GWM Malaysia has introduced the 2026 GWM Tank 500 HEV, with the latest model gaining enhanced smartphone connectivity designed to make everyday ownership more convenient.
Rather than introduce major mechanical changes, the update focuses on how owners interact with the SUV when they are away from it. The new connected functions cover three main areas: remote vehicle control, vehicle monitoring, and location & security alerts.
Stan Li Hao, Managing Director, Commercial Operations of GWM Malaysia, said, “At GWM, we continuously look at how technology can bring greater value and convenience to our customers’ everyday lives. The 2026 GWM TANK 500 HEV builds on the strengths of our flagship SUV with enhanced connected capabilities that give owners greater control, visibility and reassurance, wherever they are.”
More Functionality Via Smartphone
Through the GWM Intelligent Application, owners can remotely start or stop the engine and operate the air-conditioning before entering the vehicle.
The system can also schedule the air-conditioning to start at a preferred time, while the air purifier and seat ventilation can be activated remotely. This is particularly useful in Malaysia, where preparing the cabin before getting into a parked vehicle can make a noticeable difference.
The app also allows owners to remotely lock or unlock the doors, check the status of the windows and sunroof, and close them remotely if they have been left open.
Monitor From Anywhere
The enhanced connectivity also provides a wider range of vehicle information through the smartphone application.
Owners can remotely check the engine status, remaining driving range, fuel level and total mileage, as well as the tyre pressure and temperature of all four wheels.
The application can issue alerts for abnormal tyre pressure or temperature, while notifications are also provided when the fuel level or 12V battery level is low.
The status of the doors, windows and sunroof can similarly be checked remotely, with alerts issued if a door is not fully closed or a window has been left open.
You can also see the current status of the climate control, air purifier and seat ventilation systems.
Location Tracking And Geofencing
The 2026 Tank 500 HEV can also be located through the application, with owners able to remotely activate the horn and hazard lights to help find the SUV in a crowded car park.
Further, a geofencing function allows a virtual boundary to be established around a selected area. An alert will be sent to the owner if the vehicle leaves that designated area.
The system also supports vehicle access sharing with another user, while GPS location settings provide owners with greater control over the vehicle’s location services.
GWM states that the availability and operation of the connected functions are subject to network coverage, application compatibility and applicable terms and conditions.
Roslan Abdullah, Chief Operating Officer of GWM Malaysia, said, “The ownership experience extends beyond the time spent behind the wheel. Whether preparing the cabin before a journey, checking tyre conditions or confirming that the doors and windows are secured, these enhanced connected features make everyday interactions with the GWM TANK 500 HEV more seamless, convenient and reassuring.”
2.0-Litre Turbo Hybrid Powertrain
Beyond the connectivity upgrades, the 2026 GWM Tank 500 HEV retains its existing 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain, together with its premium comfort, safety and intelligent driving technologies.
GWM positions the Tank 500 HEV as a flagship SUV capable of handling both everyday urban driving and more demanding terrain, combining its hybrid powertrain with genuine all-terrain capability.
The ownership package remains comprehensive and includes:
- Lifetime warranty on the engine, transmission and HEV system for first-hand private owners
- 8 years/200,000 km warranty for the power battery
- 6-year unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty
- 5 years of free maintenance
2026 GWM Tank 500 HEV available now
The 2026 GWM Tank 500 HEV is now available at selected GWM dealerships nationwide.
GWM Malaysia is also running its Merdeka and Hari Malaysia customer campaign from 1 August to 30 September 2026. Customers who book a new GWM vehicle during the campaign and complete registration by 30 September will be eligible for a chance to win up to RM1,000 in toll cashback (six winners).
GWM is also offering limited-time savings of up to RM30,000 on selected models during August, while every new GWM vehicle purchase comes with five years of free service maintenance.
CarTok Editor’s Note
The Tank 500 HEV’s latest update is about making a premium SUV easier to live with.
Remote climate control, seat ventilation and air purification are useful functions for Malaysians, while tyre monitoring, low-fuel and 12V battery alerts address practical concerns. The addition of geofencing and vehicle-location functions also makes the smartphone application more than just a remote-start tool.
