JMC Teshun
The JMC Teshun is a light commercial van manufactured by Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) in China, designed for passenger and cargo transport applications.[1] Introduced to the market in May 2017, the Teshun is based on the third-generation Ford Transit platform (2000–2014), which was previously produced by the Jiangling-Ford joint venture until late 2016.[1] It features a distinctive "Storm Trooper" front-end design with angular headlights and a bold grille, alongside updated interior elements including a modern dashboard, steering wheel, and infotainment system.[1] Available in multiple body styles such as passenger vans, cargo variants, low- and high-roof configurations, and short- or long-wheelbase options, the longest passenger model measures up to 5.5 meters and seats 15 individuals.[1] Powertrain options for the internal combustion engine (ICE) versions include a 2.4-liter petrol engine producing 136 horsepower and 200 Nm of torque, or a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine delivering 116 horsepower and 285 Nm of torque, both paired with a five-speed manual transmission.[1] An electric variant, the JMC Teshun EV, was first introduced in 2019 and updated with additional models in subsequent years; it employs a front-mounted electric motor rated at 163 horsepower (120 kW) and 320 Nm of torque, powered by a 65 kWh CATL battery pack offering up to 300 km of range under CLTC testing standards.[2] The EV measures 4,944 mm in length, 1,972 mm in width, and 2,215 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,835 mm and a curb weight of 2,090 kg.[2] As of 2017, pricing for ICE models started at 99,800 RMB (approximately 14,500 USD); as of 2023, the EV panel van was positioned at 279,000 RMB (about 40,620 USD), reflecting its advanced electric powertrain.[1][2] The model received updates in 2025 and remains in production.Overview
Introduction
The JMC Teshun is a light commercial van produced by Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) since May 2017.[1] It serves as a versatile vehicle combining elements of passenger vans and cargo options.[3] The Teshun is based on the fifth-generation Ford Transit platform originating from 1986, featuring rebadging and modifications such as a redesigned front fascia to suit Chinese consumer preferences and regulatory standards.[1] These adaptations allowed JMC to continue leveraging the proven platform after the end of licensing agreements for direct Ford production in China.[4] As the successor to the licensed Ford Transit in the Chinese market, the Teshun filled a gap following the introduction of newer Ford models, maintaining availability of an affordable, durable van option.[4] At its launch, prices ranged from 99,800 to 139,200 yuan, positioning it as a cost-effective choice for small businesses and logistics.[1] Assembly occurs at JMC's facility in Nanchang, China.[5] An electric variant, known as the JMC Jingma Fuyun EV, builds on the same platform for sustainable commercial applications.[6]Development History
The development of the JMC Teshun traces its origins to the long-standing partnership between Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) and Ford Motor Company, which began in 1996 when Ford acquired a stake in JMC and initiated joint production of the Ford Transit in China starting in 1997.[7] This collaboration focused on manufacturing the fifth-generation Ford Transit (introduced globally in 1986) and its facelifts, with JMC handling assembly and component supply at its Nanchang facility, continuing until the joint venture's production of the model ended in late 2016.[1] Following the cessation of Ford-branded Transit production, JMC transitioned to developing an independent successor, leveraging the established platform to create the Teshun as a rebadged and redesigned version tailored for the Chinese market.[1] The Teshun was officially launched on May 12, 2017, at an event in China, marking JMC's entry into producing a versatile light commercial vehicle with both cargo van and passenger variants to meet diverse commercial needs.[1] Priced between 99,800 and 139,200 yuan, the initial lineup emphasized affordability and practicality, powered by non-Ford engines such as a 2.4-liter Mitsubishi petrol and a 2.8-liter JMC diesel, both paired with a five-speed manual transmission.[1] For international markets, JMC introduced export-specific branding.[4] Production of the Teshun has continued uninterrupted through 2025 at JMC's Nanchang plant, with minor annual adjustments.[4] A key aspect of the Teshun's development was the deliberate retention of the retro design elements from the 1980s Ford Transit platform, including the boxy body structure and rear proportions, to capitalize on cost efficiencies from existing tooling and molds while maintaining market familiarity among users accustomed to the durable, proven architecture.[4] This approach allowed JMC to update only the front fascia and interior for modern appeal without overhauling the underlying chassis, balancing heritage with incremental improvements.[4]Design and Specifications
