Thinkerbell Combines Cars and Spas With 'The Carpool' For GWM

GWM has unveiled a world-first innovation to launch its new Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid: The Carpool, a heated, bubbling spa bath that fits in the rear tray and runs entirely off the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEVs class leading 37.1kwH EV battery and vehicles to load (V2L) capability. With the ability to heat and bubble all day, The Carpool turns any destination into a luxury escape, letting drivers soak up Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of their personal hot tub.

This uniquely Australian twist on electric vehicle utility was launched at Burleigh Heads during the World Surf League this month, overlooking the iconic surf break and capturing the spirit of adventure with a touch of indulgence.

Steve Maciver, head of marketing and communications at GWM, said, “GWM’s new Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid is the perfect embodiment of our promise, ‘Go With More’. It’s an amazing combination of the tough capability needed on and off Australian roads and innovative technology, with class leading plug-in technology allowing users to power external appliances (such as the GWM CarPool)."

Tom Wenborn, chief creative tinker at Thinkerbell, said, “Equipped with features typically reserved for premium luxury vehicles, the Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid redefines what it means to explore off the beaten track. To celebrate its forthcoming launch we thought it only fitting that we brought its cutting-edge technology to life with just one more thing... bubbles."

Following hundreds of enquiries from consumers during the Gold Coast Pro 2025, the Carpool prototype will now enter a new phase of R&D with hopes of bringing a low cost, highly portable accessory for the Cannon Alpha Plug-in Hybrid to market in late 2025.