Earlier this year, the Dongfeng Z9 plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which is the twin of the Nissan Frontier Pro, was recognized by the Department of Energy (DOE) as an electrified vehicle. Based on the initial specs we saw, the Z9 PHEV will have a 1.5L turbocharged engine, an electric motor that can produce up to 435 PS, and will have a 32.86 kWh battery pack that gives it an all-electric range of up to 135 km based on the CLTC cycle.

With the DOE recognizing the Z9 as a plug-in hybrid pickup truck, it looks like we can expect the electrified vehicle to be offered in the country soon. However, we're unsure whether it will be offered by Dongfeng Philippines or by a gray market importer.

Fast forward to near the end of 2025, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has cleared the Dongfeng Z9 for the Philippine market. This comes after the agency released a new memorandum circular that detailed some of the specifications of the plug-in hybrid pickup.

For starters, the Dongfeng Z9 comes with a lithium-ternary battery pack that can be recharged via AC or DC fast charging. The former can fully recharge the battery in 4 to 5 hours, while the latter can do it in just 30 minutes. It also features a 1497cc gasoline engine, confirming the turbocharged 1.5L engine we mentioned earlier. It also has a maximum EV range of 135 km and an electric motor that puts out 156 kW or 212 PS.

Size-wise, the Dongfeng Z9 measures 5494mm long, 1950mm wide, 1960mm tall, has a 3300mm wheelbase, and comes with 240mm of ground clearance. Last but not least, the Z9 has a net payload capacity of 765 kg and is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels with 265/70 series tires.

With the LTO recently clearing the Dongfeng Z9 for the Philippine market, perhaps it might not be long before the electrified pickup is officially revealed or launched in the country. The only question now is, will it come directly from Dongfeng Philippines or from gray market dealers?