The GWM Cannon is used across Australia as a work ute, family vehicle, touring platform and weekend adventure vehicle. However, leaving the tub open can expose tools, luggage, camping equipment and everyday shopping to rain, dust and unwanted attention.
A well-fitted roller cover transforms the open tub into a more practical and protected storage area while preserving the clean, streamlined appearance of the vehicle.
Choosing a roller cover is not simply a matter of selecting the lowest-priced option. GWM Cannon owners should consider vehicle compatibility, construction, operation, drainage, security, accessory integration and installation quality.
This buying guide explains what to look for and how to choose between an electric and manual GWM Cannon roller cover.
Why Install a Roller Cover on a GWM Cannon?
A roller cover, sometimes called a roller shutter or retractable tonneau cover, uses interlocking slats that retract into a canister positioned near the front of the ute tub.
Unlike a fixed hard lid, the cover can be opened to provide access to most of the tub. This is useful when carrying tall equipment, bulky camping gear, furniture or supplies that would not fit beneath a permanently closed lid.
The main benefits include:
- Better protection for tools, luggage and equipment
- Improved resistance to rain, dust and direct sunlight
- A lockable barrier over the tub
- Convenient access to the cargo area
- A cleaner and more finished vehicle appearance
- Compatibility with selected racks, sports bars and platforms
- Greater flexibility than many fixed hard lids
Not Just 4x4’s vehicle-specific GWM Cannon electric roller shutter is made from heavy-duty aluminium with a matte-black powder-coated finish. It is designed for the ute tub and includes electric opening and closing through a push-button or remote-control system.
Electric vs Manual GWM Cannon Roller Covers
One of the first decisions is whether to choose an electric or manual roller cover.
Both options cover the tub and improve cargo protection, but the opening method, convenience and price are different.
Electric Roller Cover
An electric roller cover uses a 12-volt motor to open and close the shutter. The Not Just 4x4 electric model can be operated by remote control and takes approximately seven to ten seconds to complete a full opening or closing cycle.
An electric option may be better for owners who:
- Open the tub several times each day
- Regularly carry tools or equipment
- Want remote-controlled access
- Frequently load the vehicle while carrying other items
- Prefer a more premium and convenient setup
- Use the ute for both work and personal travel
The remote operation can be particularly useful for tradies, campers and families loading the vehicle in wet weather.
Manual Roller Cover
A manual roller cover is opened and closed by hand. It offers the same basic retractable format without relying on an electric motor or control system.
A manual model may suit owners who:
- Want a simpler operating system
- Use the tub less frequently
- Prefer a lower initial purchase price
- Do not require remote-controlled access
- Want fewer electrical components in the setup
On 13 July 2026, Not Just 4x4 listed its manual GWM Cannon roller shutter at $1,150, while the electric model was listed at $1,590. Prices and promotions can change, so customers should check the current product pages before ordering.
Electric and Manual Roller Cover Comparison
| Consideration | Electric Roller Cover | Manual Roller Cover |
|---|---|---|
| Operation | Motorised push-button or remote control | Opened and closed by hand |
| Convenience | High | Practical and straightforward |
| Best suited to | Frequent tub access | Occasional or general use |
| Electrical connection | Required | Not required |
| Maintenance | Includes motor and electrical components | Simpler mechanical system |
| Current listed price* | $1,590 | $1,150 |
| Warranty | 12 months | 12 months |
*Prices reviewed on 13 July 2026 and subject to change.
1. Confirm the Exact Vehicle Fitment
Correct fitment is the most important consideration when buying a GWM Cannon roller cover.
A universal product may not align correctly with the tub rails, tailgate, liner or factory accessories. Poor alignment can lead to movement, difficult operation, excess noise and gaps around the cover.
The Not Just 4x4 electric roller cover is currently listed as suitable for the GWM Cannon from 2019 to current models. The manual product page also identifies compatibility with the GWM Cannon from 2019 onwards.
Before purchasing, confirm:
- Vehicle model
- Build year
- Cab and tub configuration
- Whether the vehicle is a Cannon or Cannon Alpha
- Factory or aftermarket tub liner
- Existing sports bar or sailplane
- Tub rack, roof platform or canopy plans
- Any non-standard tub modifications
Not Just 4x4 lists some Cannon Alpha roller covers separately from standard Cannon products. Owners should therefore confirm the exact model rather than assuming every Cannon cover will fit every Alpha configuration.
Providing photographs of the vehicle and tub to the supplier can help identify possible compatibility issues before installation.
2. Look for Vehicle-Specific Construction
The roller cover should follow the dimensions and shape of the GWM Cannon tub.
