JAC T8 refined, but still under scalpel

The prototype JAC T8 Nighthawk – the only one available on the African continent – has arrived in Namibia after a brief visit to South Africa, where it underwent high-temperature and durability tests.

According to motor trade expert Karl-Heinz Eisenberg, the changes and modifications to the vehicle are not merely cosmetic, but practical.

The prototype is in Namibia for a test drive and to assess market interest among potential clients.

The T8 Nighthawk is equipped with a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo diesel engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission – a feature long requested by drivers who prefer the practicality and reliability of manual gearboxes, especially in tough terrain.

“The engine is still in its crude concept phase and not yet in its finished form,” Eisenberg says.

Although little is currently known about the car’s full specifications, the Nighthawk has already covered several kilometres around Gobabis in the Omaheke region.

The area was selected for its extreme heat and variety of road conditions, including loose sand and rocky stretches. Thanks to its factory-fitted suspension, the vehicle performed impressively across all terrains.

“The suspension is marvellous. One would think it’s hard, but on the contrary, it’s very comfortable and a serious upgrade from the standard JAC suspension,” Eisenberg says.

Adding to its off-road capability and rugged appearance, the vehicle comes standard with front and rear steel bumpers, red recovery points fixed to the chassis, and space to fit a winch at the front. The bumpers not only offer protection from minor collisions, but also improve the vehicle’s approach and departure angles.

A snorkel fitted on the right side enhances the vehicle’s appearance and practicality in sandy and dusty driving conditions.

Contrary to popular belief, a snorkel is not primarily for water crossings, but for improved air intake in harsh environments.

“Since this is still a pre-production vehicle, there’s a lot to figure out. But that’s part of the process – we get to see how it develops and give feedback to improve the final product,” Eisenberg says.

He says public input will play a key role in determining how well the new, Chinese-designed and -built T8 is received.

It remains uncertain when the vehicle will be ready for the market, as further testing will continue – possibly for up to a year.

For now, Namibia will play a significant role in the development of the JAC T8 Nighthawk, Eisenberg says.

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