The Maxus T90 pickup is moving away from its electric-only roots and expanding its lineup with the introduction of a diesel-powered option, according to recent reports.
Maxus will fit the 163hp 2.0-litre diesel engine from the Deliver 9 van into the T90 pickup, according to a report in Parkers
. This new engine will be paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and include four-wheel drive — a feature not available in the electric version. The diesel variant will have a payload capacity of 1,050 kg, ensuring it remains above the vital 1,000kg threshold for VAT reclamation once a canopy is fitted.
Mark Barratt, director of group franchises at Harris Maxus, has indicated that this move is a response to customer feedback rather than a shift away from their commitment to electric vehicles. According to Barrett, the company has engaged with customers and dealers, who have raised concerns primarily related to the infrastructure for electric vehicles. Introducing a diesel option is intended to address these concerns and support the dealer network.
However, Barrett emphasised that the diesel T90 is not seen as a significant driver of sales growth. Instead, it aims to cater to customers not yet ready to transition to electric vehicles, keeping them within the Maxus brand until they feel more comfortable making the switch, particularly as charging infrastructure improves.
Last year, Maxus registered more than 6,000 vehicles in the UK, including the Maxus T90EV pickup, over two-thirds of which were electric.