The Not Just 4x4 electric cover uses heavy-duty aluminium construction and a powder-coated matte-black finish. Its product information describes vehicle-specific mounting rather than a universal installation system.
Aluminium is commonly selected for roller shutters because it provides a useful balance between strength, corrosion resistance and manageable weight.
When comparing products, examine:
- Slat material and thickness
- Quality of the powder-coated finish
- Strength of the side rails
- Canister construction
- Locking components
- Rubber seals
- Drainage channels and hoses
- Replacement-part availability
The product should feel secure when closed, operate smoothly and sit evenly along both sides of the tub.
3. Understand Weather Resistance
A roller cover should improve weather protection, but buyers should be cautious of claims that a ute tub will become completely waterproof.
Water can potentially enter through the tailgate, factory tub openings, drainage areas or gaps created by accessories. A well-designed cover should manage rain through sealing and drainage rather than relying on the top surface alone.
Not Just 4x4 describes its electric GWM Cannon cover as weather resistant and fitted with a multi-point rubber sealing system. Its published specifications refer to water and dust resistance equivalent to IPX4 testing.
Before buying, ask:
- Are drainage hoses included?
- Where does water drain from the canister?
- Are the side rails sealed?
- Does installation require changes to the tub liner?
- Is the tailgate area sealed separately?
- What level of water entry is considered normal?
- How should the drains be cleaned?
Even with a quality cover, electronics, documents and moisture-sensitive items should be stored in sealed containers during severe weather or off-road travel.
4. Evaluate Security Features
A roller cover creates a stronger physical barrier than an uncovered tub or many soft tonneau covers.
The electric GWM Cannon roller cover uses interlocking aluminium slats and a locking system that engages when the cover is closed. The shutter sits along the tub rails to create an enclosed storage area when used with the vehicle’s tailgate.
Useful security features include:
- Interlocking aluminium slats
- Automatic or mechanical locking
- Secure side rails
- Tamper-resistant mounting points
- Tailgate compatibility
- Manual override for an electric system
A roller cover improves deterrence, but it should not be treated as a replacement for secure toolboxes, insurance or sensible storage practices. High-value items should not be left visible or stored unattended for extended periods.
5. Consider How Often You Access the Tub
Daily use should influence the choice between electric and manual operation.
An electric roller cover may save time for a tradesperson who opens the tub repeatedly throughout the day. Remote control can also make loading easier when carrying boxes, groceries, sports equipment or camping gear.
The electric system listed by Not Just 4x4 has a remote-control range of up to approximately 20 metres and a full-cycle operating time of around seven to ten seconds.
A manual cover may be entirely suitable when the tub is opened only occasionally. It can also appeal to owners who prefer a mechanically simpler setup without a motor, wiring or remote-control batteries.
The best option is not necessarily the most expensive one. It is the one that matches how the vehicle is used.
6. Check Accessory Compatibility
Many Australian ute owners add several accessories over time. A roller cover should therefore be considered as part of the complete tub setup.
Not Just 4x4 states that its electric roller cover includes mounting tracks that can support compatible:
- Tub racks
- Roof platforms
- Roof racks
- Sports bars
- Roll bars
- Selected aluminium canopies
This can allow owners to carry items such as ladders, kayaks, camping equipment or rooftop accessories while retaining a covered tub.
However, compatibility does not mean every accessory can be attached directly without additional brackets.
Before ordering, check:
- Whether the existing sports bar must be removed or relocated.
- Whether a relocation bracket is available.
- Whether the rack feet match the roller-cover tracks.
- The permitted static and dynamic load limits.
- Whether the canister reduces usable tub space.
- Whether future canopy or rack plans will affect the installation.
Not Just 4x4 lists a separate sports-bar relocation bracket in its GWM Cannon accessory range, which indicates that some factory configurations may require an additional component.
7. Review Load Ratings Carefully
Some roller covers include tracks that can support racks or accessories, but the cover surface itself should not automatically be treated as a load-bearing platform.
Not Just 4x4 publishes a distributed load figure of up to 80 kilograms for its electric GWM Cannon shutter when the weight is correctly supported through the mounting tracks.
Buyers should distinguish between:
- Weight placed directly on the shutter slats
- Weight supported by side tracks
- Dynamic load while driving
- Static load while parked
- Combined rack, tent and equipment weight
Never assume that the advertised load figure allows people to stand or sleep directly on the roller cover. Ask the supplier to confirm the approved rack configuration and load limits for the intended use.
8. Decide Between DIY and Professional Installation
Correct installation affects operation, drainage, alignment and long-term reliability.
A DIY installation may involve measuring, drilling, fitting rails, connecting drainage hoses and, for an electric model, completing a safe 12-volt electrical connection. Not Just 4x4 estimates approximately three to five hours for DIY installation of its electric roller shutter and recommends professional installation for owners who are not confident drilling or wiring the vehicle.
