannon 'travel car' turns heads

The boundary between luxury accommodation and off-road adventure vehicle has been thoroughly blurred with GWM's latest creation – a motorhome conversion based on the robust GWM Cannon Alpha ute platform that’s been on sale in Australia since May 2024.

Unveiled as part of GWM's expanding recreational vehicle strategy, this motorhome transforms the already capable Cannon Alpha ute into a comprehensive living space that sacrifices little in terms of comfort or practicality and maintains the vehicle's off-road capabilities.

Shown at the 2025 Shanghai motor show in China, it’s not clear if this factory-backed 'travel car' will be offered in Australia as a turn-key motorhome at this stage, but it’s a promising product that shows what can be done with the GWM Cannon Alpha platform.

Given the Chinese-built ute starts at $40,490 drive-away, undercutting most rivals, it could deliver an affordable product in the motorhome marketplace.

The motorhome's standout feature is its clever expanding body section that dramatically increases interior living space at the push of a button. Unlike traditional slide-outs that extend only partially, GWM's design allows for a substantial expansion that nearly doubles the interior footprint when stationary.

Key to this system's functionality are the dual hydraulic stabilising legs that automatically deploy and adjust to ensure the rig is level regardless of terrain.

Step inside the show-stopper and you'd be forgiven for thinking you've entered a high-end urban apartment rather than a vehicle designed for wilderness exploration.

There are quite a few features you don't often see in Aussie motorhomes, like fully reclining heated/cooled leather seats with programmable massage functions in the living area, and a high-definition projector system with automated drop-down screen for cinema-quality entertainment.

Other internal highlights include a compact washing machine, full-size fridge and freezer, shower and toilet and a spacious double bed with memory foam mattress.

Powered by a 135kW/480Nm 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine paired with a nine-speed auto, the 4x4 Cannon Alpha camper also gets a comprehensive smart-home automation system controlling lighting, climate, and entertainment.

The Cannon Alpha base vehicle also comes with a Borg Warner low-range transfer case and locking front and rear differentials for off-roading, while driver tech includes a 14.6-inch central touchscreen infotainment system, premium 10-speaker Infinity audio system, wireless phone charging, and heated/cooled Nappa leather-clad front seats.

GWM is yet to announce official pricing or Australian availability for the Cannon Alpha motorhome conversion.