Body Styles and Dimensions
The JMC Teshun is offered in multiple body styles to suit various commercial and passenger needs, including short-wheelbase (SWB) variants with low-roof, mid-roof, and high-roof configurations, as well as a long-wheelbase (LWB) high-roof option, often available in passenger minibus or box-type cargo formats.[8] These configurations allow flexibility for urban delivery, logistics, or group transport, with the SWB models prioritizing maneuverability in tight spaces and the LWB extending cargo or seating capacity.[3] Key dimensions vary by variant, as summarized in the table below for representative configurations:| Variant | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SWB Low-roof | 4,944 | 1,972 | 2,025 | 2,835 |
| SWB Mid-roof | 4,944 | 1,972 | 2,215 | 2,835 |
| SWB High-roof | 4,944 | 1,972 | 2,480 | 2,835 |
| LWB High-roof | 5,696 | 1,972 | 2,480 | 3,570 |
Powertrains and Performance
The JMC Teshun offers a primary powertrain option for its internal combustion engine variants, both utilizing rear-wheel drive as standard to support its commercial van configuration. The diesel engine is a 2.8-liter turbocharged unit based on the 4JB1 design (JX493), producing 116 horsepower (85 kW) and 285 Nm of torque in earlier models, with later variants (from 2021) offering up to 122 horsepower (90 kW) and 300 Nm; these provide adequate low-end pull for loaded payloads typical of light commercial vehicles.[1][9] This engine is paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission, emphasizing reliability and simplicity in operation for fleet use. A 2.4-liter inline-four gasoline engine (4G69S4N) generating 136 horsepower (100 kW) and 200 Nm of torque was available until around 2022, with a focus on smoother urban driving compared to the diesel's torque emphasis.[1] Like the diesel, it connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox, ensuring consistent shifting characteristics across powertrains. The Teshun's design prioritizes durability for commercial use. Fuel efficiency for diesel variants is officially rated at 6.6 L/100 km in combined driving conditions as of 2023 models.[11] These attributes make the Teshun suitable for regional logistics where efficiency and torque are key.Interior and Safety Features
The interior of the JMC Teshun features a practical layout designed for commercial use, with a dashboard incorporating analog gauges and an optional infotainment screen for basic navigation and media functions.[1] The cabin includes a three-spoke multi-functional steering wheel, which is adjustable for driver comfort, and bench seating configurations that accommodate up to 15 passengers in longer variants, tying into the available body styles for flexible multi-passenger or cargo setups.[1][12] Comfort options emphasize functionality in higher trims, including standard air conditioning for climate control, power windows and locks for ease of use, and textile fabric seats for durability in daily operations.[13] The interior employs durable materials such as vinyl accents and fabric upholstery suited to commercial demands, paired with basic sound insulation to minimize road noise without compromising on cost-effectiveness.[12] Safety equipment prioritizes essential protections, with standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) to enhance braking stability, alongside dual front airbags and seatbelt reminders for occupant protection.[13] Higher trims may include optional rear parking sensors and electronic stability control to assist in maneuvering and handling, while features like tire pressure monitoring and ISOFIX child seat interfaces provide additional safeguards.[13][12] Cargo variants support a payload capacity of up to 1,750 kg, ensuring safe load distribution without exceeding structural limits.[14]Model Updates
2020 Facelift
