GWM has introduced a new development program aimed at tailoring its vehicles more closely to Australian and New Zealand driving conditions, with the first models now arriving in local showrooms.

Known as AT-1, the initiative centres on refining ride, handling and overall driving behaviour using local testing and engineering input, rather than relying solely on global development programs. The approach is being led by GWM’s Australian engineering team, headed by industry veteran Rob Trubiani (below).

The move reflects a broader push by carmakers to localise vehicle tuning for specific markets, particularly in regions like Australia where road conditions and usage can vary widely.

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AT-1 is not a single update or model-specific change, but an ongoing development process that feeds into multiple vehicles. It focuses on areas such as suspension calibration, steering feel, driver assistance systems and towing performance, with the aim of making vehicles better suited to real-world use.

The first model to adopt the program is the Haval H6, which has undergone extensive local testing and calibration. According to GWM, engineers developed multiple variants of suspension and steering setups to suit different powertrains and driveline configurations.

That process involved dozens of damper calibrations and thousands of individual adjustments to steering systems, highlighting the level of detail involved in adapting vehicles for local conditions.

Rather than delivering a one-off improvement, the AT-1 program is designed as a continuous loop, with vehicles refined over time based on feedback and further testing.

Trubiani, who previously held senior roles at Holden and HSV, has been central to shaping the program. In a recent interview with Wheels, he outlined the importance of tuning vehicles on Australian roads, noting that local conditions often expose weaknesses not seen in global testing environments.

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His involvement signals a shift for GWM, which is increasingly positioning its Australian operation as more than just a sales market, but also as a contributor to global vehicle development.

Insights gathered through the AT-1 program are expected to feed back into GWM’s broader engineering efforts, influencing future models beyond the local market.

As competition intensifies, particularly among emerging brands, localised tuning programs such as AT-1 may become an increasingly important differentiator for buyers.