JAC t9 completes challenging Keokradong journey

Bangladesh's hilly regions continue to attract increasing numbers of travellers, particularly in the post-lockdown period as domestic tourism gains momentum.

Destinations such as Sajek, Bandarban and Boga Lake have become popular choices for those seeking natural scenery and adventure.

Keokradong, the country's highest motorable road at 3,235 feet above sea level, reopened to visitors in October 2025 after being closed for several years. Renowned for its misty scenery and challenging terrain, access to Keokradong has long been difficult owing to steep, narrow and uneven roads that are unsuitable for regular cars or motorcycles.

Traditionally, most tourists rely on Chander Gari, the open-roof jeeps commonly used in the hill tracts. While these vehicles are iconic, safety concerns have persisted over the years, with several accidents highlighting the risks associated with travelling on steep hill roads.

Against this backdrop, the JAC T9, a four-wheel-drive pick-up from JAC Motors, was recently introduced in Bangladesh by Rancon Global Trucks Ltd, the brand's official manufacturer and distributor. The vehicle recently completed a challenging journey to Keokradong, demonstrating its performance and reliability on rugged mountain roads.

The expedition was undertaken by the Rancon Global Trucks team along with travel influencer The Outsider. Two JAC T9 pick-ups travelled from Dhaka to the Keokradong peak and back. Videos from the journey showed the vehicles navigating steep climbs, muddy tracks and rocky paths with stability and control.

According to company information, the JAC T9 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine producing 168 kW of power and 410 Nm of torque. The vehicle features a four-wheel-drive system for improved traction on rough terrain and has a payload capacity of over 1,000 kilograms. It also includes a leather interior, a 10.4-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and safety features such as ABS, EBD, and ESP.

The JAC T9 is priced at Tk46.5 lakh, according to the company.

Commenting on the journey, Shawn Hakim, Managing Director of Rancon Global Trucks Ltd, said the company remains focused on introducing globally recognised vehicles suitable for Bangladesh's diverse road conditions.

Industry observers noted that the successful journey suggests destinations previously considered difficult to access, such as Keokradong, may become more approachable for families and casual travellers with capable vehicles, potentially supporting safer and more inclusive domestic tourism. Rancon Global Trucks recently opened its flagship JAC showroom in Tejgaon, offering bookings and test drives.