The 2020 facelift of the JMC Teshun introduced targeted updates to the light commercial van, focusing on emissions compliance, seating versatility, and model availability while building on the established platform from earlier iterations. Launched in August 2020, the refreshed lineup expanded options for passenger-oriented configurations.[15][16] A key addition was the 9-seater configuration for passenger vans, available in long-wheelbase mid-roof variants, enhancing capacity for multi-passenger transport needs. This option complemented the existing cargo and fewer-seat layouts, with dimensions measuring approximately 5,696 mm in length, 1,972 mm in width, and 2,240 mm in height for the 9-seater model.[17][18] The powertrain saw refinement in the 2.8L turbo diesel engine (JX493), now delivering 116 horsepower (85 kW) and 285 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This upgrade ensured compliance with China's National V and VI emission standards, improving environmental performance without altering the core displacement or layout.[16][19] Pricing for the facelifted models started at around 105,000 yuan for base variants, extending up to 145,000 yuan depending on emissions standard and equipment, positioning it competitively in the domestic market.[20]2021 Facelift
The 2021 facelift of the JMC Teshun introduced a refreshed exterior design, primarily centered on the front fascia to modernize its appearance while retaining the van's practical proportions. The updated front end featured a more aggressive grille with integrated sharp-edged headlights, creating a bolder and more contemporary look compared to the pre-facelift model. This redesign aimed to enhance visual appeal for urban and commercial users without altering the overall body structure.[21][22] A notable addition was the Taurus Edition (known as Jinniu Edition in Chinese markets), which differentiated itself through premium styling elements including gold accents on the badges, enhanced chrome trim around the grille and headlights, and subtle interior gold detailing for a luxurious touch in select configurations. This special edition targeted buyers seeking a upscale variant within the commercial lineup. The powertrain was updated from the 2020 model, with the 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine now producing 122 horsepower (90 kW) and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission; minor efficiency optimizations were applied through software tuning to slightly improve fuel economy under standard driving conditions.[23][24][9] Interior updates focused on select trims with an upgraded infotainment system, incorporating Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, alongside basic multimedia controls via a central display. These enhancements improved connectivity for fleet operators and daily commuters. The facelift sustained sales momentum in competitive segments due to its cost-performance ratio and reliability in urban commercial applications.[9][25]2025 Updates
The 2025 model year of the JMC Teshun brought minor revisions primarily aimed at regulatory compliance and subtle enhancements for continued production viability. These updates ensured adherence to China VI emission standards.[26] Engine optimizations focused on the 2.8L turbo diesel, achieving slight efficiency gains through ECU remapping, with the engine producing 90 kW and 300 Nm of torque. Combined fuel consumption is approximately 11 L/100 km. No major mechanical overhauls were implemented, emphasizing reliability over performance shifts.[26] Carryover models incorporating these tweaks were launched in early 2025, evolving incrementally from the 2021 facelift by prioritizing compliance and minor tech upgrades over aesthetic redesigns.[26]Electric Variant
JMC Jingma Fuyun EV Specifications
The JMC Jingma Fuyun EV, produced by JMC Jingma Automobile Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Jiangling Motors Corporation, was launched in February 2023 as the electric variant of the Teshun commercial van, utilizing the pre-2021 facelift body design for its structure.[27] This model shares its overall body dimensions and seating flexibility with the internal combustion engine versions of the long-wheelbase Teshun, measuring 5,496 mm in length, 1,972 mm in width, and 2,240 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,570 mm and accommodating 6 to 9 passengers depending on configuration.[27] The powertrain consists of a single rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous electric motor rated at 120 kW (163 hp) and 320 Nm of torque.[27][28] It pairs with a lithium iron phosphate battery supplied by CATL, with a capacity of 85.89 kWh that delivers an estimated range of 345 km under the CLTC testing cycle.[27][29] Performance metrics emphasize practicality for commercial use, with a top speed limited to 120 km/h.[29]| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Power | 120 kW (163 hp) |
| Motor Torque | 320 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 85.89 kWh (lithium iron phosphate, CATL) |
| Range (CLTC) | 345 km |
| Top Speed | 120 km/h |
| Length | 5,496 mm (LWB basis) |
| Seating Capacity | 6–9 seats |