The Legend Evolves: First Look at the All-New 212 Tanjingzhe 01 Pickup | 1500kg Towing | 2.3T Diesel

The "212" nameplate is legendary in the world of off-roading, carrying nearly 60 years of history as China's original military-grade workhorse. But today, the legend takes on a completely new form. Meet the 212 Tanjingzhe 01 (Explorer 01), a hardcore pickup truck that blends the iconic "retro-box" aesthetic of the T01 SUV with the undeniable utility of a professional-grade hauler. This isn't just a lifestyle truck for city streets; it’s a body-on-frame beast designed for those who need a vehicle that can work as hard as it plays.

Size and Presence: Commanding the Road
The first thing you notice about the Tanjingzhe 01 is its sheer scale. While the standard 212 SUV is compact and nimble, the pickup version has grown significantly to accommodate a serious cargo bed. Stretching over 5.46 meters in length with a massive 3,488mm wheelbase, the Tanjingzhe 01 has a presence that rivals the biggest names in the mid-size pickup segment.

Despite its size, it retains the classic 212 DNA: the signature "Three-Slot" grille, round LED headlights, and the rugged, upright stance. It’s a design that feels timeless—paying homage to its military ancestors while offering the modern amenities required for 2026. With a ground clearance of over 200mm and a specialized off-road chassis, this truck looks ready to tackle any terrain from the factory floor.

Diesel Power: The 2.3T Torque Monster
Under the hood, the Tanjingzhe 01 makes a bold choice that will delight off-road purists: a 2.3-liter Turbocharged Diesel engine. While many modern trucks are moving toward smaller gasoline engines, the 212 brand understands that for towing and heavy-duty off-roading, diesel is still king.

This 2.3T powerplant produces 140 kW (approx. 190 hp), but the real story is the torque. While official figures are being finalized, expectations are set for a peak torque output of around 450 Nm. This low-end grunt is what allows the Tanjingzhe 01 to boast a 3-ton towing capacity, making it perfect for hauling camper trailers, boats, or heavy equipment. Paired with a robust transmission and a part-time 4WD system (complete with low-range gearing), this truck is built to crawl through mud and climb steep inclines with ease.

Interior: Rugged Yet Refined
Inside, the Tanjingzhe 01 breaks away from its "bare-bones" history. It inherits the upgraded cabin from the T01 SUV, featuring a large floating touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster that displays vital off-road data like pitch, roll, and altitude. However, it doesn't lose its practical soul—there are still plenty of physical buttons and dials that can be operated with gloves on. The seats are designed for long-distance comfort, and the double-cab layout ensures that there is genuine room for five adults, making it as much a family adventure vehicle as it is a tool for the job site.

Final Thoughts: The Versatile Workhorse
The 212 Tanjingzhe 01 Pickup is a rare breed in today’s market. It successfully bridges the gap between a nostalgic heritage piece and a high-performance modern pickup. With its 5.4-meter length providing ample utility and the 2.3T diesel engine offering the reliability and torque needed for the wild, it stands as a unique alternative to more mainstream trucks. If you are looking for a vehicle with a "mechanical soul" that won't back down from a challenge, the Tanjingzhe 01 is officially the one to watch.

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