Professional installation is generally the safer choice when:
- The product requires electrical wiring
- The tub has a thick aftermarket liner
- Existing accessories must be relocated
- Precise drilling is required
- Drainage needs to be modified
- The owner wants the system tested before collection
Not Just 4x4 provides or coordinates fitment services in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, with additional workshop cooperation mentioned for Brisbane. The company advises that installation time depends on the product and that some fitment work may require the vehicle for a full day or overnight.
9. Examine the Warranty and Support
A roller cover includes moving parts, seals, locks and, in electric models, a motor and control system. Local technical support can therefore be as important as the product itself.
Not Just 4x4 lists a 12-month warranty for both its electric and manual GWM Cannon roller covers. The electric product information states that motor and control-box components are covered under the same 12-month warranty.
Before purchasing, ask:
- Does the warranty cover parts and labour?
- Is labour covered only when professionally installed?
- Who pays return freight?
- Are replacement slats, remotes and motors available?
- Does DIY installation affect coverage?
- How are interstate warranty claims handled?
- What maintenance is required to preserve the warranty?
The published electric-cover information indicates parts-and-labour coverage when installed by Not Just 4x4, with parts-only coverage for DIY installations. Customers should confirm the current warranty terms before ordering.
10. Plan for Routine Maintenance
A roller cover should be cleaned and checked regularly, particularly after driving through mud, sand or heavy dust.
Basic maintenance may include:
- Removing debris from the side rails
- Cleaning drainage outlets and hoses
- Washing dust from the shutter slats
- Checking mounting bolts
- Inspecting rubber seals
- Testing the lock and manual override
- Replacing remote-control batteries
- Checking electrical connections
- Following the supplier’s lubrication instructions
Avoid applying heavy grease unless specifically recommended. Grease can trap dust and grit, which may interfere with smooth movement.
Who Should Choose an Electric Roller Cover?
An electric GWM Cannon roller cover is likely to suit:
- Tradies who access tools throughout the day
- Owners who regularly load groceries or family equipment
- Touring drivers who want convenient campsite access
- Buyers seeking a premium vehicle upgrade
- Drivers who value remote-controlled operation
- Owners combining a roller cover with racks or platforms
The additional cost may be worthwhile when the convenience is used every day.
Who Should Choose a Manual Roller Cover?
A manual GWM Cannon roller cover may suit:
- Owners working within a lower budget
- Drivers who access the tub less frequently
- Buyers who prefer mechanical simplicity
- Vehicles used mainly for occasional recreation
- Owners who do not want additional electrical wiring
- Drivers seeking practical protection without powered operation
For many ute owners, a quality manual cover provides the required protection without unnecessary complexity.
GWM Cannon Roller Cover Buying Checklist
Before placing an order, confirm:
- Exact GWM model and build year
- Cannon or Cannon Alpha configuration
- Tub dimensions and liner type
- Electric or manual operation
- Drainage and weather-sealing design
- Locking method
- Canister size and lost tub space
- Sports-bar compatibility
- Rack and platform compatibility
- Static and dynamic load ratings
- Installation requirements
- Warranty coverage
- Availability of replacement parts
- Shipping cost
- Local installation options
Do not order based only on a product photograph. Vehicle-specific confirmation can prevent expensive fitment problems.
Not Just 4x4 Fitment Locations
Not Just 4x4 offers professional fitment services through the following listed locations:
Melbourne
5–7 Redwood Drive
Notting Hill VIC 3168
Sydney
12 Homepride Avenue
Warwick Farm NSW 2170
Adelaide
2/257 Hanson Road
Wingfield SA 5013
The company recommends confirming availability and booking installation before visiting.
Contact Not Just 4x4
Phone: 0431 097 888
Email: info@notjust4x4.com.au
Main workshop: 5–7 Redwood Drive, Notting Hill VIC 3168
Customers can contact the team to confirm model fitment, installation requirements, accessory compatibility and Australia-wide shipping before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
The right GWM Cannon roller cover should provide more than a clean appearance. It should improve how the ute functions every day.
An electric roller cover offers push-button convenience and is well suited to owners who access the tub frequently. A manual model provides a simpler and more affordable alternative for drivers who want practical protection without electrical operation.
Whichever option you choose, correct vehicle fitment should remain the priority. Confirm the model, year, tub liner, sports bar and future rack plans before placing an order. It is also important to review drainage, load limits, warranty terms and installation requirements rather than comparing products by price alone.
With a vehicle-specific product and professional installation, a GWM Cannon roller cover can create a more secure, weather-resistant and versatile tub for work, touring and everyday Australian driving.
